Exploring Bali Through the Lens: A Look at Films Shot in the Island of Gods

Exploring Bali Through the Lens: A Look at Films Shot in the Island of Gods

April 16, 2024 | General

Over the years, Bali has served as the setting for numerous films. Each offering a unique glimpse into the beauty and allure of this tropical paradise. Let’s take a closer look at some notable films shot in Bali and how they’ve showcased the island’s magic on the silver screen.

Exploring Bali Through the Lens

“Eat Pray Love” (2010)

Based on Elizabeth Gilbert’s bestselling memoir, “Eat Pray Love” stars Julia Roberts as a woman who embarks on a journey of self-discovery across Italy, India, and Bali. The film’s Bali sequences were shot in various locations across the island. Directed by Ryan Murphy, this film including the picturesque town of Ubud and the tranquil beaches of Padang Padang.

“Eat Pray Love” not only showcases Bali’s stunning landscapes. But also highlights its spiritual and cultural significance as a place of healing and renewal.

“The Fall” (2006)

Directed by Tarsem Singh, “The Fall” is a visually stunning fantasy adventure. That absolutely takes viewers on a breathtaking journey through locales, including Bali. While the majority of the film was shot in countries like India and South Africa. Several scenes were filmed on location in Bali. Its shows the lush jungles, cascading waterfalls, and dramatic coastline.

“The Fall” transports viewers to a fantastical world of imagination and wonder. Especially Bali providing a captivating backdrop for the film’s otherworldly landscapes.

“Baraka” (1992)

“Baraka,” directed by Ron Fricke, is a visually stunning documentary film. Talk about the explores humanity’s relationship with the natural world through. Baraka is a series of breathtaking images captured across 24 countries, including Indonesia.

The film features several mesmerizing sequences shot in Bali, showcasing the island’s rich cultural heritage, vibrant landscapes, and spiritual rituals. From traditional Balinese dance performances to sweeping aerial views of the island’s volcanic terrain, “Baraka” offers a profound meditation on the interconnectedness of all life.

“South Pacific” (1958)

“South Pacific” is a classic romantic drama set against the backdrop of World War II. Adapted from the Rodgers and Hammerstein musical of the same name,

Several scenes were filmed in Bali and the majority of the film was shot on location in Hawaii. Including the iconic “Bali Ha’i” sequence set on a lush, tropical island. With its sweeping vistas and romantic allure, Bali provided the perfect setting for the film’s idyllic paradise.

“Julia & Julia” (1987)

Directed by Peter Del Monte, “Julia & Julia” is a poignant drama. That follows the intertwined lives of two women named Julia. This film was played by Kathleen Turner and Sting’s wife, Trudie Styler.

Shot on location in Bali, the film captures the island’s serene beauty and cultural richness. Serving as a backdrop for the characters’ personal journeys of self-discovery and transformation. With its lush landscapes and captivating scenery, this island plays a central role in the film’s exploration of love, loss, and redemption.

From romantic dramas to epic adventures, films shot in this island have captured the island’s beauty, spirituality, and cultural richness in captivating ways. Whether serving as a backdrop for tales of self-discovery or providing a canvas for visual storytelling, Bali continues to inspire filmmakers and audiences alike with its timeless allure.

As these films demonstrate, Bali is not just a destination. It’s a cinematic masterpiece waiting to be explored and experienced on the silver screen.