The film “Treasure,” directed by Julia von Heinz, is a 2024 tragicomedy that has won many hearts. It is based on Lily Brett’s 1999 novel, Too Many Men. The film has an intriguing cast, including Lena Dunham, Stephen Fry, and Zbigniew Zamachowski. Set in 1990, the narrative follows Ruth, an American journalist, and her father, Edek, as they go to Poland. Edek, a Holocaust survivor, finds it difficult to confront his history, resulting in a combination of emotional and delightfully uncomfortable scenes. The film created an impression at the 74th Berlin International Film Festival and is scheduled for a wide distribution in the United States on June 14, 2024.
Overview of the Plot
In “Treasure,” we follow Ruth, a dedicated American journalist, as she embarks on a journey to Poland with her father, Edek. Their mission is to explore the places from Edek’s childhood. However, the trip doesn’t go as smoothly as planned. Edek, haunted by memories of the Holocaust, finds it emotionally challenging to face his past. His resistance results in several humorous and poignant situations. This blend of tragedy and comedy makes the film a unique cinematic experience. The stunning locations chosen for the film play a significant role in bringing this emotional journey to life.
Filming Locations
Filming in Poland: Warsaw, Mazowieckie, Poland
Poland is the primary backdrop for “Treasure,” and the film captures its beauty and history in remarkable detail. The capital city, Warsaw, known for its rich history and modern vibrancy, was one of the main filming locations. Warsaw, situated on the banks of the Vistula River, is the largest city in Poland. With a population of approximately 1.765 million as of 2017, Warsaw is a city that blends tradition with contemporary life.
The film crew explored various parts of Warsaw to capture its essence. They filmed in iconic places such as the Warsaw Old Town, with its charming cobblestone streets and historical buildings. The vibrant neon signs, especially near the Neon Museum, added a unique touch to the film’s aesthetic. The city’s blend of old and new architecture provided a perfect backdrop for the contrasting themes of the film.
Łódź, Poland: Why Was Łódź Chosen for Filming?
Another significant location for “Treasure” is Łódź, a city located in central Poland. Known for its industrial heritage, Łódź is the third-largest city in the country. The filmmakers chose Łódź for its authentic Polish charm and its mix of historical and industrial settings. The city’s Manufaktura complex, a former factory turned cultural and commercial hub, offered an interesting backdrop for various scenes. The filmmakers utilized the city’s rich textile industry history to enhance the film’s narrative.
Kraków, Poland: How Did Kraków’s Scenic Beauty Enhance the Film?
Kraków, another gem of Poland, was also used as a filming site. Kraków is one of Poland’s oldest and most attractive cities, known for its well-preserved medieval core and thriving cultural scene. The film depicts the lovely alleys of Kraków’s Old Town, featuring the breathtaking Main Market Square and the ancient Wawel Castle. The quiet splendor of the Vistula River running through the city gave a calming aspect to the visually appealing story. The producers also used the city’s famous Kazimierz area, which is recognized for its Jewish legacy, to relate Edek’s background to the film’s themes.
Filming in Germany: Berlin, Germany
Germany, with its rich landscapes and historical significance, provided additional filming locations for “Treasure.” The capital city, Berlin, known for its dynamic art scene, diverse architecture, and vibrant nightlife, was a key location. Berlin’s historical landmarks, including the Brandenburg Gate and the Berlin Wall, offered a poignant backdrop for the film. The city’s modern and historical elements provided a striking contrast that complemented the film’s themes of memory and reconciliation.
Berlin’s large public parks and urban environs enabled the filmmakers to capture the spirit of both personal and historical storylines. The city’s busy streets and quiet green areas added to the film’s emotional and visual richness. The combination of Berlin’s creative mood and historical relevance provided depth to the film’s depiction of Edek’s journey through his recollections.
Behind the Scenes of ‘Treasure’: What Did the Actors Share About Their Experience?
During the production of “Treasure,” the actors and crew offered some behind-the-scenes anecdotes that emphasized their experiences. On April 24, 2023, Lena Dunham, who plays Ruth, shared a behind-the-scenes shot on social media. She stated her enthusiasm for working on the picture and commended its director, Michael Cristofer. Dunham emphasized that the film’s emotional depth and distinct locales made the experience unforgettable for everyone involved.
In conclusion, “Treasure” expertly employs its filming locales to enhance the narrative and emotional effect of the story. The film’s realism and depth are enhanced by the selections of Poland and Germany, both of which have rich cultural and historical landscapes. From the hectic streets of Warsaw and Berlin to the peaceful beauty of Kraków, each site is important in bringing Ruth and Edek’s story to life. The juxtaposition of these different landscapes, as well as the film’s tragic and amusing tale, make “Treasure” an engaging cinematic experience for moviegoers.
Official Trailer
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) – Treasure
Q: Where Was ‘Treasure’ Filmed?
A: ‘Treasure’ was primarily filmed in Poland and Germany. Key Polish locations include Warsaw, Łódź, and Kraków. In Germany, significant scenes were shot in Berlin. These cities provided a rich historical and cultural backdrop that was essential for the film’s narrative.
Q: When Did the Filming of ‘Treasure’ Take Place?
A: The filming of ‘Treasure’ began on February 21, 2023, and continued until May 7, 2023. The production team captured the film’s diverse scenes over a span of a little more than two months, utilizing various locations across Poland and Germany.
Q: When Is the Release Date for ‘Treasure’?
A: ‘Treasure’ was released in the United States on June 14, 2024.
Q: What Cities in Poland Were Used for Filming ‘Treasure’?
A: In Poland, the film was shot in the cities of Warsaw, Łódź, and Kraków. These locations were chosen for their historical significance and picturesque settings, which aligned perfectly with the film’s storyline.
Q: What Scenes Were Filmed in Berlin for ‘Treasure’?
A: In Berlin, various scenes that required a dynamic urban environment were filmed. The city’s iconic landmarks, such as the Brandenburg Gate and remnants of the Berlin Wall, provided a compelling backdrop that enhanced the film’s exploration of memory and history.
