was james bond filmed in matera?

Welcome to an exciting journey through the enchanting town of Matera, Italy, where an important sequence of the highly anticipated film “No Time To Die” takes place. Situated on a rocky outcrop in the picturesque region of Basilicata, Matera provides a breathtaking backdrop for James Bond’s adventures. From cemetery scenes to romantic moments and high-speed chases, Matera’s historic charm and natural beauty come to life on the silver screen. Join us as we explore the significance of Matera in “No Time To Die” and delve into the captivating details of this remarkable filming location.

Key Takeaways

• Matera, Italy, serves as a stunning setting for crucial scenes in the film “No Time To Die.
• The monochrome nature of Matera and its metaphorical appeal add depth to the narrative.
• Daniel Craig’s dedication to performing his own stunts brings authenticity and excitement to the action sequences.
• Matera’s inclusion in “Wonder Woman” showcases its versatility as a cinematic location.
• Accommodations such as Palazzo Gattini and Casa Diva contribute to the film’s aesthetic quality.

A City of Cinematic Wonders

Matera’s cinematic appeal goes beyond its appearance in “No Time To Die.” The city has also served as a filming location for the Themyscira scenes in the popular film “Wonder Woman.” Its unique blend of history and natural beauty has attracted filmmakers from around the world.

Director’s Vision

Director Cary Fukunaga shares his insights on why Matera was chosen as a pivotal location for the film. Fukunaga explains, “Mark Tildesley, our production designer, pitched it as a great location to start off the film. The monochrome nature of Matera already makes it feel like a large necropolis. There’s a lot of metaphors there in terms of what Bond was leaving behind for the next chapter. So that’s kind of how we got there. We also combined two different cities in the sequence. The bridge that we say connects Matera to the necropolis is actually in a neighboring town around 30 to 40 minutes away called Gravina in Puglia. We made it seem like it’s all part of the same journey, but it’s actually not part of the same town.”

Action-Packed Stunts

“No Time To Die” showcases Daniel Craig’s dedication to his role as James Bond, as he performs many of his own stunts. One thrilling sequence involves Craig driving the iconic Aston Martin DB5 in heart-pounding ‘doughnut’ maneuvers in the town square. Craig’s commitment to bringing the action to life adds an extra layer of authenticity and excitement to the film.

Unforgettable Locations

The production team scouted various locations to create the immersive world of “No Time To Die.” Notable accommodations used during filming include Palazzo Gattini in Piazza Duomo, Casa Diva in Via Giumella, the popular hotel Sextantio in the Sasso Barisano, and the Beach Restaurant Riva dei Ginepri in Marina di Pisticci. Each location adds its own touch of elegance and allure to the film.

Set Locations:

1. Palazzo Gattini: Located in Piazza Duomo, Palazzo Gattini offers a luxurious setting for the film’s production team. Its grandeur and historical significance make it an ideal choice for capturing the essence of Matera.
2. Casa Diva: Situated in Via Giumella, Casa Diva provides a charming atmosphere that complements the film’s romantic scenes. Its picturesque surroundings add an enchanting element to the story.
3. Sextantio: The renowned hotel Sextantio, nestled in the Sasso Barisano district, offers a distinctive setting that perfectly aligns with the film’s tone. Its integration into the film showcases the unique character of Matera.
4. Beach Restaurant Riva dei Ginepri: Located in Marina di Pisticci, the Beach Restaurant Riva dei Ginepri adds a touch of coastal beauty to the film. Its scenic views and relaxing ambiance create a memorable backdrop for the characters’ interactions.

Gravina: A Seamless Blend

While Matera takes center stage, the neighboring town of Gravina also plays a crucial role in the film. The bridge where Bond faces an attack by Primo on the Triumph motorcycle and the Maserati Quattroporte, and later makes a daring jump, was actually filmed in Gravina. The Ponte Acquedotto sul torrente Gravina seamlessly blends with the Matera shots, enhancing the continuity of the sequence. Googlemap location

Sapri Train Station: A Moment of Respite

On September 24th, 2019, filming took place at Sapri train station, transformed into the fictional town of ‘Civita Lucana.’ After the exhilarating chase in Matera, Bond and Madeleine find themselves at Sapri train station with the battered Aston Martin DB5 riddled with bullet holes. The station offers a brief respite before their journey continues, potentially leading to further action and captivating scenes.

googlemap location

Sapri may be a three-hour drive from Matera, but its inclusion in the film expands the narrative’s scope and introduces audiences to new, captivating locations.

As “No Time To Die” hits theaters, Matera’s enchanting beauty and historic charm will undoubtedly leave a lasting impression on viewers. From its monochrome aesthetics to its seamless blend with neighboring towns, Matera stands as a testament to the allure of Italy’s cinematic landscapes. Brace yourself for an unforgettable adventure with James Bond in this captivating setting.

FAQ

1. What makes Matera a suitable location for “No Time To Die”?

Matera’s selection as a location for “No Time To Die” is driven by its unique characteristics that perfectly align with the film’s storyline. The monochrome nature of Matera, resembling a large necropolis, adds a metaphorical layer to the narrative, symbolizing what James Bond is leaving behind in his quest for the next chapter. The city’s historic charm and picturesque landscapes create an immersive atmosphere that enhances the film’s visuals and captures the attention of the audience. Matera’s seamless blend with neighboring towns, such as Gravina, further enriches the storyline and expands the scope of the film’s thrilling sequences. In summary, Matera’s natural beauty, metaphoric appeal, and versatility as a filming location make it an ideal setting for “No Time To Die.”

