By Sophie Nadeau
If you're a fan of Anthony Doerr's captivating works, then I'm sure you've been eagerly awaiting the new Netflix adaptation of "All the Light We Cannot See." Well, the wait is finally over! In this article, we'll take you on a journey to uncover the breathtaking filming locations of this highly anticipated series.
All The Light We Cannot See Filming Locations
The series takes us back to the haunting era of World War II, specifically during the 1944 Battle of Saint Malo. The story unfolds across Germany and France, and it spans four gripping episodes. With an incredible cast including Louis Hofmann, Lars Eidinger, Marion Bailey, Hugh Laurie, Mark Ruffalo, and Aria Mia Loberti, this adaptation promises to be a visual masterpiece.
The filming of "All The Light We Cannot See" took place in July 2022. Inspired by the book of the same name, the series intertwines the captivating narratives of Marie-Laure, a blind French teenager fleeing Paris with her father and a precious diamond, and Werner, a German soldier.
Saint Malo
A significant portion of the story unfolds in the enchanting city of Saint-Malo, and the series beautifully captures its essence. Aerial shots and beach scenes immerse viewers into the unique atmosphere of this walled French city.
Image: Saint Malo seen from afar
Villefranche-de-Rouergue
While Saint-Malo sets the stage for the series, the actual street scenes were filmed in the charming French town of Villefranche-de-Rouergue. The main square of Villefranche-de-Rouergue doubles as the heart of Saint-Malo, beautifully capturing the ambiance of 1940s France. Several streets were transformed to resemble the era, with shop fronts and other businesses intricately dressed for the scenes. Watch out for intense moments, such as bombings and the liberation of Saint-Malo, which were filmed in this picturesque town.
Budapest
Intriguingly, despite the presence of aerial and beach shots from Saint-Malo, many scenes portraying the city were filmed in Budapest. The Hungarian capital serves as the backdrop for pivotal moments, like Werner's desperate run across the wall to reach Marie-Laure amidst a night of chaos. Budapest also transforms into 1940s Paris, offering a captivating blend of history and architecture. Notably, Vécsey Street in Budapest doubles as the iconic Champs Élysées in the series. The production team successfully brings the magical essence of Paris to life without setting foot in the real city!
Some key Budapest destinations featured as filming locations include The Festetics Palace, Zichy Castle in Sóly and the Exchange Palace. The stunning natural history museum scenes were masterfully crafted on a film set, ensuring a seamless visual experience for viewers.
Berlin
While the exact details of filming locations in Berlin remain elusive, some reports suggest that certain scenes were captured in the German capital. The city's rich history and architecture undoubtedly add depth to the series, though we'll have to wait for more information to surface.
Studio Magic
Almost all of the interior scenes were filmed in a studio, providing the perfect canvas for the intricate details of the story to come alive. From Etienne and Madame Manec's homes to the Hotel of Bees in Saint-Malo, each set was meticulously constructed. Notably, Etienne's house took an impressive nine weeks to build, and even an entire spiral staircase was crafted from reclaimed timber. The dedication to creating an authentic and immersive experience for viewers shines through in every frame.
As we dive into the mesmerizing world of "All The Light We Cannot See," let's appreciate the incredible craftsmanship and attention to detail put into bringing this beloved story to life on screen. Join us on this visual journey across Germany and France as we witness the triumphs, challenges, and poignant moments of Marie-Laure and Werner.
About the Author: Sophie Nadeau is an avid lover of dogs, books, travel, pizza, and history. With a heart rooted in all things French, she divides her time between Paris and London, capturing stunning sunsets and indulging in all things sweet. To join Sophie on her adventures, subscribe to her YouTube Channel.
- TikTok
- YouTube
