Exploring the Filming Locations of the Legendary Monkey King- A Journey Behind the Scenes
Where was Monkey King filmed? This question often arises among fans of the classic Chinese novel “Journey to the West” and its numerous adaptations. The Monkey King, also known as Sun Wukong, is a central figure in the story, and his adventures have captivated audiences for centuries. The filming locations for the various adaptations of this epic tale have played a significant role in shaping the visual experience of the Monkey King’s journey.
The original novel, written by Wu Cheng’en in the 16th century, provides a rich tapestry of settings and landscapes that have inspired filmmakers over the years. One of the earliest adaptations, the 1960s Chinese film “The Monkey King,” was filmed primarily in China. The movie’s director, Xie Fei, chose locations that reflected the mystical and magical atmosphere of the story. Key filming sites included the Leshan Giant Buddha in Sichuan Province, the ancient city of Kaifeng in Henan Province, and the scenic Zhangjiajie in Hunan Province.
Another notable adaptation, the 2016 Chinese fantasy film “The Monkey King: Hero Is Back,” directed by Yimou Zhang, took a different approach to filming. While still set in China, the movie incorporated a variety of locations to create a visually stunning portrayal of the Monkey King’s world. The team behind the film traveled to places like the Yellow Mountains in Anhui Province, the Wudang Mountains in Hubei Province, and the Li River in Guangxi Province. These locations provided the perfect backdrop for the film’s epic battle scenes and breathtaking landscapes.
In addition to Chinese adaptations, the Monkey King has been featured in films from other countries, such as the 1970s Japanese animated series “Monkey Magic” and the 2014 American film “The Monkey King: Journey to the West.” These adaptations often utilize different filming techniques and locations to bring the story to life. For example, “The Monkey King: Journey to the West” starred by Chow Yun-fat was filmed in various countries, including China, Thailand, and the United States, to capture the diverse settings and cultures mentioned in the novel.
The filming locations for the Monkey King have not only contributed to the visual appeal of the story but have also provided a deeper understanding of the cultural and historical context of the novel. As audiences continue to explore the various adaptations of “Journey to the West,” the question of where Monkey King was filmed remains a fascinating topic of discussion, offering a glimpse into the creative process behind these cinematic masterpieces.
