Jordan, a country rich in cultural heritage and breathtaking landscapes, has captured the attention of filmmakers from around the world. Its diverse terrain, ranging from ancient cities to desert landscapes and magnificent rock formations, has served as the backdrop for numerous iconic movies. In this blog post, we will take you on a cinematic journey through Jordan, highlighting ten remarkable films that were shot amidst its stunning locations.
- Lawrence of Arabia (1962): One of the most iconic movies ever made, “Lawrence of Arabia,” directed by David Lean, extensively utilized Jordan’s dramatic landscapes. Wadi Rum, also known as the Valley of the Moon, showcased its vast desert, towering cliffs, and sand dunes, providing the perfect setting for the epic story of T.E. Lawrence.
- Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade (1989): The timeless adventure film starring Harrison Ford took viewers on a quest for the Holy Grail. The ancient city of Petra played a significant role as the mysterious hidden temple. The famous Treasury, carved into the rose-red rock face, became an instantly recognizable symbol of the movie.
- The Martian (2015): Based on Andy Weir’s best-selling novel, “The Martian” featured Matt Damon as an astronaut stranded on Mars. Wadi Rum’s otherworldly landscapes and its red sand provided a convincing portrayal of the Martian surface, adding an extra layer of realism to this thrilling sci-fi film.
- Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen (2009): The popular action-packed franchise brought its robot battles to the breathtaking backdrop of Wadi Rum. The desert’s vast expanse and unique rock formations set the stage for epic battles between the Autobots and the Decepticons, creating a visually stunning spectacle.
- Aladdin (2019): The live-action adaptation of the beloved Disney classic took advantage of Jordan’s architectural wonders. The ancient city of Aqaba and its magnificent coastal views provided a picturesque backdrop for the enchanting adventures of Aladdin and Jasmine.
- The Hurt Locker (2008): Directed by Kathryn Bigelow, this intense war drama depicted the dangerous world of bomb disposal in Iraq. Parts of the movie were filmed in the capital city of Amman, which stood in for the bustling streets of Baghdad, offering a realistic urban setting.
- Red Sea Diving Resort (2019): Based on a true story, this Netflix film starring Chris Evans follows a group of Mossad agents who set up a diving resort in Sudan to rescue Ethiopian Jews. The Red Sea coastal town of Aqaba served as a stand-in for the film, offering stunning beach scenes and underwater sequences.
- The Mummy Returns (2001): This action-adventure sequel transported audiences to ancient Egypt. Jordan’s historical city of Petra was once again chosen as a location, with its magnificent structures and intricate carvings providing an authentic setting for the film’s exploration and adventure.
- Body of Lies (2008): Directed by Ridley Scott, this espionage thriller featured Leonardo DiCaprio and Russell Crowe. Amman’s vibrant urban landscape and modern architecture lent themselves well to the movie’s intricate plot and intense chase sequences.
- Theeb (2014): This critically acclaimed Jordanian film was set in the country’s southern desert. With its stunning cinematography, it captured the essence of the landscape and the Bedouin culture, offering a unique glimpse into the rich heritage of Jordan.
Jordan’s awe-inspiring locations have served as a canvas for numerous films, providing filmmakers with a diverse range of settings to bring their stories to life. From the ancient city of Petra to the vast deserts of Wadi Rum, Jordan’s landscapes have showcased their versatility and beauty on the