2. How does Daniel Craig contribute to the action scenes in the film?

Daniel Craig’s dedication to his role as James Bond extends to his involvement in the film’s action scenes. Known for his commitment to performing his own stunts, Craig brings an authentic and intense energy to the action sequences in “No Time To Die.” In the film, he showcases his skills behind the wheel by executing thrilling ‘doughnuts’ with the Aston Martin DB5 in the town square. Craig’s active participation in the stunts adds a heightened level of realism and excitement to the film, immersing the audience further into the world of James Bond. His willingness to push boundaries and take on physical challenges ensures that the action scenes in “No Time To Die” leave a lasting impact on viewers.

3. How does Matera’s inclusion in “Wonder Woman” contribute to its cinematic appeal?

Matera’s involvement as a filming location in “Wonder Woman” further establishes its cinematic appeal. The city’s unique blend of history and natural beauty creates a captivating backdrop that adds depth to the fictional world of Themyscira. By featuring Matera in “Wonder Woman,” filmmakers highlight its versatility and ability to transport audiences into different realms and narratives. The stunning visuals and grandeur of Matera contribute to the overall aesthetic quality of the film and help create a sense of wonder and awe. Matera’s cinematic contributions extend beyond its role in “No Time To Die” and solidify its reputation as a sought-after filming location.

4. Can you provide more information about the accommodations used during filming?

Certainly! The production team of “No Time To Die” carefully selected various accommodations in Matera to enhance the authenticity and ambiance of the film. Palazzo Gattini, located in Piazza Duomo, offers a luxurious setting that aligns perfectly with the film’s tone and adds a touch of elegance to the scenes. Casa Diva, situated in Via Giumella, provides a picturesque atmosphere that complements the film’s romantic moments, allowing the characters to interact in a charming setting. The popular hotel Sextantio, nestled in the Sasso Barisano district, contributes its unique character and historical significance to the film’s visuals. Additionally, the Beach Restaurant Riva dei Ginepri in Marina di Pisticci adds coastal beauty to the scenes, creating a memorable backdrop for the characters’ experiences. Each of these accommodations was carefully chosen to enhance the overall atmosphere and immerse the audience in the world of “No Time To Die.”

5. How does the neighboring town of Gravina blend with the Matera shots?

Gravina, located approximately 30 minutes away from Matera, seamlessly blends with the Matera shots in “No Time To Die.” Specifically, the bridge where Bond faces an attack by Primo on the Triumph motorcycle and the Maserati Quattroporte, and later makes a daring jump, was filmed in Gravina. The Ponte Acquedotto sul torrente Gravina, with its architectural beauty and structural elegance, integrates seamlessly with the aesthetics of Matera. The filmmakers carefully crafted a sense of continuity, making it appear as though the bridge connects Matera to the necropolis, even though it is physically located in Gravina. This meticulous attention to detail ensures a smooth visual transition between the two locations, enhancing the overall cinematic experience of the film.

6. How does the Sapri train station fit into the film’s storyline?

In “No Time To Die,” the fictional town of ‘Civita Lucana’ is represented by the Sapri train station in Italy. After the intense chase in Matera, James Bond and Madeleine arrive at Sapri train station, where their battered Aston Martin DB5, filled with bullet holes, serves as a testament to the action they have encountered. The train station provides a moment of respite before their journey continues, potentially involving further action or captivating scenes. Although Sapri is located a three-hour drive from Matera, its inclusion in the film expands the narrative’s scope and introduces new, intriguing locations, allowing the story to unfold in unexpected ways.

7. What other films have utilized Matera as a filming location?

Matera’s cinematic appeal extends beyond its role in “No Time To Die.” The city has been chosen as a filming location for other notable films, such as “Wonder Woman,” where it served as the backdrop for the Themyscira scenes. The inclusion of Matera in multiple high-profile films highlights its versatility and visual allure, attracting filmmakers from around the world. Its historic charm, monochrome aesthetics, and breathtaking landscapes continue to captivate both filmmakers and audiences alike.

8. How does Matera contribute to the overall atmosphere of “No Time To Die”?

Matera plays a significant role in setting the atmosphere of “No Time To Die.” Its stunning landscapes, ancient architecture, and monochrome visuals contribute to the film’s distinct aesthetic and create a sense of grandeur. The city’s unique topography and historical significance add depth and texture to the narrative, reflecting the metaphorical journey of James Bond’s character. Matera’s inclusion in the film ensures that viewers are immersed in a visually captivating world that enhances the overall cinematic experience.

9. Does Matera’s inclusion in the film have any cultural or historical significance?

Matera’s inclusion in “No Time To Die” carries cultural and historical significance. The city itself has a rich history dating back thousands of years, with its cave dwellings, known as Sassi, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site. By featuring Matera in the film, the production team brings attention to the city’s unique cultural heritage and showcases its architectural splendor to a global audience. Matera’s presence in “No Time To Die” not only adds visual appeal but also raises awareness about the city’s historical and cultural importance.

10. How does the filming in Matera contribute to the authenticity of the film?

Filming in Matera adds an element of authenticity to “No Time To Die.” The city’s real-life locations, such as Palazzo Gattini, Casa Diva, Sextantio, and the Beach Restaurant Riva dei Ginepri, provide tangible settings that immerse the characters in their surroundings. By utilizing Matera’s captivating landscapes and historic buildings, the film creates a more realistic and believable world for the audience to experience. The attention to detail in selecting Matera as a filming location underscores the filmmakers’ commitment to creating an authentic and visually captivating James Bond adventure.