Exploring the Shooting Locations for Kollywood Movies in India and Beyond

Kollywood, the film industry of Tamil Nadu in India, has a rich tradition of producing captivating films. The choice of shooting locations plays a significant role in enhancing the visual appeal and authenticity of the films. This article delves into the diverse shooting locations used in Kollywood movies, from the bustling cityscapes to the breathtaking natural landscapes of various states and even foreign locations.

Exploring Kollywood Scenes in Indian States

Hyderabad

Ramoji Film City, known as the 'Hollywood of India,' is a well-known hub for filming locations in Kollywood. This sprawling film city serves as the primary backdrop for many of the most popular Tamil film stars and directors. Notably, Ramoji Film City is the go-to spot for shooting major action and special effects scenes. Its vast and meticulously designed sets allow filmmakers to create spectacular visuals in a matter of days, rather than weeks.

Apart from Ramoji Film City, City College Hyderabad has found prominence as a filming location for college and educational scenes. The campus provides a steady supply of picturesque and realistic settings that meet the diverse needs of filmmakers. The rich atmosphere and authentic look of the college environment make it a favorite for portraying educational scenarios and coming-of-age stories.

Karnataka

Belur, a district in Karnataka, is frequently used for depicting rural scenes, particularly in the southeastern regions of Tamil Nadu. The serene and rustic landscapes here are ideal for showcasing the agrarian and tribal lifestyles. Another popular spot is Sakleshpura, which is renowned for its lush greenery. The natural beauty of Sakleshpura provides an awe-inspiring backdrop for scenes requiring extensive foliage and a verdant setting.

Kerala

Kerala's renowned houseboats and lush greenery have long been popular choices for filming scenes. However, in recent years, the preference has shifted towards Karnataka. This change can be attributed to the administrative unions that often limit the use of resources in Kerala. Additionally, the best of the best technicians find it difficult to operate in Kerala, making Karnataka a more reliable and versatile option for filmmakers. While Kerala remains an essential location for scenes requiring pristine natural beauty, Karnataka's flexibility and accessibility make it a preferred choice.

Kolkata, Chennai, Coimbatore, and Nashik

Kolkata and its surrounding cities, including Coimbatore and Nashik, are frequented for shooting city and urban scenes. These locations not only add a touch of authenticity to the scripts but also offer a variety of urban and semi-urban settings. Chennai has traditionally been a hive of activity, but due to safety concerns and crowd management issues, shooting in Chennai has become quite challenging.

Ooty

Ooty, also known as Yercaud, is celebrated for its mist-shrouded landscapes, dense forests, and breathtaking views. This location is particularly favored for horror and psychological thrillers. The misty and eerie atmosphere, coupled with the natural beauty of Ooty, creates an ideal setting for creating a sense of mystery and suspense in films. The dense forest and unusual tree formations add to the enchanting and eerie ambiance, making Ooty a preferred choice for chilling horror and suspense scenes.

Foreign Locations for Kollywood Filmmakers

When it comes to foreign filming locations, Kollywood has wide-ranging options that cater to a variety of scenes. Malaysia, with its diverse landscapes and vibrant culture, is a favorite for location shooting. Thailand is often the choice for beach and tropical scenes, offering pristine coastline and warm temperatures. Many scenes that are supposed to be filmed in Goa are now shot in Phuket or Langkawi, both of which provide similar picturesque settings with added convenience and affordability.

Eastern Europe has emerged as a popular choice for scenes requiring a snowy and picturesque backdrop. Given its proximity to Russia and other snowy regions, it offers a cost-effective alternative to Switzerland, which is a preferred location for many Bollywood films due to its scenic beauty and expense. Additionally, Dubai and Turkey are widely used for shooting international scenes, while even Europe's most expensive destinations like Switzerland, South Africa, Mauritius, and the Maldives remain relatively uncommon for Kollywood films due to their high costs and limited availability.

The strategic use of these diverse locations helps add depth and richness to Kollywood movies, ensuring that each film is not only captivating but also visually authentic. These meticulously chosen shooting locations enhance the storytelling experience, allowing the filmmakers to create a compelling narrative that resonates with the audience.