Borat's Film Locations: Unveiling the Secrets of 'Cultural Learnings of America'
Lenni Azambuja (also known as Sasha Baron Cohen) brought the role of Borat to life in his two film series, 'Borat: Cultural Learnings of America for Make Benefit Glorious Nation of Kazakhstan' and 'Borat Subsequent Moviefilm: Delivery of Prodigious Bribe to American Regime for Make Benefit Once Glorious Nation of Kazakhstan.' One of the most intriguing aspects of these films is the locations where the opening scenes were filmed. In this article, we will delve into the filming locations of 'Cultural Learnings of America' to uncover the secrets behind the familiar scenes.
Glod: The Fictional Home Village?
Glod is a fully constructed set in Kazakhstan that served as the filming location for Borat's fictional home village. The village was built in 2005 in the Karagandy region of Kazakhstan and has been destroyed since the filming, making it a historical filming site that captures the essence of the film.
Why Glod?
The choice of Glod to serve as the fictional home village for Borat was carefully considered by the filmmakers. The village was created to resemble a rural Kazakhstani setting, which provided an authentic and convincing backdrop for the mockumentary. Filming in Glod allowed for the creation of a believable Borat character by immersing the actors and crew in a foreign and unfamiliar environment.
New York City: A Blend of Real and Fiction
While the majority of the film was shot in Kazakhstan, key scenes, including the opening sequence, were filmed in various locations around New York City. This choice allowed the filmmakers to seamlessly blend the fictional village with the real world, showcasing the stark contrast between the two settings.
Manhattan as the Urban Background
The opening scene of 'Borat: Cultural Learnings of America for Make Benefit Glorious Nation of Kazakhstan' begins in a run-down alleyway on the Lower East Side of Manhattan. The setting of this scene is crucial to establishing the unique and often disruptive nature of Borat's tourist-style tour of America. The cramped, urban environment serves as a foil to the wide-open spaces of Glod, and the contrast helps to set the tone for the rest of the film.
The Eunice Cochran Home
A significant portion of the film is set in and around the Eunice Cochran Home, a MetLife insurance agency building located at 120 Broadway in Manhattan. The building is recognizable in several scenes and serves as a focal point for the film, providing a familiar urban backdrop. The exterior and interior of this location were carefully chosen to reflect the essence of New York City in the early 2000s, a period known for its distinctive architecture and bustling streets.
The Importance of Tradition
Throughout the film, Borat often emphasizes the significance of tradition, and the filming locations reflect this theme. New York City, with its mix of old and new, is a perfect backdrop for showcasing cultural contrasts. The modern city contrasts sharply with the fictional rural village of Glod, creating a narrative that is both satirical and thought-provoking.
Cultural Insights and Reflections
The use of real-world locations in 'Cultural Learnings of America' offers a unique perspective on American culture and traditions. By setting parts of the film in New York City, the filmmakers aimed to highlight the diversity and complexity of the urban landscape while using it as a catalyst for Borat's observations and misadventures.
Filming Techniques and Locations
One of the most remarkable aspects of the film is the seamless integration of the mock documentary style with traditional filmmaking. The choice of locations, such as the Eunice Cochran Home and the Lower East Side, adds authenticity and depth to the narrative, making the film more engaging and relatable to audiences.
The Impact on Filmmaking
The success of the Borat series has had a lasting impact on the film industry. The innovative use of locations and the mock documentary style has influenced the way satirical films are made and perceived. The decision to film parts of the series in Kazakhstan and other locations highlights the importance of a diverse and authentic setting in creating memorable cinema.
Legacy and Influence
The legacy of 'Cultural Learnings of America' extends far beyond its cultural commentary. The film's impact on comedy and hidden camera satire has been significant, inspiring a generation of filmmakers and comedians to tell stories in new and innovative ways. By blending fictional and real-world locations, the Borat series set a new standard for comedic filmmaking.
Conclusion
Borat's fictional home village in Glod and the real-world locations in New York City are essential elements that contribute to the authenticity and effectiveness of the film. The choice of these locations not only enhances the storytelling but also captures the essence of the Borat character and his cultural journey. As a result, 'Cultural Learnings of America' remains a landmark in modern comedy and filmmaking.