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Shooting Spots and Architecture: Cinematic Architecture
In its essence, architecture is all about designing spaces, creating desired environments, and facilitating the activity that is anticipated to take place in that particular space. The articulated space and the ambiance created so has all the ability to engage all five human senses and evoke various emotions. Now coming to cinemas, cinemas are all about storytelling, isn’t it?
What role does architecture play in storytelling? While it is true that architecture has the ability to tell stories all by itself, it is also helpful in creating the desired mood facilitating the story. Yes, it is the environment, the architecture, and the set that sets the tone and mood for the story to progress. Architects become set designers, while architecture becomes cinematic architecture or film architecture.
Film architecture has evolved over the years from theatrical set design to present-day CGI sets that appeared in movies like Life of Pi, Avatar, etc. Cinematic architecture is employed to amplify the emotional response of the audience. The environment of the film must be able to sustain the emotion that the narrative carries. The architecture in films is like the imagery in poems, exaggerating emotions like terror, anguish, suspense, boredom, alienation, melancholy, happiness, or ecstasy, depending on the director’s intention.
Film Locations, Physical Set and Computer-Generated Set
Film locations, Physical sets, and computer-generated sets, all indicate the setting where the story unfolds, to be specific the environment captured in the movie. Film location and set design are two distinct aspects of cinematic architecture that are often interchangeably used and misinterpreted to be the same. Film locations, colloquially known as Shooting spots indicate real-life places where the film is shot. Film locations can be of any scale and function and anywhere in the world including historical places like forts, palaces, urbanscapes like streets, and cities, and even natural landscapes like hills and waterfalls. Shooting in real-life film locations or shooting spots enhances the authenticity of the film.
Film sets are exclusively planned and built by set designers for shooting a certain film. These sets are built in coordination with the director’s imagination of a certain place that doesn’t exist in reality or is not reachable due to various reasons. Set designs, unlike film locations, provide complete control over the environment, ambiance, lighting, and minute details of the set to the director.
Computer-generated set designs involve adding the environments generated with the help of advanced software to shots filmed in a studio with a green screen backdrop. Further, a new typology of set is used nowadays, that is a fusion of the above-mentioned set designs. The films are shot in film locations or designed sets and are enhanced with computer graphics during post-production to attain the desired effect.
historical monuments of india as Shooting Spots
There is no lack of monuments and other historic structures like forts in India. These structures stood the test of time, multiple invasions, and foreign attacks. These structures are preserved and protected by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI). Apart from being popular tourist spots, these structures also serve as shooting spots.
Nahargarh Fort and Jaigarh Fort of Jaipur, Udaivilas Palace and Chomu Palace of Rajasthan, Aguada and Chapora Forts of Goa, Ahilya Fort and Gwalior Fort of Madhya Pradesh are among the only few of the architectural marvels that the big screens have captured. From historical fiction to drama, action movies, irrespective of the genre Bollywood to Hollywood movies have been filmed in these locations.
Epic period drama films like Jodha Akbar and Padmavat have been filmed in famous Indian forts like Amer Fort, and Chittorgarh Fort respectively. Another historical fiction film series, Ponniyin Selvan I and II has been filmed in several historical architectural structures and coasts across India and the globe. Ponniyin Selvan has been filmed around and in the Ahilya fort in Madhya Pradesh and the neighboring banks of the river of Narmada which is referred to as Pazhayarai, residence of princess Kundavai in the narrative.
This film was also shot in Golconda Fort in Telangana, Orchha Fort, and Gwalior Fort of Madhya Pradesh and referred to as Prince Adithya Karikalan’s Fort, Kadamboor Fort and Tanjore Fort in the movie respectively. However, it is worthy noting that the scenes of Ponniyin Selvan have been enhanced with CGI effects. These forts have not just appeared in historical period dramas but also in movies set in contemporary times like Udaivilas Palace in ‘Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani’ movie, Castle Mandawa in movies like ‘Jab We Met’ and ‘PK’, Nahargarh Fort in ‘Rang De Basanti’ movie, etc.
