Written by on Oct 6, 2011. Posted in On Location

Sam Mendes’ James Bond film to shoot on location in Istanbul

The new James Bond film, starring Daniel Craig and directed by Sam Mendes, will be filming scenes in Istanbul, according to the Anatolia news agency. The popular tourist area of Sultanahmet is likely to be the focus, but other parts of the city are apparently being considered too.

Ertuğrul Günay, Turkey’s Culture and Tourism Minister, spoke to the outlet: “I believe that for Turkey to be able to feature as part of the set location on the 50th anniversary of James Bond will be a great boost to our tourism. We have made a concerted effort in the past five years to support the film sector and our aim continues to be to welcome international film crews to our country for filming.”

We have made a concerted effort in the past five years to support the film sector and our aim continues to be to welcome international film crews to our country for filming.

Ertuğrul Günay, Culture and Tourism Minister

Istanbul’s proving popular for British spies. Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy filmed in the city recently, serviced by Alex Sutherland and his AZ Celtic Films, although it purposely avoided the better-known tourist areas. American television’s also been there in the last few weeks, with new ABC drama Missing having filmed scenes with Ashley Judd and Sean Bean.

After a lengthy period of planning and negotiations, the Bond production recently decided against an India shoot, with South Africa the likely replacement.

Homepage image courtesy of Karma Films.