Filmmakers Discover “Moon And Mars” On Earth

Over the years, audiences have been captivated by spectacular sci-fi films that transport them to distant planets like Mars and the Moon. While many of these films rely on elaborate studio setups, creating vast, realistic planetary landscapes—especially for wide-angle shots—has always been a major challenge for filmmakers.

To overcome this, filmmakers discovered a breathtaking natural alternative on Earth that closely resembles extra terrestrial terrain—Wadi Rum in Jordan. Located near the Saudi border, this dramatic desert landscape, with its red sands and rugged rock formations, has become a go-to destination for sci-fi and epic filmmaking.

Wadi Rum has served as the backdrop for several major international productions. Films like The Martian (depicting the surface of Mars), Dune: Part One and Dune: Part Two, Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker, Rogue One: A Star Wars Story, Prometheus, Aladdin, Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen, and The Last Days on Mars have all utilized this stunning location.

The legacy of filming in Wadi Rum dates back decades. The iconic historical film Lawrence of Arabia was extensively shot in these deserts, proving that filmmakers have recognized its cinematic potential for generations.

Indian cinema has also embraced Wadi Rum. Bollywood films like Krrish 3, Munna Michael, and Bade Miyan Chote Miyan starring Akshay Kumar and Tiger Shroff have filmed here. Additionally, the Malayalam survival drama The Goat Life (Aadujeevitham) was also shot in Wadi Rum during the lockdown period.

Highlighting such extraordinary locations, the Bollywood travel show Bollylands.com recently featured Wadi Rum in its Jordan season. The show also explored other iconic destinations in Jordan, including Dead Sea, Aqaba, and Petra. The aim is to introduce fresh and visually striking locations to Indian filmmakers while showcasing destinations where Bollywood films have already been shot.

Bollylands.com is known for blending travel with cinema, offering viewers insights into filming locations, behind-the-scenes stories, and unexplored destinations. With the support of the Jordan Film Commission and the tourism department, the show successfully captured some of the country’s most iconic and film-friendly locations.

The show is currently aired on News Nine every Saturday at 1:30 PM, with repeat telecasts on Saturday at 6:30 PM and 10:00 PM, and on Sunday at 7:30 AM, 1:30 PM, 5:00 PM, and 8:30 PM.

Image Source - PR