Hey guys! Ever watched a movie and been so captivated by a location that you just had to know where it was filmed? Well, today we’re diving deep into the gritty and gripping world of "Criminal," the 2016 action thriller starring Kevin Costner, Gary Oldman, and Gal Gadot. Not only is the plot a wild ride, but the filming locations are equally fascinating. So, buckle up as we explore the real-world spots that brought this intense story to life!

London, England: The Heart of the Action

When you think of "Criminal," you might not immediately picture London, but a significant portion of the movie was filmed in this vibrant city. London's diverse architecture and bustling streets provided the perfect backdrop for the film’s high-stakes espionage and action sequences. The urban landscape lent an air of authenticity to the narrative, making it feel all the more real. Key scenes were shot around iconic locations, blending the familiar with the fictional.

One of the prominent locations in London was the Old Royal Naval College in Greenwich. This stunning architectural marvel, with its baroque design and sprawling grounds, served as a stand-in for various government facilities and high-security locations within the film. The grandeur of the buildings added a layer of gravitas to scenes involving intelligence agencies and clandestine meetings. Walking through the Old Royal Naval College, you can almost feel the echoes of the intense moments captured on screen.

Another notable London location was the Barbican Centre. This cultural hub, known for its brutalist architecture, provided a stark and imposing setting for several key scenes. The Barbican's concrete structures and labyrinthine walkways perfectly complemented the film's dark and edgy tone. Its unique design aesthetic is unmistakable and adds a distinct visual flair to the movie. The contrast between the Barbican’s rigid lines and the chaotic action unfolding within the film creates a compelling visual dynamic.

In addition to these landmarks, various streets and neighborhoods throughout London were used to create the film's atmosphere. Busy markets, quiet residential areas, and bustling commercial districts all played their part in painting a realistic picture of the city. These diverse settings helped to ground the film in reality, making the more fantastical elements of the plot feel believable. The filmmakers skillfully used London’s urban tapestry to enhance the film's overall sense of urgency and suspense. London really becomes a character of its own.

Camber Sands, East Sussex: The Coastal Escape

Leaving the urban sprawl of London behind, "Criminal" also takes us to the scenic shores of Camber Sands in East Sussex. This coastal location offers a stark contrast to the cityscapes, providing a visual respite and a change of pace. Camber Sands, with its vast sandy beach and dramatic dunes, plays a crucial role in several key scenes, particularly those involving quieter, more reflective moments. The natural beauty of the area adds a layer of depth to the film, highlighting the isolation and vulnerability of certain characters.

The expansive beach at Camber Sands provided the perfect setting for scenes requiring a sense of openness and solitude. The seemingly endless stretch of sand creates a feeling of isolation, which is effectively used to underscore the emotional struggles of the characters. The rolling dunes add visual interest and a sense of drama to the landscape, making it a compelling backdrop for pivotal moments in the story. The ever-changing light and weather conditions at Camber Sands also contribute to the film's atmosphere, enhancing the emotional impact of each scene.

The contrast between the urban and coastal settings in "Criminal" is striking. While London provides a sense of urgency and tension, Camber Sands offers a moment of calm and reflection. This juxtaposition helps to create a more dynamic and engaging viewing experience, keeping audiences invested in the characters' journeys. The beauty and tranquility of Camber Sands serve as a reminder of what the characters are fighting to protect, adding weight to their actions and decisions. It’s really a treat to see such a beautiful location featured so prominently.

Bulgaria: Adding International Flair

To add an international dimension to the film, some scenes for "Criminal" were also shot in Bulgaria. While the specific locations within Bulgaria are less widely documented, the country's diverse landscapes and urban environments provided additional backdrops for the film's complex narrative. Bulgaria, with its mix of modern cities and historic sites, offered the filmmakers a range of options for creating a visually rich and authentic world.

Bulgaria's unique architectural styles and cultural heritage contributed to the film's overall sense of realism. The use of Bulgarian locations helped to broaden the scope of the story, suggesting that the events unfolding were part of a larger, global network of espionage and intrigue. While not as prominently featured as London or Camber Sands, Bulgaria's presence in the film adds depth and texture to the narrative.

Additionally, filming in Bulgaria often provides logistical and financial advantages, making it an attractive option for large-scale productions. The country's growing film industry and experienced crew members make it a viable alternative to more expensive locations. By incorporating Bulgarian locations into "Criminal," the filmmakers were able to create a more expansive and visually interesting film while also managing their budget effectively. It shows how global the movie-making process can be.

Other Notable Locations

Besides the main locations already discussed, "Criminal" also utilized a variety of other spots to complete its visual tapestry. These locations, while perhaps less prominent, played an essential role in creating the film's overall atmosphere and sense of realism. Keep an eye out for these spots if you decide to rewatch the movie; you might be surprised at what you find!

Various streets and buildings in London, beyond the Barbican and Old Royal Naval College, were used for shorter scenes or establishing shots. These locations helped to create a sense of place, grounding the film in the real world. Parks, residential areas, and commercial districts all played their part in bringing London to life on screen. The filmmakers' attention to detail in selecting these locations contributed to the film's overall authenticity.

Additionally, some interior scenes were likely filmed in studio settings, allowing for greater control over lighting, sound, and other technical aspects of the production. These studio sets were meticulously designed to match the look and feel of the real-world locations, ensuring a seamless transition between on-location and studio-based scenes. The combination of real locations and carefully crafted sets helped to create a believable and immersive cinematic experience.

Why Location Matters

The choice of filming locations is crucial in shaping the tone and atmosphere of a movie like "Criminal." The gritty urban landscapes of London, the serene beauty of Camber Sands, and the international flavor of Bulgaria all contribute to the film's overall impact. The locations aren't just backdrops; they're integral parts of the storytelling process.

The urban settings of London amplify the film's sense of urgency and tension, reflecting the high stakes faced by the characters. The city's iconic landmarks and bustling streets add a layer of realism, making the fantastical elements of the plot feel more believable. The contrast between the city's modernity and its historical roots also adds depth to the film's visual narrative.

Camber Sands, on the other hand, provides a moment of respite from the urban chaos, offering a visual contrast that underscores the characters' emotional journeys. The vast expanse of the beach and the rolling dunes create a sense of isolation and vulnerability, highlighting the human element within the action-packed plot. The natural beauty of the location serves as a reminder of what the characters are fighting to protect.

By carefully selecting and utilizing these diverse locations, the filmmakers were able to create a rich and immersive cinematic experience. The locations enhance the storytelling, add depth to the characters, and contribute to the overall impact of the film. It's a testament to the power of location scouting and the importance of finding the perfect settings to bring a story to life. It truly shows how much thought goes into making a film.

So, there you have it – a tour of the filming locations for "Criminal"! Next time you watch the movie, keep an eye out for these spots and see how they contribute to the film's overall impact. You might be surprised at how much the locations enhance the storytelling. Happy watching!