South Africa, with its diverse landscapes, rich culture, and vibrant cities, has become a popular filming destination for numerous international productions. The country’s stunning scenery, well-equipped studios, and skilled local talent have attracted filmmakers from around the world. In this article, we’ll delve into the top five TV shows filmed in South Africa, showcasing the country’s versatility as a backdrop for captivating storytelling.
- “Black Sails”: “Black Sails” is an American television series that serves as a prequel to Robert Louis Stevenson’s classic novel, “Treasure Island.” This historical adventure drama was predominantly filmed in Cape Town, which provided the perfect setting for its pirate-themed storyline. The city’s picturesque coastlines, rugged landscapes, and colonial architecture lent an authentic feel to the show’s portrayal of Nassau, a notorious pirate stronghold. With its exceptional production value and stunning visuals, “Black Sails” successfully transported viewers to the Golden Age of Piracy.
- “Homeland”: One of the most critically acclaimed TV shows of recent years, “Homeland” is an American espionage thriller that was partially filmed in Cape Town. The city doubled as various international locations, allowing the series to authentically portray different parts of the world. Cape Town’s urban areas, suburban neighborhoods, and scenic beauty were skillfully utilized to create a sense of global intrigue. The show’s compelling narrative and exceptional performances, coupled with South Africa’s diverse backdrops, made for an immersive viewing experience.
- “The Crown”: “The Crown,” a highly popular Netflix series chronicling the reign of Queen Elizabeth II, also found a home in South Africa during its production. The country provided a stand-in for some of the show’s significant historical moments, such as Queen Elizabeth’s 1947 tour of South Africa. Johannesburg’s cityscape and Pretoria’s Union Buildings played pivotal roles in recreating these iconic moments. South Africa’s ability to capture the grandeur of the British Empire’s past added an extra layer of authenticity to the show’s meticulous attention to detail.
- “Black Mirror” (Episode: “Metalhead”): The renowned science fiction anthology series “Black Mirror” featured an episode called “Metalhead,” which was filmed entirely in South Africa. This dystopian story followed the struggles of a woman trying to survive in a post-apocalyptic world dominated by robotic “dogs.” The episode took advantage of South Africa’s vast and desolate landscapes, capturing the sense of isolation and despair that permeated the narrative. The country’s unique blend of natural beauty and eerie emptiness contributed to the episode’s chilling atmosphere.
- “Blood Drive”: “Blood Drive” is a grindhouse-style horror series that embraced South Africa’s distinctive visual appeal. The show was set in a dystopian future where cars ran on human blood, and the backdrop of Cape Town provided an intriguing blend of urban decay and natural beauty. The city’s vibrant streets, dilapidated buildings, and sprawling landscapes created a stark contrast that amplified the show’s macabre aesthetic. “Blood Drive” showcased South Africa’s ability to embrace unconventional narratives and offer a distinct visual flair.
South Africa’s captivating landscapes, well-equipped production facilities, and talented local workforce have made it a sought-after filming location for various TV shows. From historical dramas to dystopian thrillers, the country has provided the perfect canvas for storytellers to bring their visions to life. As evidenced by the top five TV shows mentioned above, South Africa’s versatility and breathtaking scenery have played a significant role in enhancing the narrative and immersing viewers in captivating worlds. With its continued growth as a film production hub, we can expect more exceptional TV shows to be filmed in South Africa in the future.