Summary of Films Filmed in the South Pacific
“Couples Retreat”
This 2009 Vince Vaughn-Jon Favreau comedy was filmed at the St. Regis Resort Bora Bora, which served as the “Eden” resort.
The plot centers around four couples who confront relationship issues through unconventional couples therapy sessions at the resort, accompanied by comedic yoga positions. Although some humor may feel lowbrow, the stunning visuals of Bora Bora are captivating. This enchanting island has never appeared more beautiful.
Also features Kristin Davis, Jason Bateman, Malin Akerman, Kristen Bell, and Faizon Love.
“Cast Away”
Tom Hanks received a Best Actor Oscar nomination for this compelling one-man film, shot on the remote Monuriki island in Fiji’s Mamanuca group.
Directed by Robert Zemeckis, this 2000 narrative follows Chuck Noland, a FedEx executive who survives a plane crash and is presumed dead. Despite being very much alive, Noland faces the sun, the sea, and personal demons while waiting for rescue, with only his inanimate companion, Wilson, for solace.
Also stars Helen Hunt.
“The Bachelorette” Season 6 Finale
Enchanting Tahiti is an idyllic location for romance, as Bachelorette Ali Fedotowski discovered in this two-part season finale filmed in 2010 on the Tahitian islands of Taha’a and Bora Bora.
The emotional journey unfolded at two resorts: Le Taha’a Island Resort & Spa, a secluded private island with panoramic Bora Bora views, and Hilton Bora Bora Nui Resort & Spa, set on a lush motu overlooking Bora Bora’s famous lagoon. Ali chose Roberto, creating intrigue about their future together.
“Mutiny on the Bounty,” 1935
This Hollywood classic, based on the true 18th-century account of Captain Bligh and the mutinous crew of the HMS Bounty, has been adapted into feature films multiple times, including variations titled Mutiny on the Bounty and The Bounty.
The 1935 rendition, featuring Clark Gable as Fletcher Christian and Charles Laughton as Captain Bligh, won the Oscar for Best Picture. While the film is a classic, its black-and-white format and some backlot scenes do not fully showcase the stunning beauty of the South Pacific.
“Mutiny on the Bounty,” 1962
This 1962 version features Marlon Brando as a more conflicted Fletcher Christian, with Trevor Howard as the paranoid Captain Bligh.
Filmed primarily near Bora Bora, this Technicolor adaptation presents breathtaking visuals and marks the beginning of Brando’s romantic connection with Tahiti, including a relationship with co-star Tarita.
“The Bounty”
Partially filmed on Moorea, this vibrant 1984 reimagining stars Mel Gibson as Fletcher Christian and Sir Anthony Hopkins as Captain Bligh, introducing a flashback-driven perspective on the classic rebellion tale. Breaking away from the more theatrical portrayals of earlier adaptations, Gibson’s character is a man of few words while Hopkins’ Bligh is dutiful yet distant from reality.
The scenes showcasing Tahiti evoke the allure of this stunning paradise, illustrating why sailors were reluctant to leave this enchanting locale. The film also features Liam Neeson and Sir Laurence Olivier.
“Survivor”
Often credited with kickstarting the reality TV phenomenon, the original Survivor series, which placed 16 contestants on a remote island off Borneo for 30 days in 2000, has filmed eight of its 21 seasons in the South Pacific.
Host Jeff Probst has overseen numerous seasons, with locations including Marquesas (2002), Vanuatu (2004), Palau (2005), Cook Islands (2006), Fiji (2007), Micronesia/Palau (2008), Samoa (2009), and Heroes Vs. Villains/Samoa (2010). Viewers can revisit the intense competition by watching Survivor DVDs.
“The Blue Lagoon”
This controversial yet nostalgic 1980 tale follows two shipwrecked children, Em and Richard (played by Brooke Shields and Christopher Atkins), as they grow up on a deserted island, struggling with their hormones. While renowned for its stunning cinematography capturing the scenic wonders of the South Pacific, the film’s script and performances often face criticism.
Filmed on Nanuya Levu, an island in Fiji’s Yasawa group, the film offers remarkable visuals despite its narrative shortcomings.
“Return to the Blue Lagoon”
If the original was viewed unfavorably, this convoluted 1991 sequel with Milla Jovovich and Brian Krause may seem a step up due to its striking cinematography.
The plot follows the son of Em and Richard as he is rescued in infancy and marooned on the same island in Fiji’s Yasawa group, this time with his adopted mother and her daughter. Tragedy strikes as the mother dies, propelling the children to navigate their feelings for each other while confronting danger from a dubious sailor.
“The Ultimate Wave Tahiti 3D”
This immersive 2010 IMAX 3D film features American surf champion Kelly Slater and Tahitian surfer Raimana Van Bastolaer as they tackle the immense waves of Tahiti.
While Slater may attract viewers, the breathtaking reef break at Teahupo’o steals the show. Prepare for an exhilarating experience as the magnificent waves involve viewers in their stunning splendor on the big screen.
