How Jeff Daniels-Jared Harris Drama ’Reykjavik’ Used Authentic Locations to Tell the Story of a Cold War Summit in Iceland

As a seasoned cinephile with decades of movie-watching under my belt, I can confidently say that the upcoming film “Reykjavik” has piqued my interest like no other. The authenticity of shooting at the actual Höfði House where history was made is not just a gimmick; it’s an immersive experience that promises to transport viewers back to 1986 in a way few films can achieve.

In the forthcoming movie “Reykjavik,” the actors playing Ronald Reagan and Mikhail Gorbachev, namely Jeff Daniels and Jared Harris, will be settling into the very chairs in the genuine location of the 1986 discussion about a possible nuclear arms treaty – the building where this historic event truly occurred.

Michael Russell Gunn, writer-director of “Thai Cave Rescue,” expresses his fondness for the genuine atmosphere when they film at the real Höfði House in Iceland. Producer John Logan Pierson concurs, noting that there’s a unique energy and vibe that originates from shooting on location. Notably, Pete Souza, the official photographer from the 1986 summit and currently involved with the film’s production, captures these authentic moments on set.

The authenticity we achieved was possible thanks to Iceland’s tax incentives and skilled teams. As Pierson explains, ‘We had to produce this on a budget that could compete with others, and sometimes shooting in locations that aren’t production-friendly or lack robust infrastructure is necessary.’

Mark O’Connor, executive vice president of film production at SK Global, expresses that the people of Iceland have been exceptionally warm and inviting towards their production. Furthermore, he and his producing partner from 2521 Entertainment have been genuinely amazed by the film community here in Iceland.

In the image provided, filmmaker Michael Russell Gunn and cinematographer Magdalena Görka are seen preparing to capture a scene at the stunning Blue Lagoon in Iceland, with Gunn taking aim and Görka checking from behind.

Elli Cassata, head of Pegasus Pictures in Iceland and currently collaborating with Gunn and Pierson within the nation, comments that the film industry is expanding at a rapid pace, stating, “It’s becoming increasingly bustling and expansive. The snowball just continues to grow – be it for international or local projects.

For producers worldwide, the primary attraction is undeniably the stunning landscapes; however, our reimbursement program consistently ranks second,” Cassata points out. He highlights that this rebate has evolved significantly over time, starting at 10% and now reaching up to 35%. If a production spends at least $2.8 million, employs 50 locals for at least 30 days of shooting (or 10 days of shooting with an additional 20 days in post-production), they can receive 35% back. Furthermore, Cassata notes that Iceland recoups this money faster than many other European nations.

According to Gunn, the rebate was so attractive that they might have filmed there regardless of whether or not they could utilize the structure itself (as it’s quite small and outdated, posing its own production difficulties).

I’ve been quite taken aback by their talents. I didn’t anticipate such a rich pool of skills from a nation with just 300,000 people,” I found myself remarking. What’s more, many of these individuals have contributed to the making of Christopher Nolan’s ‘Batman Begins’ and ‘Interstellar’, or local productions, showcasing their impressive resume.

According to Pierson, during the filming of exterior scenes in winds of 45 miles per hour, “the crew members possess the appropriate equipment, attire, and are simply accustomed to such conditions.

Pierson added that Elli and his team, along with all department heads, have instilled reassurance and trust in us,” he stated further. They also held discussions with officials from both local and national governments, who have been instrumental in providing essential assistance. (The production arranged for a streetlamp not from the era to be temporarily taken down from the road outside Höfði House.)

Cassata says the industry perhaps grew too quickly so that crews did get short-handed occasionally, but that available crews and equipment rental companies are constantly expanding. If anything, he says, the biggest challenge is finding housing in summer for major productions, given the number of shoots and tourists flocking there. “But you can’t fake this scenery anywhere else,” Cassata says.

The movie features Hope Davis portraying Nancy Reagan, Branka Katic playing Raisa Gorbachev, J.K. Simmons, and Aya Cash among its stars.

The other major challenge, Gunn says, is that this island country is quite expensive.

In the movie, a character remarks, “The best preparation leads to success,” and that’s certainly true in movie-making, but it’s even more crucial when you’re working on an island. As an independent filmmaker, you can’t simply buy your way out of difficulties, so you must always be looking ahead. Filming in Iceland hasn’t been a challenge for us.

If something unexpected happens, Gunn explains, they always manage to figure out a solution. He says, “When friends or family visit us, they often bring items we might need.” As an example, he mentions that the makeup designer’s boyfriend brought the specific contact lenses required for Branka Katic to play Raisa Gorbachev from London. He attributes this resourceful attitude to their independent spirit, which is a key factor in making everything work smoothly.

2024-11-05 22:20

How Jeff Daniels-Jared Harris Drama ’Reykjavik’ Used Authentic Locations to Tell the Story of a Cold War Summit in Iceland

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