For the July Issue of the ‘Clairence Project’
Buried in Greece is a Cinematic Treasure Trove
Where the set location takes centre stage
From the sunny musical spectacular “Mamma Mia!” (2008), to the famed beach-set romance “Before Midnight” (2013), the enchanting, blue oasis that is Greece, has been host to many film favourites.
Undeniably, setting plays a crucial role in curating the overall look and feel of a film. With the continual evolution of film technology, there has naturally been an uprise in virtual production; the heavy use of green screen sets, VFX and computer-generated imagery (CGI) can sometimes birth a final product that feels awfully contrived. However, when used tactically, we have had films like “Avatar” (2009) and “The Matrix” (1999) grace our screens, which command these virtual techniques to inspire an alternate reality; yet outside of these fantastical genres, in films grounded in our reality, these techniques can be ineffective. With location shooting, arguably comes an air of authenticity that can really aid realistic storytelling. It is for a similar reason many filmmakers continue to shoot film than digital; there is a depth and distinguishing filmic look that digital simply cannot capture.
In the Greece-set “Mamma Mia!”, audiences are quickly drawn in by the visual splendour of the natural landscape. White-sand beaches adjoining lush greenery roll out like a carpet to the glittering azure ocean, which strike an impressive contrast against stark white buildings. The Greek island, Skopelos, offers an entrancing backdrop for the film’s narrative, but its presence, subtle or overt, in every frame, contributes more to the story than is perceived; intense blues, whites and greens, all bathed in this glorious golden glow are central characters to the film. The location upon which a film establishes itself can dictate its entire atmosphere and mood, helping to convey the intended themes of the film and steer the audience’s experience in line with the director’s vision.
The distinctive “Mamma Mia!” blue weaves its way into every frame, noticeably through setting, but also through costume. Its Academy Award-winning costume designer, Ann Roth, expressed “[the costuming] must float over [the audience] and they must love it.” Well executed costume lends the audience small insights into a character’s psyche, revealing hidden truths that cannot be conveyed in dialogue or acting alone. For the sequel “Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again” (2018), costume designer Michele Clapton, made a conscious decision to select “bright colours” for sequences set in Greece. “Clean Mediterranean blues, whites and oranges. I always think it looks better on the image when there is a coherency with the colour palette.” As well as enhancing characters’ individual styles, costuming is critical in defining a film’s semblance.
Looking for more films to satisfy that Greece-sized travel bug?
Here is a short (but non-definitive) guide to some of the best films shot in Greece:
Recent-release: “The Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery” (2022)
Rian Johnson
In this hedonistic, playful sequel to “Knives Out” (2019), director Rian Johnson invites us on a getaway to the private Greek island of tech billionaire, Miles Bron (Edward Norton). When murder strikes, Detective Benoit Blanc (Daniel Craig) is put on the case. With eight other guests, each a suspect, we follow Blanc as he uncovers a secret they’ve all been hiding.
Stream now on Netflix.
Loved by critics and audiences: “Before Midnight” (2013)
Richard Linklater
The last film in the ‘Before’ trilogy, Jesse (Ethan Hawke) and Celine (Julie Delpy), now a couple, reflect on love and life whilst on vacation in Greece. Blazing sunsets and dusky seas off the Peloponnese coast co-star alongside the two main characters. Even with a minimal plot, the film was particularly noted for its compelling screenplay, which was nominated for an Academy Award.
Available on Apple TV.
A-Must-See: “Zorba the Greek” (1964)
Michael Cacoyannis
Directed by Greek filmmaker Michael Cacoyannis, “Zorba the Greek” features Anthony Quinn in a career-defining role. This monumental film showcases rural Greek life from the mining communities of Crete, to the coastal town of Chania, where an unlikely friendship develops. Though black-and-white, it’s easy to imagine the blue seas and sun-soaked beaches through Walter Lassally’s careful eye. The famed cinematographer won an Academy Award for the film, and is responsible for cementing the film’s iconic ending in cinematic history.
Available on Apple TV. ✦
Sources:
https://www.adorama.com/alc/virtual-production-filmmaking/
https://www.vogue.com/article/travel-via-cinema-greece
https://www.refinery29.com/en-us/2018/07/204856/mamma-mia-erases-greek-local-characters
