We Ought to Be in Pictures

(7/9/2005)

The 2005 edition of /Locations Magazine, the authoritative publication used by directors, producers and location scouts, examines why film makers have a nature love affair for Bali. The article, "Bali Most Beautiful" traces Bali's long association with film-making - dating from Andres Roosevelt's 1932 epic "Goona Goona" and Henri de la Falaise's 1935 silent movie "Legong: Dance of the Virgins" to the just completed shooting of Mark Esposito's "Toute La Beaute Du Monde".

Security Not a Concern

Quoted in the article, Bali Film Commission's Founder Deborah Gabinetti said that among the growing number of producer bringing projects to Bali, surprisingly few have expressed security concerns. "We have close relations with all government departments, including local and national security forces," she said. "There are point people on call 24 hours a day assigned specifically to assist film crews, and preventative and emergency response services have also been increased. This gives us the confidence to actively and responsibly promote Indonesian to filmmakers."

Director Esposito endoresed Gabinetti's enthusiasm for Bali as a film locale, praising local cooperation and the ease of access provided to his crew during an eight week shoot covering some 60 locations.

Are Balinese Good Actors?

Following the Esposito project, however, the question of whether or not the Balinese are natural actors remains unanswered.

According to Esposito, "the people are always smiling and the local communities welcomed us warmly. Everyone on the set was very moved by the kindness and generosity of the Balinese."

His film project, depicting Bali and Lombok as the most beautiful places in the world - Toute la Beaute du Monde - relied heavily on the islands' natural charms and God-given beauty.

At least for this particular project, there was little call for skilled actors and set decorators.