Creating on location: How places have shaped Anurag Basu’s films

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A fireside chat at the 11^th edition of the India International Film Tourism Conclave (IIFTC) gave a peek into the fascinating mind of filmmaker Anurag Basu, who was speaking to moderator Zuzana Bielikova, Film Commissioner, Slovak Film Commission, Board Member, EUFCN.

Director, screenwriter and producer Basu effortlessly blends art and commerce in his unique blend of cinema. In his breakthrough journey from the world of television soap operas to comfortably straddling multi-genre subjects from crime to drama to comedy, he has given audiences some of the most memorable films of our time.

Basu crafts stories not just through narrative but also through the lens of places. Each of his films is infused with the spirit of its locations, which play a crucial role in shaping the mood, character arcs, and thematic depth of his narratives. From the bustling streets of Mumbai to the serene landscapes of Mexico and the vibrant culture of Seoul, Basu’s choice of setting is both intentional and transformative.

The Art of Location Selection

Basu’s process begins long before the camera rolls. He travels extensively, not only to scout locations but also to immerse himself in the environment that will inform his storytelling. “For me, every place has a story to tell,” Basu explains. “When I choose a location, I look for its character and its energy. It’s not just a backdrop; it must enhance the narrative.” This philosophy is evident in Life in a… Metro, where the city of Mumbai is not merely a setting; it becomes a character in its own right, reflecting the lives and struggles of its inhabitants.

A Journey through Landscapes

One of the most remarkable aspects of Basu’s films is how they traverse diverse geographical landscapes, each contributing uniquely to the storyline. In Jagga Jasoos, set against the picturesque backdrop of New Mexico, the expansive desert and vibrant local culture enhance the film’s whimsical tone. “The landscapes of New Mexico brought a visual richness that complemented Jagga’s adventurous spirit,” Basu notes. The rich colors and vast horizons mirror the protagonist’s journey, allowing viewers to experience the story not just through plot but through place.

Similarly, the filmmaker’s time spent in Seoul during the making of Barfi! reveals how the city’s urban landscape, infused with a blend of modernity and tradition, reflects the film’s themes of love and longing. “Seoul’s contrasting locations, from bustling streets to tranquil parks, deepened the emotional resonance of the story,” he says. “Every corner I explored offered inspiration, and I knew it would enhance the viewer’s experience.”

Writing on location

Basu’s creative process extends to writing, where he often finds inspiration in the locations he visits. Travelling to write allows him to absorb the nuances of the surroundings—sounds, sights, and smells—that ultimately inform his scripts. “When I’m on location, I can feel the heartbeat of the place,” he says. “This practice not only enriches my storytelling but also cultivates authenticity. I want my characters to reflect the environment they inhabit.”

The influence of setting on Mood and Direction

The settings in Basu’s films are more than just aesthetic choices. They are integral to the mood and direction of the narrative. The way light filters through the streets of Mumbai in …Metro evokes a sense of nostalgia, while the vibrant colors of New Mexico in Jagga Jasoos create a playful atmosphere. “The emotional landscape of my characters is linked to the physical landscape they inhabit,” Basu emphasizes. He carefully curates each location to enhance the emotional journey, ensuring that the audience feels every twist and turn.

Basu’s films serve as a testament to the power of place in storytelling. His meticulous attention to location not only shapes the narratives he crafts but also invites viewers to embark on a journey through varied landscapes that resonate on both emotional and visual levels. Through his lens, he reminds us that every place has its own story, and in Basu’s hands, these stories are woven into the very fabric of his cinema. As he aptly puts it, “Locations are not just where the story unfolds; they are the canvas upon which the emotions of my characters are painted.”

Anurag Basu Filmography (Besides a successful career in TV)

(Hits/Successes in Bold Font)

1. Kucch To Hai / 2003 (As co-director with Anil Verma)
2. Murder / 2004
3. Tumsa Nahin Dekha / 2004
4. Gangster / 2006
5. Life in a…Metro / 2007
6. Kites / 2010
7. Barfi! / 2012
8. Jagga Jasoos / 2017
9. Ludo / OTT release / 2020
10. Inn Dino…Metro / Upcoming in 2025 /