Unexplored Caliber of other Historic Architecture in India
India boasts rich architectural marvels belonging to various periods and architectural styles which have been captured on the big screen as discussed above. However, from Bollywood to Hollywood only a few famous historical places which are also tourist places appear repeatedly in movies. There are other locations spread across India with an equal potential to serve as a filming backdrop. For example, Raisen Fort and Mandu Fort in Madhya Pradesh, Korigad Fort in Maharashtra, Taragarh Fort in Rajasthan, and Kalinjar Fort in Uttar Pradesh are some of the unexplored forts that are scenic enough to appear in movies. Other potential locations are discussed below.
Gingee Fort
The Gingee Fort, locally known as Senji Fort is located in the Viluppuram district of Tamil Nadu. The ruins of palaces and temples, secret tunnels and passageways, and watchtowers standing with pride speak of the grandeur of the architecture of this fort. The fort was known to be impregnable, the British praised the fortification and called it the ‘Troy of the East’.
Kondapalli Fort
The Kondapalli Fort, also known as Kondapalli Quilla is located in the Krishna District in Andhra Pradesh. Prolaya Vema Reddy of Kondavidu constructed this fort during the 14th century. The fort is suitable for filming as it is situated on a hill and is surrounded by greenery. Also, the ruins of some parts of the fort are still present, making it a unique shooting spot.
Manjarabad Fort
The Manjarabad Fort is located in Sakleshpur of Hassan district, Karnataka. Tipu Sultan constructed this fort in 1792. It is a massive unique star-shaped fort built using granite, lime mortar, and fired bricks. This fort will be an ideal film location because of its unique form and its lush green backdrop of dense forests. Moreover, due to its height, if the sky is not cloudy, the Arabian ocean is also visible from the fort.
Conclusion
Shooting in real-life locations or manually created shooting spots may be decided depending upon the narrative and the director’s imagination as both have their own advantages and drawbacks. However, filming in real-life locations that are under the control of the Archaeological Survey of India following the guidelines may financially aid the ASI. Moreover, shooting in these spots might create awareness about these shooting spots that were once important landmarks and witnesses of significant historical political events.
Shooting in real-life filming locations definitely adds to the authenticity of the narrative but fails to provide control over certain aspects like weather, lighting, and noise which may lead to inconsistencies. It is cost-effective and less time-consuming to work on filming locations rather than sets. Also, certain effects required in period dramas or rural narratives can only be obtained in actual locations. However, care has to be taken to abide by the laws of ASI or the concerned authority inorder to ensure the sustenance of the historical marvels to narrate their personal stories!
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
- What kind of architectural marvels can I find in India?
India boasts a diverse range of historical architecture, from Mughal forts and palaces to intricately carved temples and colonial-era buildings.
- What kind of shoots can be done at these locations?
These locations are perfect for fashion shooting spots, historical documentaries, music videos, pre-wedding shoots, and films.
- Are there any permissions required to shoot at historical sites?
Yes, permission is usually required to shoot at historical monuments of india. The process can vary depending on the specific monument and the local authorities. It’s recommended to contact the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) or the monument’s caretakers well in advance to inquire about photography permits and any associated fees.
- Where can I find some of the most alluring historical sites in India?
The “golden triangle” of Delhi, Agra Taj Mahal, and Jaipur is a great starting point. Other must-sees include Hampi, Khajuraho, Mysore Palace, and the Ajanta and Ellora Caves.
- How can I choose the perfect spot within a historical site?
Consider the architectural elements that resonate with your shoot’s theme. Look for symmetrical facades, grand courtyards, intricate carvings, or unique lighting conditions.
- Are there any resources to help me scout locations?
Several websites and travel blogs showcase stunning photos of historical sites in India. These can be a great source of inspiration, though permission to shoot may still be required.
- How far in advance should I apply for filming permits?
It’s best to apply at least 2-3 months beforehand, especially during peak tourist season.
- What are some of the things to consider when planning a shoot at historical monuments of India?
Be mindful of visitor restrictions and designated photography areas. Be prepared for limited crew sizes and restrictions on equipment usage to protect the monuments.
- Are there any professional photography service providers who can help with permits and logistics?
Local production companies specializing in historical site shoots can be invaluable for navigating permissions, logistics, and even scouting the perfect locations.
