Unlock the Secrets of ‘Cabaret’: The Filming Locations

'Cabaret' is a 1972 American drama film directed by Bob Fosse and starring Liza Minnelli. The movie’s rich cultural and historical backdrop captivates audiences with its portrayal of Berlin in 1931, a city on the brink of Nazi control. The film explores themes of decadence, escapism, and the moral decline leading up to World War II. To fully understand the essence of 'Cabaret,' it's essential to explore the actual filming locations that brought this World War II prelude to life.

Where Was 'Cabaret' Filmed?

The majority of the film's interiors were filmed at Bavaria Film Studios in Munich, Germany. This large film studio complex, with its impressive set designs and versatile production facilities, provided the perfect backdrop for the opulent and gritty atmosphere of the film. The sets for 'Cabaret' were meticulously crafted to recreate the 1930s Berlin nightlife. Acting as a character in the film, the studio's interiors capture the grandeur of the Kit Kat Klub, the warmth of the boarding house, and the starkness of the streets outside.

The exterior locations were primarily filmed around Berlin, a city rich in history and architecture that captures the spirit of 1930s Germany. The iconic streets of Mitte, the vibe of the bastions (fronts of old buildings with baroque decorations), and the landmarks like the Kaufhaus des Westens (Westend Department Store) all played a significant role in bringing 'Cabaret' to life. These locations added an authentic touch, making the film's world feel vivid and lived-in.

Norddeutscher Rundfunk (NDR) in Shleswig-Holstein

While most of the film was shot in Munich, there are scenes that were filmed in Norddeutscher Rundfunk (NDR) studios in Schleswig-Holstein. The NDR studios, located in the historic Hanseatic town of Neumünster, provided an additional layer of authenticity to the film. These locations contributed to the visual storytelling, as seen in some exterior shots that capture the blend of medieval and modern architecture typical of the region. The filmed scenes in Neumünster often feature the turning post on the market square, offering a glimpse into the local architecture and ambiance.

The choice of these filming locations was crucial in setting the stage for 'Cabaret.' Each location was carefully selected to complement the story and enhance the historical authenticity of the film. From the grand interiors of Bavaria Film Studios to the picturesque streets of Berlin and the historic buildings of Schleswig-Holstein, these places brought the film to life and allowed audiences to experience the 1930s Berlin in all its complexity.

Filming in Shleswig-Holstein: A Conservative Setting

The filming in Shleswig-Holstein, a region with a distinct cultural and historical background, provided an additional layer of authenticity. The area's conservative and politically traditional atmosphere often contrasts with the more cosmopolitan and tumultuous city of Berlin. This contrast is evident in scenes like the one where Sally Bowles (played by Liza Minnelli) performs at the Kit Kat Klub, juxtaposed against the more conservative towns and villages of Shleswig-Holstein.

The NDR studios in Schleswig-Holstein are known for their contributions to German television and film, and the choice to use them for 'Cabaret' reflects their commitment to preserving and showcasing local heritage. The filming in Neumünster and other towns allowed the film to capture a slice of rural German life that contrasts with the urban and international appeal of Berlin. This blend of locations helped to weave the narrative of 'Cabaret' more intricately, making the film's themes of cultural clash and societal change more profound.

Backstory and Real-life Berlin

The choice of filming locations reflects the cultural and historical backdrop of Berlin, which was a city on the brink of monumental changes in the 1930s. During the filming period, Berlin was not only a thriving cultural center but also a city under political and social strain. This tension is central to 'Cabaret,' as the film portrays the dance between decadence and moral decay that characterized the era.

From the film's iconic Kit Kat Klub, to the streets of Mitte and the boarding house in Schiffbauerdamm, the locations of 'Cabaret' served as a repository for the essence of the 1930s. They captured the spirit of a time when society was in transition, leading to the rise of the Nazi Party. The film used these locations to explore themes like social hypocrisy, the allure of escapism, and the vulnerability of individuals caught in a rapidly changing world.

The filming locations in 'Cabaret' are more than just sets; they are a significant part of the film's narrative and thematic depth. They provide a window into a bygone era and help us understand the historical and cultural context that shaped the film's story. By bringing the film to life with its authentic settings, 'Cabaret' invites viewers to not only watch but also to feel the era it portrays.

The Historical and Cultural Legacy of 'Cabaret'

The locations where 'Cabaret' was filmed have not only contributed to the film's narrative but have also left a lasting legacy. The Bavaria Film Studios in Munich continue to be a major production hub for German and international films, maintaining the spirit of 'Cabaret' in their work. Similarly, the streets and buildings of Berlin and Schleswig-Holstein have been immortalized in the film, serving as a testament to the enduring power of cinema to capture and preserve a moment in time.

The enduring popularity of 'Cabaret' is a testament to the strength of its storytelling and the authenticity of its settings. Even decades later, the film remains a powerful exploration of a fragile and turbulent era, made all the more compelling through the skilled use of its filming locations. The locations where 'Cabaret' was filmed continue to inspire filmmakers, historians, and film enthusiasts, offering a tangible link to the past and a window into a time of great change.