In the context of the prestigious Shooting Locations Marketplace fair, which will be held at Feria de Valladolid from 15th to 16th October, The Royal Film Commission – Jordan is emerging as a standout in the search for ideal locations for audiovisual productions. Jordan, with its natural and cultural wealth, offers unique settings that have captivated filmmakers from around the world.
A Journey through Jordan’s Landscapes
Jordan is a country of impressive natural beauty and a rich cultural heritage. Its filming locations encompass a variety of landscapes and historical sites, perfect for a wide range of cinematic genres. Below are some of the most notable places:
- Wadi Rum: Known as the Valley of the Moon, Wadi Rum is a vast desert with imposing sandstone mountains, canyons, and ancient rock inscriptions. Its unique and otherworldly landscape has made it a popular setting for science fiction and adventure films. Notable productions that have chosen this location include “Lawrence of Arabia” (1962), “The Martian” (2015), and “Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker” (2019).
- Petra: This ancient city, carved into pink cliffs, is one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Its iconic structures like the Treasury and the Monastery, along with numerous tombs and temples, provide a breathtaking backdrop for historical and epic films. “Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade” (1989) and “Aladdin” (2019) are examples of productions filmed here.
- Dead Sea: The lowest point on Earth, famous for its high salinity and mineral-rich waters. The serene and surreal landscape of the Dead Sea is ideal for wellness and fantasy films.
- Aqaba: Situated on the Red Sea, Aqaba offers beautiful beaches, coral reefs, and a vibrant urban atmosphere. It’s perfect for underwater filming, beach scenes, and modern urban landscapes.
- Ajloun: Located in the northern highlands, Ajloun is home to lush forests and the historic Ajloun Castle. The area offers a refreshing contrast to Jordan’s desert landscapes and is ideal for historical dramas and nature documentaries.
- Archaeological Sites: Jordan is home to numerous archaeological sites, including Jerash, Umm Qais, and the Desert Castles. These sites provide a glimpse into ancient civilizations and offer rich historical settings for films.
Infrastructure and services for productions
Jordan offers a wide range of facilities and services to support film productions, including:
- Studios and equipment rental: Modern studios and a wide range of equipment available for hire.
- Local crew: Experienced local crew members, including directors, cinematographers, and production staff.
- Accommodation: A variety of accommodation options, from luxury hotels to budget lodgings, to meet the needs of film crews.
- Transport: Reliable transport services, including car hire and transport services, to facilitate movement across locations.
- Permits and support: The Royal Film Commission assists in obtaining the necessary filming permits and provides support throughout the production process.
A celebrated destination in the film world
Jordan has been a preferred location for numerous high-profile films, cementing its reputation as a top-tier filming destination. In addition to the productions already mentioned, films such as “John Wick: Chapter 4” (2023) and “Dune: Part One” (2021) have also chosen Jordan, particularly Wadi Rum, to capture the grandeur of its desert landscapes. The sequel “Dune: Part Two” (2024) continued the tradition, filming once again in this stunning setting.
Commitment to the film industry
The Royal Film Commission of Jordan not only provides logistical and technical support but also facilitates cultural and local integration. This commitment ensures that productions not only achieve their creative goals but also benefit from the cultural richness and hospitality of the Jordanian people.
In conclusion, the participation of The Royal Film Commission – Jordan in the Shooting Locations Marketplace in Valladolid is an invaluable opportunity for film professionals to discover the wonderful locations and exceptional services that Jordan has to offer. With its impressive variety of landscapes, rich historical heritage, and well-developed support infrastructure, Jordan stands out as a destination of choice for film productions worldwide.
The fair will be a perfect platform to explore new collaborations and exciting projects that will bring the magic of Jordan to cinema screens around the world.