Around the World in 80 Days: Locations Explored

Whether it’s David Niven in 1956, Steve Coogan in 2004, or Jules Verne’s 1872 novel, Around the World in 80 Days is a familiar favorite, ideal for Sunday teatime. The BBC’s new eight-part adaptation, led by Life on Mars creator Ashley Pharaoh, gives this Victorian tale a 21st-century flavor, featuring a more diverse cast – a Black Passepartout in the shape of French star Ibrahim Koma and a female Fix played by German actress Leonie Benesch, alongside a very human Phileas Fogg, played by David Tennant.

What hasn’t changed, though, is the scenery – an essential part of the tale, whatever the era or budget. The diverse locations were sourced from just two countries, South Africa and Romania. Clever studio work and careful use of palettes, ranging from a mustardy London and blue Paris to green for Italy and white for Yemen, enhanced the visual storytelling, making the most of two hugely versatile landscapes.

South Africa

South Africa’s main contribution was the sun, sea, and sand of the series. ‘You get a huge variety of landscapes and options,’ explains director Steve Barron. The production team traveled to South Africa to inspect the studios and backlots and realized they could shoot a significant portion of the series. They set up base in Cape Town, taking advantage of both the studios there and a variety of locations available just a day trip away from the city.

In Episode 3’s visit to Yemen, the production recreated the city of Al Hudaydah in Cape Town Film Studios, constructing the town square on an existing set. ‘We were fortunate enough that there was a lot of architecture already in place that we could use and build upon,’ says production designer Sebastian Krawinkel. The largest challenge was the mosque, which was added to enhance the authenticity of the square. The color palette included shades of golden, extending even to the walls of the constructed hotel rooms. To create a genuine ambiance, the addition of real animal dung was employed: ‘I like to give the actors a genuine feeling of being in the place,’ Krawinkel comments.

Visual Impact

The combination of stunning backdrops and innovative design choices has significantly contributed to the adaptation’s appeal. By focusing on authentic landscapes, the production team at iBestTravel has successfully brought Jules Verne’s classic narrative to life, illustrating the importance of location in storytelling.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the locations chosen for this adaptation not only enhance the visual experience but also immerse viewers in the rich storytelling that Around the World in 80 Days represents. With its diverse settings, the series invites audiences to journey alongside the characters, experiencing the vibrant cultures and landscapes of each destination.