“Midnight at the Pera Palace” (Turkish: Pera Palas’ta Gece Yarısı) is a Turkish historical drama with a unique twist of time travel. Directed by Emre Şahin, the show stars Hazal Kaya, Tansu Biçer, Selahattin Paşalı, and James Chalmers. It was released on Netflix on March 3, 2022, with the first season consisting of 8 episodes. The story is inspired by the 2014 historical non-fiction book “Midnight at the Pera Palace: The Birth of Modern Istanbul” by Charles King. The series is set in the real-life Pera Palace Hotel in Istanbul and follows a journalist who is unexpectedly transported to the past. She must stop a plot that could change the course of modern Turkey.
Where was “Midnight at the Pera Palace” filmed?
The entire first season of “Midnight at the Pera Palace” was filmed in Istanbul, Turkey. This vibrant city, known for its rich history and cultural diversity, was the perfect backdrop for the series. The show captures the essence of Istanbul, blending its modern and historical aspects to create a captivating visual experience for the viewers.
Pera Palace Hotel
The main filming location for the series is the Pera Palace Hotel itself. This historic hotel, located in the heart of Istanbul, is one of the city’s most famous landmarks. The Pera Palace was originally built in 1892 and has hosted many famous guests over the years, including Agatha Christie, Ernest Hemingway, and Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the founder of modern Turkey.
In the series, the Pera Palace Hotel is not just a backdrop but a central character in its own right. The hotel’s grandeur and historical significance add depth to the story, making it an essential part of the plot. The filmmakers used the hotel’s authentic interiors to recreate the atmosphere of Istanbul in the early 20th century.
Other Filming Locations in Istanbul
Apart from the Pera Palace Hotel, the show was also filmed in various other locations around Istanbul. The city’s narrow streets, bustling bazaars, and historic buildings helped to bring the story to life. The filmmakers took full advantage of Istanbul’s diverse architecture, using both well-known and lesser-known sites to create a rich and immersive setting for the series.
Some scenes were filmed in the famous Sultanahmet area, home to the Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, and the Topkapi Palace. These iconic landmarks provided a stunning backdrop for some of the show’s key moments. Other scenes were shot in the Beyoğlu district, where the Pera Palace Hotel is located, capturing the lively atmosphere of one of Istanbul’s most vibrant neighborhoods.
Official Trailer
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) – Midnight at the Pera Palace
Q: Where was “Midnight at the Pera Palace” filmed?
A: “Midnight at the Pera Palace” was primarily filmed in Istanbul, Turkey. The main filming location was the historic Pera Palace Hotel, which plays a central role in the series. Additional scenes were shot around various iconic sites in Istanbul, capturing the city’s rich history and vibrant atmosphere.
Q: When was “Midnight at the Pera Palace” filmed?
A: The filming of “Midnight at the Pera Palace” took place in 2021. The production utilized real locations in Istanbul, with a significant focus on the Pera Palace Hotel to authentically depict the historical setting of the story.
3. When was “Midnight at the Pera Palace” released?
“Midnight at the Pera Palace” was released on Netflix on March 3, 2022. The first season consists of 8 episodes, allowing viewers to immerse themselves in the time-travel drama set against the backdrop of early 20th-century Istanbul.
Q: What is “Midnight at the Pera Palace” about?
A: “Midnight at the Pera Palace” follows the story of a journalist who, while staying at the historic Pera Palace Hotel, is mysteriously transported back in time to 1919. She must navigate the political intrigue of the era and prevent a plot that could alter the course of modern Turkey’s history.
Q: Who are the main cast members of “Midnight at the Pera Palace”?
A: The main cast of “Midnight at the Pera Palace” includes Hazal Kaya, who plays the lead role of Esra/Peride. Tansu Biçer stars as Ahmet, while Selahattin Paşalı plays Halit. James Chalmers takes on the role of George. Other key characters include Engin Hepileri as Reşat, Hakan Dinçkol as Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, and Yasemin Szawlowski as Sonia. These actors bring the historical drama to life with their performances, making the series engaging and memorable.
