Behind the ecstasy of the bewitching songs and mesmerising performances of the blockbuster Mamma Mia! musicals lies a fascinating tale of their picturesque filming locations. This cinematic adaptation of the beloved Broadway musical – a jukebox-style homage to the iconic tunes of ABBA – has not only taken the world by storm but also showcased some of Europe’s most stunning locales in both installments, “Mamma Mia!” (2008) and sequel “Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again” (2018).
The first movie, Mamma Mia!, was primarily shot on the tiny island of Skopelos, part of the Sporades island group in Greece. With its idyllic beaches, verdant landscapes, and crystalline waters, Skopelos provided an exquisite backdrop for the enchanting love story. Key scenes, such as the wedding ceremony in the film’s climax, were filmed at the local Agios Ioannis chapel, a place of worship perched atop a 100-meter cliff that has since become a tourist hotspot.
While Skopelos was the main location, nearby Skiathos and the Pelion Peninsula on the mainland also shared screen space. The old port of Skiathos features in the beginning, as the restaurant where the three potential dads meet. Damouchari in Pelion poses as Sophie’s reading retreat owing to its calm and serene ambiance.
Despite the success of the first Mamma Mia!, the sequel relocated to a different Mediterranean paradise: Vis, a small Croatian island in the Adriatic Sea. According to the film’s location manager, Croatia was chosen for its visual similarity to Skopelos, but with a fresh identity.
Vis’ untouched beauty, chalk-white cliffs, azure waters, and the charm of its rustic old town fascinated the makers. The scenic Stiniva beach and the cozy Barjoska Bay were used for the seaside scenes. The island’s secluded Fort George served as the spot for the movie’s grand finale, adding a touch of historic majesty.
Among the many alluring spots, the picturesque village of Komiza stands out. Its photogenic streets and the quaint harbor dotted old stone houses featured prominently in the sequel.
Interestingly, the sequel’s ’70s scenes were shot in Oxfordshire’s Shepperton Studios in England. The team replicated Rosino’s courtyard, the French farmhouse, and a Parisian café for young Donna’s journey, highlighting their commitment to creating flawless and evocative visuals, irrespective of geographical constraints.
The Mamma Mia! movies’ ethereal locations have significantly boosted local tourism and international appreciation for these awe-inspiring destinations. Since the original film, Skopelos has witnessed a surge in visitor numbers, affectionately called the ‘Mamma Mia effect’. The trend continues with the sequel, as VisitCroatia.com reports a rising interest in Vis post the movie’s release.
In conclusion, the spectacular narratives of Mamma Mia! and Mamma Mia: Here We Go Again not only have thrilled audiences with ABBA’s timeless melodies, but also captured hearts with their breathtaking Mediterranean filming locations. Their behind-the-scenes accounts reveal an intriguing blend of creative choices, logistical considerations, and geographical wonders.
The Mamma Mia! series showcases how film can spotlight lesser-known regions, accentuating their character, beauty, and boosting their global visibility. Their chosen locations have become synonymous with the joy and vibrancy that the films encapsulate, testament to the cinematic magic that can transform landscapes into cultural icons.
Original Source: https://www.cntraveler.com/story/where-was-mamma-mia-filmed-behind-the-scenes-of-both-blockbuster-musicals
