Ha Long Bay Continues to Be Chosen as the Setting for Hollywood Films

The picturesque Ha Long Bay has once again been selected as the backdrop for a Hollywood film, adding to its growing list of international cinematic appearances. The imagery of Ha Long Bay, adorned with towering limestone cliffs, serene turquoise waters, has made a striking appearance in the trailer for “The Creator,” a sci-fi film directed by Gareth Edwards with a whopping investment of $80 million.

This is not the first time that Ha Long Bay has graced the silver screen; it was previously featured in “Kong: Skull Island.” However, “The Creator” takes the cinematic experience to new heights, promising a visual feast with its substantial budget and creative direction.

The trailer, a two-minute spectacle, showcases Ha Long Bay at the 1-minute-14-second mark. The scene unfolds with the characteristic karst formations, misty landscapes, and the tranquil azure waters, leaving a lasting impression on the audience.

Director Gareth Edwards demonstrates a skillful fusion of Eastern culture on the widescreen, utilizing unique visuals to craft a diverse and captivating futuristic world. The film boasts a star-studded cast, including the notable presence of Vietnamese actress Ngô Thanh Vân.

“The Creator” premiered on September 29th, captivating audiences with its imaginative storytelling against the breathtaking backdrop of Ha Long Bay.

Known for its majestic yet poetic beauty, Ha Long Bay has been featured in numerous international films. In 2017, “Kong: Skull Island” directed by Vogt-Roberts showcased the bay’s stunning landscapes, creating a global cinematic sensation. The film depicted Ha Long Bay in all its grandeur, with its towering limestone islets emerging from the crystal-clear waters.

The success of “Kong: Skull Island” sparked a cinematic fever in Vietnam, drawing attention to the film’s director, Jordan Vogt-Roberts, who was appointed as Vietnam’s Tourism Ambassador.

In 2015, Ha Long Bay took on a mythical and fairytale-like appearance in Hollywood’s “Pan and the Neverland.” Notably, when discussing successful films set against the backdrop of Ha Long Bay, one cannot overlook the French film “Indochine” directed by Régis Wargnier, which won the Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film in 1992.

The allure of Ha Long Bay is not confined to the big screen; it has become a sought-after location for television series and documentaries produced in Vietnam, exploring various facets, from the natural beauty to the cultural richness of the local fishing communities.

In light of these cinematic triumphs, Ha Long Bay stands as a valuable canvas for artistic exploration and expression. Its allure, both on-screen and off-screen, has contributed significantly to the global recognition of this natural wonder.

Most recently, on September 16, 2023, the UNESCO World Heritage Committee recognized the Ha Long Bay – Cat Ba Archipelago as a World Natural Heritage site. This acknowledgment underscores the unique natural beauty of the region, characterized by limestone islets, towering cliffs, and vibrant ecosystems.

With its 1,133 limestone islets (775 in Ha Long Bay and 358 in Cat Ba Archipelago) adorned with lush vegetation, Ha Long Bay – Cat Ba Archipelago resembles a chessboard of precious stones, surrounded by emerald-green waters and pristine white sand beaches.

The intersection of mountainous landscapes and the sea creates a high level of biodiversity, with seven distinct marine and island ecosystems, representing tropical, subtropical, and adjoining environments.

Having received UNESCO recognition twice before in 1994 and 2000, Ha Long Bay’s inclusion as a World Natural Heritage site underscores its enduring appeal and ecological significance on a global scale.

In conclusion, the continued selection of Ha Long Bay as a cinematic setting not only contributes to the success of these films but also serves as a golden opportunity to promote global awareness of Ha Long Bay as a premier travel destination. As the bay graces screens worldwide, it invites audiences to embark on a journey to witness the unique charm and beauty that define this natural wonder.