Imagine stepping into a world from the 1940s, where hope and resistance intertwine amidst the backdrop of the Battle of Saint-Malo. That's exactly what you experience while watching the captivating Netflix drama, "All the Light We Cannot See." But have you ever wondered if the stunning cinematography and mesmerizing locations were merely the magic of movie sets or if they truly exist?
Paris, a City Reborn in Budapest
As the story follows Marie-Laure and her father Daniel, who flee from the Nazis in Paris and seek solace in the French countryside before ultimately settling in Saint-Malo, the series takes us on a visual journey. Although the shots of Paris are relatively sparse, they are undeniably breathtaking. Surprisingly, the streets of Budapest, Hungary were the creative canvas that magically transformed into 1940s Paris for the series.
The streets of Budapest play the role of 1940s Paris.
Specific locations in Budapest, such as The Festetics Palace, Zichy Castle in Sopoly, and the Exchange Palace, were carefully chosen to recreate the essence of Paris. Even the iconic Champs-Élysées, where Parisians watched the Nazi soldiers' entrance into the city, was brought to life on a section of Budapest's Vécsey Street.
Director Levy shared that filming in Hungary coincided with Russia's invasion of Ukraine, making the experience both unsettling and deeply impactful. Despite the circumstances, the timeless nature of the story resonated with everyone involved, allowing the series to capture the essence of the book in a cinematic manner.
Saint-Malo and Beyond
While Budapest gave life to Paris, the enchanting French port city of Saint-Malo played a significant role. Known for being heavily bombed by the Allies in 1944, Saint-Malo's history seamlessly blended with the narrative. The series was actually filmed on location, capturing the authenticity of this captivating coastal town.
The picturesque town of Saint-Malo brought the story to life.
Additionally, the charming commune of Villefranche-de-Rouergue, nestled in the Aveyron department in the south of France, was chosen for its resemblance to Saint-Malo pre-World War II. This picturesque location became the canvas for many pivotal scenes, including the bombings and the eventual liberation of Saint-Malo.
Director Levy approached the series as a four-hour film, assembling a dedicated crew and artistic collaborators to deliver a truly cinematic experience. The commitment and passion of the team ensured that the beauty of the book and screenplays was impeccably transposed onto the screen, capturing the hearts of viewers.
The Journey Continues
Mark your calendars for Thursday, November 2nd, 2023, as "All the Light We Cannot See" premieres on Netflix, promising a captivating and emotional journey through history. If you haven't already, sign up for Netflix to immerse yourself in this remarkable series. Don't miss the chance to explore the drama and emotions that lie within the pages of Anthony Doerr's acclaimed novel, available now.
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Prepare to be transported to a world where light and darkness collide, where courage and resilience triumph. "All the Light We Cannot See" is a masterpiece that will captivate your heart and soul, leaving you with fresh insights that resonate long after the final credits roll.
