10 Famous Movies That Have Scenes In Istanbul

Connecting continents with its bridges and civilisations with its history, Istanbul continues to inspire not only travellers but also filmmakers. Many international films set in Istanbul in different periods or shot in this fascinating city have hosted both action and dramatic stories. From James Bond to Dan Brown adaptations, award-winning productions to cult espionage films, many foreign films have brought the streets, markets and historical monuments of Istanbul to the screen. In this article, you will discover remarkable foreign movies shot in Istanbul and get a closer look at the city's place in the history of cinema.The 2009 film The International follows Manhattan District Attorney Eleanor Whitman and Interpol agent Louis Salinger as they fight to bring one of the world's most powerful banks to justice. During their investigation, the bank's illegal activities, including arms trafficking and money laundering, are exposed. Whitman and Salinger follow the trail to different cities such as Berlin, Milan, New York and Istanbul, getting caught up in international intrigue. The film also features a brief appearance by the talented actor Haluk Bilginer.Russell Crowe stars in and directs the 2014 film The Water Diviner, which is set after the First World War. The film tells the dramatic story of Joshua Connor (Crowe), an Australian farmer who travels to Turkey in search of his three sons who went to war and never returned. Featuring Olga Kurylenko and Yılmaz Erdoğan, the film offers a touching story about the human tragedies and hope that followed the war.Directed by Ben Affleck, Argo is a 2012 historical drama film based on real events. During the Iranian Revolution, 60 Americans were taken hostage during a raid on the American Embassy. However, six people escape and take refuge in the home of the Canadian Ambassador. CIA expert Tony Mendez develops an unusual plan to rescue these six people. The film also features scenes from Istanbul, Turkey, particularly the Zuhuratbaba neighbourhood in Bakırköy, the Grand Bazaar and Hagia Sophia.From Russia with Love, the second film in the James Bond series, was released in 1963 and directed by Terence Young. James Bond, played by Sean Connery, comes to Istanbul to seize the Lektor encryption device. However, this mission is a trap set by Bond's enemy, S.P.E.C.T.R.E. The film takes place in many locations in Istanbul and features the famous Orient Express train of the era. Some of the characters are Turkish.Taken II (translated into Turkish as ‘Takip: İstanbul’), is a 2012 English-language French action-thriller film. Directed by Olivier Megaton, the film centres on a kidnapping, just like the first film. This time, a significant part of the story takes place in Istanbul, and the city's enchanting atmosphere blends with the action scenes.Directed by Tomas Alfredson and released in 2011, Tinker, Tailor, Soldier, Spy (known as ‘Köstebek’ in Turkish) is a spy story set during the Cold War. The film stars Gary Oldman, Mark Strong, and John Hurt. The film tells the story of a British spy trying to regain his reputation as he attempts to solve a tale of betrayal that stretches from Budapest to Istanbul.Inferno, adapted from Dan Brown's famous novel of the same name, was released in 2016. The film stars Tom Hanks, Felicity Jones, and Ben Foster. Robert Langdon wakes up in a hotel room in Venice with no memory and finds himself on a journey across Europe to prevent a major catastrophe. Throughout the film, Istanbul's historical and cultural sites are also featured.Based on the famous computer game, Hitman (2007) was directed by Xavier Gens. The film follows Agent 47, an assassin, as he pursues those who set a trap for him. Set in Eastern Europe, the story also features scenes in Istanbul, with the city's texture integrated into the action.The 2014 film The Two Faces of January was directed by Hossein Amini and adapted from Patricia Highsmith's 1964 novel. The film stars Viggo Mortensen, Kirsten Dunst, and Oscar Isaac. Set in the 1960s, the story follows a couple involved in fraud. The film uses historical cities such as Athens, Crete, and Istanbul as backdrops and successfully captures the spirit of the era.One of the most notable films in the James Bond series, Skyfall, was released in 2012. The film takes place in various locations, including England, China, and Istanbul. The production won numerous prestigious awards, including two Academy Awards, two BAFTAs, and two Grammys. The scenes set in Istanbul were particularly praised for their action and atmosphere.

10 Famous Movies Filmed in Istanbul You Need to See

1. The International – 2009

2. The Water Diviner – 2014

3. Argo – 2012

4. From Russia With Love – 1963

5. Taken II – 2012

6. Tinker, Tailor, Soldier, Spy – 2011

7. Inferno – 2016

8. Hitman – 2007

9. The Two Faces of January – 2014

10. Skyfall – 2012

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