You have the passion, the vision, and the talent to make it big as a film director. However, let’s be real- your small place of origin and local film school are not going to cut it in case you want to hit the big time. You need to get out there, see the culture, and take in suggestions from the greatest movie hot spots throughout the globe. We are talking about spots where cinema legends like Scorsese, Tarantino, and Spielberg soaked up the vibes that shaped their iconic directorial patterns. In this post, we’re going to be counted down as the must-go locations in 2024 for any aspiring film director looking to soak up cinematic history and creative energy.
Planning Your Travels as an Aspiring Movie Maker
As an aspiring filmmaker, visiting places acknowledged for iconic films can spark your creativity. New Zealand needs to be at the top of your listing. These beautiful landscapes have been the backdrop for the Lord of the Rings trilogy.
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If you love spaghetti westerns, AlmerÃa in southern Spain must be your list topper. The desert scenery was once used in lots of Clint Eastwood films, like The Good, the Bad and the Ugly. You can see familiar sets and backdrops from iconic Western scenes. The landscapes are stunning, with a rugged, untamed quality perfect for movies.
For jaw-dropping cityscapes, head to Hong Kong. The skyline glittering at night was featured in blockbusters like Batman and Mission: Impossible. For the time of the day, the city pulses with strength and activity. Turn a nook and you may come across a picturesque alleyway or colourful market that appears made for the big screen. Any budding filmmaker can find inspiration in this ultra-modern metropolis with a futuristic vibe.
Top Filmmaking Destinations in the United States
- Los Angeles, California
Los Angeles is the core of the American entertainment world, so obviously it needs to top the list. Home to significant studios like Warner Brothers, Universal, and Paramount, LA draws in producers from everywhere in the world wanting to become wildly successful. While you’re there, visit the famous Hollywood sign, walk around the Walk of Fame, and visit one of the enormous studios to get behind the scenes at film shooting.
- New York City
NYC is an ever-evolving mecca for movie directors. Many acclaimed directors have begun their careers in NYC. Besides the fact that the town fills in as the scenery for infinite films, it’s home to NYU’s Tisch School of Arts, one of the top movie schools in the United States of America. Head to Central Park, Times Square, or the Statue of Liberty to scout notable shooting areas. Or just people watching New York City’s clamoring roads are ready with stories ready to be told.
With enticing cities like these, the U.S. is a filmmaker’s paradise. No wonder so many all-time classics have been shot on American soil! Pack your camera, grab a crew, and start scouting. Your next filmmaking adventure awaits!
5 Iconic Places in the World to Visit as Movie Director
Hobbiton in Matamata, Waikato, New Zealand
As an aspiring film director, you must make a trip to Hobbiton, the country set of The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit trilogies. Stroll in the footsteps of director Peter Jackson and submerge yourself in the Shire. The luxurious green hills, babbling brooks, and fascinating hobbit holes will spark your creativity.
Dubrovnik, Croatia
The walled city of Dubrovnik at the Adriatic Sea is a cinematic dream. Its hanging medieval architecture and dramatic sea cliffs have served as the backdrop for plenty of movies like Star Wars: The Last Jedi and Game of Thrones. Find the cobblestone streets and metropolis walls to scout visually beautiful filming places on your next project.
Oxford University in England
The hallowed halls of Oxford have stimulated infinite films, from Brideshead Revisited to Harry Potter. As a director, seeing the Gothic spires, manicured courtyards and students in robes cycling beyond will fuel your creativity.
Painted Ladies in San Francisco
No trip to San Francisco is complete without seeing the enduring Painted Ladies. These colorful Victorian houses epitomize the town and are regarded in many movies, most famously Mrs. Doubtfire. Stand across Alamo Square Park and envision a poignant final scene set against these picturesque houses. For extra credit, visit the Mrs. Doubtfire house at 2640 Steiner Street.
Bayon Temple, Cambodia
Somewhere down in the Cambodian jungle lies the old temple of Bayon, its many stone appearances looking peacefully upon guests. The remnants of Angkor Wat have filled in as the backdrop for films like Lara Croft: Tomb Raider. As a director, exploring the atmospheric temples will spark ideas for action-adventure scenes and transport you to another time. Climb the towers of Bayon at sunrise for a truly magical experience. Follow azmovies for more!