As a direct result of the 2019 blockbuster “Knives Out,” the mystery film “Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery” was released.
Directed by Rian Johnson, this murder mystery takes viewers on a thrilling ride filled with suspense, intrigue, and a star-studded cast led by Daniel Craig reprising his role as the famed detective Benoit Blanc.
If you’re a fan of gripping murder mysteries with a touch of opulence, then “Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery” must have left you spellbound.
While the first installment of ‘Knives Out’ unfolded within the grandeur of a Massachusetts mansion, ‘Glass Onion’ opted for a change of scenery, whisking audiences away to the sun-drenched shores of Greece and the picturesque landscapes of Serbia.
This cinematic adventure invites you to explore the fascinating world of filming locations that brought ‘Glass Onion’ to life, from the luxurious Amanzoe Hotel in Porto Heli, Greece, to the charming Greek island of Spetses and the vibrant cityscape of Belgrade, Serbia.
Discovering Villa 20
Director Rian Johnson had a vision for “Glass Onion” that required the perfect setting to come to life. He embarked on a scouting trip, and there, amidst the captivating Greek landscape, he discovered Villa 20 at Amanzoe.
Instantly, he knew that this exquisite villa would become the heart and soul of the film. But it wasn’t just the director who fell in love with Villa 20.
The entire cast and their families found themselves immersed in this luxurious haven during the shoot, creating a unique blend of work and leisure.
As Johnson aptly put it, it was “a summer vacation where we also made a movie.”
Amanzoe
Unveiling Villa 20
Amanzoe is no ordinary resort; it’s a world of its own. Villa 20, the crown jewel of Amanzoe’s villas, is a modern-day Acropolis that cascades down a hillside in six tiers of sculpture-dotted fragrant gardens.
With nine bedrooms, six private pools, and a sprawling 650-square-meter spa, it offers elegant indoor-outdoor living and can accommodate up to 18 guests.
But what truly sets it apart is the awe-inspiring view. Surrounded by olive groves and the Aegean Sea, Villa 20 provides 360-degree vistas that will steal your breath away.
Kathryn Hahn, who plays Claire Debella in “Glass Onion,” described Villa 20 as “embarrassingly luxurious.” It’s a place where every modern need is met while paying homage to the rich Greek culture and its UNESCO-protected ruins.
However, experiencing this level of luxury comes at a price. Villa 20 at Amanzoe is not for the faint of heart; prices start at €1,530 per night for the Pool Pavilion and soar to €13,500 or more per night for the most opulent accommodations.
Google Earth View
If you want to view the Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery filming location in 2D or 3D, click on the address below; it will take you to a Google Earth view of it.
Address: Amanzoe Hotel
Spetses: The Fictional Pisceshite Island
While “Glass Onion” is set on a fictional Greek island named Pisceshite Island, the movie takes advantage of the real Greek beauty found on Spetses, a secluded paradise located not far from Athens.
This island provides the backdrop for many pivotal moments in the film. From horse-drawn carriage rides to exploring boatyards, visiting the Bouboulina Museum, and lounging on secluded beaches, Spetses offers an array of experiences for travelers seeking a tranquil getaway.
To reach the island, the characters in the film arrive at the Port of Dapia, nestled on Spetses’ northeast shore.
Dapia serves as the entry point to Miles Bron’s private island in the movie, offering a picturesque glimpse of Greece’s coastal charm.
Belgrade, Serbia: Crafting On-Screen Magic
While Greece and Spetses provided the stunning outdoor settings for “Glass Onion,” many of the movie’s interior scenes were crafted on a stage in Belgrade, Serbia.
Belgrade, the capital of Serbia, has a rich history and a vibrant culture, making it a fitting location for capturing the essence of certain indoor spaces.
The Glass Onion Atrium and scenes set in New York or the northeastern USA came to life in this European city.
Exploring Belgrade
In its own right, Belgrade deserves a visit. Beogradska Tvrava, a fortification at the meeting of the Danube and Sava rivers, is a must-see for history fans.
The city also boasts excellent shopping, world-class museums, captivating architecture, a thriving nightlife scene, and beautiful parks.
It’s a place where the past seamlessly blends with the present, creating a vibrant atmosphere that’s sure to leave a lasting impression on visitors.
| Location | Description |
|---|---|
| Amanzoe Resort, Porto Heli, Greece | The primary filming location for the movie Serves as the luxurious Glass Onion villa on a private island. Offers spectacular views of olive groves and the Aegean Sea. Villa 20 within Amanzoe Resort is the central mansion in the film and features nine bedrooms, private pools, and a 650-square-meter spa. |
| Spetses, Greece | The fictional Greek island “Pisceshite Island” is where the story is set. The actual filming took place on the real Greek island of Spetses. |
| Porto Heli, Greece | Porto Heli, located on the Peloponnese peninsula, serves as the base. Filming includes scenes in the town and the port of Dapia. |
| Belgrade, Serbia | The primary filming location for the movie Serves as the luxurious Glass Onion villa on a private island. Offers spectacular views of olive groves and the Aegean Sea. Villa 20 within Amanzoe Resort is the central mansion in the film and features nine bedrooms, private pools, and a 650-square-meter spa. |
The Challenges of Filming in Paradise
As with any cinematic endeavor, creating the magic of “Glass Onion” came with its own set of challenges.
Filming took place during the scorching summer of 2021, subjecting the cast and crew to sweltering heat. However, the breathtaking Mediterranean views that surrounded them made enduring the heat more than worthwhile.
“You could tell they’re getting a little stressed with the heat,” shared Rick Heinrichs, the film’s production designer. “I’m sure that was torture for them.
However, there were also several pleasant days. The experience of being present and gazing upon the Mediterranean is truly remarkable.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I visit Villa 20 at Amanzoe?
Absolutely! Amanzoe is open to the public, but keep in mind that this level of luxury comes at a price. Prices for Villa 20 and other accommodations range from €1,530 to €13,500 or more per night, depending on the season and the type of room.
What is the significance of Villa 20 in “Glass Onion”?
Villa 20 serves as the opulent mansion of tech billionaire Miles Bron, setting the stage for the film’s luxurious and mysterious events. It offers breathtaking views and an atmosphere of grandeur.
When was “Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery” released?
The film was released on Netflix on November 23, 2022, following a one-week limited theatrical run.
How much did “Glass Onion: A Knives-Out Mystery” gross at the box office?
The film collected $15 million at the box office, with a budget of $40 million.
Conclusion
- “Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery” is the sequel to the 2019 film “Knives Out,” directed by Rian Johnson and featuring a star-studded cast.
- While “Knives Out” was set in a grand Massachusetts mansion, “Glass Onion” takes place in the luxurious Amanzoe Hotel in Porto Heli, Greece, the Greek island of Spetses, and the vibrant city of Belgrade, Serbia.
- The central filming location in “Glass Onion” is Villa 20 in Amanzoe, known as the crown jewel of the resort and offering breathtaking views and luxury accommodations.
- Spetses, a Greek island near Athens, served as the backdrop for the fictional Pisceshite Island in the movie, providing a tranquil and picturesque setting.
- Belgrade, Serbia, was used for interior scenes and settings portraying New York and the northeastern USA.
- Filming in the Mediterranean during the scorching summer presented challenges for the cast and crew, but the stunning locations made the effort worthwhile.
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