Namibia on Screen: Movies Filmed in Namibia

Namibia, with its breathtaking landscapes – the towering dunes of the Namib Desert, the rugged Skeleton Coast, the vast savannas of Etosha National Park – has served as a mesmerizing backdrop for countless films and television series. This captivating African nation has lent its unique beauty to a diverse range of cinematic productions, from classic adventures to modern blockbusters, showcasing its dramatic scenery to a global audience. Lets take a look at some of this films and cinematography that placed Namibia’s unique landscapes on the map.

The Gods Must Be Crazy (1980): This iconic comedy, a South African film, not only showcased the beauty of the Namib Desert but also offered a glimpse into the lives of the !Kung people, a fascinating indigenous community. I remember fondly watching this movie with my primary school friends during a movie night. The film revolves around the unexpected arrival of a Coca-Cola bottle, an object completely foreign to the tribe, which disrupts their peaceful existence and sends the protagonist on a hilarious and heartwarming journey of discovery. Its a timeless classic that continues to entertain audiences with its blend of humor, cultural insights, and stunning visuals.

Mad Max: Fury Road (2015): George Miller’s post-apocalyptic masterpiece transformed the Namibian landscape into a desolate and breathtaking cinematic playground. The film’s iconic chase sequences, with their vibrant colors and surreal settings, were largely filmed in the Namib Desert, showcasing its dramatic dunes and stark beauty.

2001: A Space Odyssey (1968): While much of the film’s iconic imagery was created through groundbreaking special effects, certain desert scenes were filmed in Namibia, adding to the film’s sense of awe and wonder.

Dune: Part Two (2024): This highly anticipated sequel will continue to utilize the dramatic landscapes of Namibia, bringing the epic story of Arrakis to life on the big screen. The film’s production team is expected to leverage the Namib Desert’s otherworldly beauty to create stunning visuals for the fictional planet Arrakis.

Beast (2022): While primarily set in South Africa, this thrilling survival horror film starring Idris Elba features some breathtaking South African landscapes, including scenes believed to have been filmed in Namibia, adding to the film’s intense and suspenseful atmosphere. I enjoyed watching this one when it come out. After recently finding out that some parts of it was filmed in Namibia, there wasn’t a chance I was going to exclude it from this blog entry. In the film a recently widowed Dr. Nate Daniels (Idris Elba) and his two teenage daughters, Meredith and Norah, travel to a South African game reserve managed by Martin Battles, an old family friend and wildlife biologist. What begins as a journey of healing for Nate soon turns into a terrifying fight for survival when a rogue lion, enraged and driven to violence by poachers begins hunting them down relentlessly. Its was refreshing watching Idris Elba who usually portrays action heroes, playing a normal dude just trying to survive. Another must watch!

From classic adventures to modern blockbusters, Namibia’s cinematic journey continues to unfold. These films not only entertain audiences worldwide but also serve as powerful ambassadors for the country, showcasing its unique beauty and diverse landscapes to millions. As the film industry continues to evolve, Namibia is poised to remain a sought-after destination for filmmakers, captivating audiences with its stunning scenery and offering a unique cinematic experience.

Have you seen any of these films or TV series? What are your favorite movies and shows filmed in Namibia? Share your thoughts and recommendations in the comments below!

Author: Bravo Karita