By: Sumedha Singh Pundir (3rd Year, Miranda House)
The allure of historical sites is undeniable. From ancient castles to palaces to historic city centers and archaeological wonders, these places have a unique charm that draws filmmakers from around the world. In this blog, we will explore the delicate balance between filming around historical sites, between frames and facades, and the importance of using authentic sources to maintain historical accuracy.
Preservation through exposure: Allowing films to be shot at historical monuments can increase public awareness and appreciation of these sites. This exposure can lead to greater interest in their preservation. A notable example is the film “Gladiator”, which featured the Colosseum in Rome. The movie not only brought the ancient amphitheatre to a global audience but also contributed to renewed interest in Roman history and architecture. The film’s mainstream success was responsible for an increased interest in Roman and classical history on the United States.
Financial Support: Filmmakers often pay substantial fees to shoot at these locations, which can contribute to the maintenance ad restoration of historical monuments. This financial support can be crucial, especially for less- funded sites. For example, the production team of “Game of Thrones” paid substantial fees to shoot in Dubrovnik, Croatia, which was used as the backdrop for the fictional city of King’s Landing. These funds contributed to the preservation and restoration of the historic city walls and other landmarks.
Educational Value; Film productions can serve as educational tools, as they often depict historical events. Using real monuments as backdrops can enhance the authenticity and educational value pf the content. The film, “Schindler’s List” depicted the historical events of the holocaust. By shooting in real, historically significant locations like Auschwitz, the movie provided a deeply authentic and educational portrayal of the era.
Tourism Boost: Movies and TV shows shot at historical sites can significantly boost tourism. This influx of visitors can provide further revenue for local communities and the preservation of these sites. Example: the impact of movies like “The Lord of the Rings” filmed in New Zealand, which led to the increased tourism to locations such as Matamata, where the Hobbiton set is located. The on- screen depiction of breathtaking landscapes played a key role in attracting visitors to experience the real- life beauty of these historical sites. According to the general manager of Western long haul markets for Tourism New Zealand, Gregg Anderson, “We’ve seen a 50% increase in arrivals to New Zealand since Lord of the Ring: The Fellowship of the Ring, was released in 2001”.
These arguments suggest that using historical monuments in entertainment can be a positive force, promoting both preservation and cultural appreciation.
Filming around historical sites is a unique challenge that requires a delicate balance between maintaining historical accuracy and catering to the demands of a film production. To achieve this balance, filmmakers must diligently consult authentic sources, respect the preservation of historical sites, and pay meticulous attention to the details of set design and facades. By doing so, they can create cinematic masterpieces that not only entertain but also educate audiences about the richness of history. Remember that historical accuracy is not only about aesthetics but also a matter of respecting the heritage and memory of the past. It is through this commitment to authenticity that filmmakers can breathe life into history on the silver screen.
SOURCES AND CITATIONS:
Comments