Strap in for Political Thrillers Filmed & Set in Budapest
Budapest has long been a stand-in for a range of locations over the past decades thanks to the versatility of this great city’s vibe and architecture. But this year there’s a film as well as the ambitious new TV series The Jackal that both feature Budapest starring as her lovely self.
View over the Chain Bridge in Budapest.
Chief of Station (2024)
Directed by Jesse V. Johnson, ‘Chief of Station’ is an action-packed film featuring Aaron Eckhart in the role of Ben Malloy, a retired CIA European Station Chief enjoying a tranquil life. But when tragedy strikes and his wife dies, Malloy reverts to his former existence to find answers. He collaborates with an old adversary, taking him deep into Budapest's shadowy underworld, uncovering unpleasant truths along the way.
Locations such as St. Stephen’s Basilica, Fisherman’s Bastion, Heroes’ Square, and the Chain Bridge can all be spotted in the film.
There’s even a scenic boat ride along the Danube. But being an adrenalin-packed action movie, this isn’t the kind of calm-inducing river cruise you’d send your parents on… things end with an epic gun battle.
It’s always a welcome change to see Budapest’s tourist attractions not masquerading as landmarks from another country. Although, as a local, it is a little distracting to watch a tram trundle along Margit bridge in the background (wondering what mayhem is afoot on that infamous 4-6 line) while trying to concentrate on a very serious Aaron Eckhart talking strategy.
The Day of the Jackal (2024)
As one would expect of a ten-part TV series based on the iconic 1973 film (which was in turn based on a best-selling novel by Frederick Forsyth), numerous easy-on-the-eyes, glamorous locations across Europe are incorporated in this story including the grand dame herself, Budapest.
The titular “Jackal” is an elusive assassin who finds himself the target of an international manhunt after his latest contract. The story, set against a backdrop of modern political intrigue, follows a British intelligence officer who attempts to bring down the assassin in a suspense-filled game of cat and mouse.
Starring Eddie Redmayne and Lashana Lynch, The Day of the Jackal allows Budapest to shine with panoramic scenes of the city as the Jackal once again eludes detection. We see him (played by Redmayne) hurrying down steps from the newly renovated Keleti train station (perhaps trying to find which underpass exit will take him to the McDonald’s across the road). We also catch him hanging out at Heroes’ Square–beloved by skaters, architectural buffs and high-profile assassins alike.
Truth be told, no matter how many international productions come to Budapest to film, I don’t think I will ever tire from seeing the different faces of this truly mesmerizing city on the screen.
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