Lights, Camera, Singapore! A Cinephile’s Guide to Iconic Movie Locations & Film Experiences
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Awards season is officially underway, so why not think about a cinephile vacation?
Consider cosmopolitan Singapore: The Asian city-state is different from any other city layout-wise because of its many towering skyscrapers amid reams of greenery. These two disparate urban planning style juxtaposed seamlessly make it the ideal place for a myriad of film shoots.
For movie-lovers, Singapore is the best place to track some of the world’s most iconic movie locations. Here are some of those spots that take cinema-loving travelers on a self-guided tour across the city.
Scouting Filming Locations
Marina Bay Sands
The Marina Bay Sands resort can be identified by its infinity pool that is situated at the same height as many of the skyscrapers in Singapore. It was recently featured in the final scene of “Crazy Rich Asians.” The Marina Bay Sands Observation Deck, another iconic feature of the resort, is a prominent symbol showcased in the film.
Gardens by the Bay
Replicated from the science fiction movie “Independence Day: Resurgence, this garden acts like a simulation of a futuristic landscape. Also housing some settings for intergalactic adventure movies, tourists can tour Gardens by the Bay: Flower Dome, Cloud Forest and much more. The film Lara Croft: Tomb Raider included scenes shot in the Gardens by the Bay, further showcasing its cinematic appeal.
Universal Studios Singapore
In Singapore, Universal Studios is located at Sentosa. During a visit to this park, it is possible for any movie enthusiast to access those spots which were applied to blockbusters such as Jurassic Park or Transformers. Additionally, Singapore’s modern architecture has been featured in films like Blackhat, adding a layer of sophistication to its narrative.
Capitol Theatre
The Capitol Theatre is a classic movie house which, until recent years, was renovated and restored by the Singapore Tourism Board after years of abandonment. Restoring the venue included adding in newer technology and touch-up painting a mural. Whisks of the old theatre remain conserved; it is now opened to the public for visitors wanting to see a segment of Singapore’s cinematic history. Another notable filming location in Singapore is Marina Barrage, a popular outdoor spot for capturing stunning visuals.
Seeing the Final Product
Attend a Film Festival
Some of the many film festivals organized in Singapore are the Singapore International Film Festival also known as SGIFF and Asia TV Forum & Market, aka ATF. These events showcase the artistry of filmmakers from around the world.
The Projector
Some of the best indie films play at this indie theater - “the Projector.” The movie theater showcases very diverse films and often hosts Q&A sessions with filmmakers after a showing of their movies.
Going ‘Backstage’
While many of Singapore’s great filming locations are open to the general public, some places only reveal their behind-the-scenes magic through a tour group. For cinephiles hoping to get that closer look at the city’s movie magic, guided tours introduce fans into their behind-the-scenes filmmaking. However, filming in Singapore may require permission from the Singapore Tourism Board, ensuring that all shoots are conducted smoothly and in accordance with local regulations.
Singapore has stunning locations, film festivals, and cinematic experiences that transport fans right into the world of their favorite films. The city is one place where cinephiles from across the world love to see scenes of iconic movies come alive.
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