Where Was Ex Machina Filmed?

Ex Machina, a thought-provoking science fiction film, was shot in several visually stunning locations in Norway and the United Kingdom. The remote and picturesque landscapes of Norway, along with the sleek and minimalist architecture of the UK, contribute significantly to the film's immersive atmosphere.

Norway

Juvet Landscape Hotel, Valldal

The Juvet Landscape Hotel serves as the primary setting for Ex Machina, representing the secluded and enigmatic estate where the majority of the film takes place. The hotel's innovative design, which seamlessly blends into the surrounding Norwegian mountains, creates a sense of isolation and confinement for the characters.

Geirangerfjord, Ålesund

Geirangerfjord, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, provides the backdrop for some of the film's most stunning shots. The fjord's towering cliffs, lush waterfalls, and picturesque villages offer a breathtaking natural setting that adds to the film's sense of awe and mystery.

United Kingdom

Pinewood Studios, Iver Heath

Pinewood Studios, renowned for its involvement in iconic film productions, played a pivotal role in Ex Machina's creation. The film's extensive interior sequences, including the sleek and futuristic laboratory and living quarters, were shot within Pinewood's state-of-the-art facilities.

Leavesden Studios, Hertfordshire

Leavesden Studios, another renowned film production hub, hosted the filming of Ex Machina's exterior shots. The studio's vast expanse provided an ideal setting for the construction of the film's meticulously crafted outdoor sets, including the helicopter landing pad and the surrounding forest.

Thematic Significance of the Filming Locations

The choice of filming locations in Ex Machina holds profound thematic significance. The isolated and sparsely populated landscapes of Norway reflect the characters' sense of confinement and the film's exploration of artificial intelligence's potential for deception and manipulation. Conversely, the sleek and modern architecture of the UK laboratories underscores the film's commentary on the hubris of scientific advancement.

Additional Filming Locations

• Gardermoen Airport, Oslo, Norway: The film's opening sequence depicts Caleb arriving in Norway, showcasing the Oslo airport's modern design and bustling atmosphere.

  

• Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU), Trondheim, Norway: The university's campus appears briefly in the film, representing Caleb's academic background and his connection to the world of artificial intelligence.

Why Norway and the UK?

The decision to film Ex Machina in Norway and the UK was deliberate and strategic. Both countries offer:

• Stunning natural landscapes: Norway's fjords and the UK's rolling countryside provide breathtaking backdrops that enhance the film's visual impact.

• Renowned film production facilities: Pinewood and Leavesden Studios are world-renowned for their expertise and infrastructure, ensuring the film's high production value.

Conclusion

The filming locations in Ex Machina play a crucial role in shaping the film's atmosphere, themes, and narrative. The remote and evocative landscapes of Norway and the sleek and modern architecture of the UK create a visually stunning and thematically resonant backdrop that elevates the film's exploration of artificial intelligence and the limits of human control.