Internationally recognised art and literary critic, writer and cultural producer. Published in ELLE, Glamour, Esquire and Cosmopolitan; member of the Union of Writers.
The new series Poor Things, based on the novel by Alasdair Gray, is a dark comedy that follows the adventures of Bella Baxter, a young woman who is brought back to life by a mad scientist after drowning herself. The show stars Emma Stone as Bella, Willem Dafoe as her creator, and Mark Ruffalo as her husband.
The series is set in Victorian Glasgow, but it was not filmed there. In fact, the production team chose several locations across Europe to recreate the atmosphere of the 19th century city. Here are some of the stunning places where Poor Things was filmed.
Prague, Czech Republic
Prague, the capital of the Czech Republic, is known for its beautiful architecture, rich history, and cultural heritage. The city has a Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque style that makes it a perfect setting for a Victorian story. Prague was used as the main location for Poor Things, and many scenes were filmed in its historic centre, such as the Old Town Square, the Charles Bridge, and the Prague Castle.
Prague also has a number of museums, theatres, and libraries that served as the backdrop for some of the scenes in the series. For example, the Strahov Monastery Library, one of the oldest and largest libraries in the world, was used as the laboratory where Bella was resurrected. The National Theatre, a stunning neo-Renaissance building, was used as the venue for a ball where Bella meets some of the other characters.
Dubrovnik, Croatia
Dubrovnik, a city on the Adriatic Sea, is famous for its medieval walls, fortresses, and churches. The city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a popular tourist destination. Dubrovnik was also used as a filming location for Poor Things, especially for the scenes that take place near the sea or on a ship.
Dubrovnik’s Old Town, with its narrow streets, stone houses, and fountains, was used to portray some of the poorer areas of Glasgow, where Bella encounters poverty, crime, and violence. The city’s harbour, with its boats and docks, was used to show Bella’s escape from her husband and her journey to France. The Lovrijenac Fortress, a 16th century bastion, was used as the prison where Bella is held captive by a mysterious villain.
Bordeaux, France
Bordeaux, a port city in southwestern France, is known for its wine, cuisine, and art. The city has a classical and neoclassical style that reflects its prosperity and elegance. Bordeaux was used as a filming location for Poor Things, mainly for the scenes that take place in France, where Bella discovers a new life and a new love.
Bordeaux’s Grand Theatre, a magnificent 18th century opera house, was used as the setting for a performance where Bella meets a famous singer. The Place de la Bourse, a square with a fountain and a reflecting pool, was used as the location for a romantic scene where Bella and her lover kiss under the moonlight. The Jardin Public, a park with a botanical garden and a lake, was used as the place where Bella enjoys a picnic with her friends.
