Homeland: Filming in Puerto Rico: BTS of Tower of David is a documentary that offers a behind-the-scenes look at the production of the third season of the Showtime series, Homeland. This particular episode is dedicated to the filming of one of the most iconic scenes from the show - the infiltration of the Tower of David in Caracas, Venezuela.
Firstly, the documentary showcases the location scouting process, as the show's producers search for a building that would resemble the Tower of David - a real-life skyscraper in Venezuela that was abandoned halfway through its construction due to the country's economic and political instability. The production team eventually settles on Edificio Negra, a 34-story building in San Juan, Puerto Rico. The documentary provides a glimpse of the challenges of filming in a location like this, with its narrow hallways, faulty elevators, and unpredictable weather conditions.
The documentary then delves into the casting and rehearsal process of the scene. The protagonist, CIA officer Carrie Mathison (played by Claire Danes), has to disguise herself as a Muslim woman to enter the Tower of David and gather information about the terrorist Abu Nazir. The crew discusses the importance of getting the cultural references and the language right, as well as the logistics of filming Danes in a veil while still conveying her emotions on screen. The rehearsals involve not only the actors, but also the extras, who have to portray the residents of the Tower of David - a diverse group of people, ranging from petty criminals to families with children.
As the filming begins, the documentary captures the intricacies of the technical aspects of shooting the scene. The production crew has to set up multiple cameras in different angles to capture the action, as well as microphones to capture the dialogue. The director, Lesli Linka Glatter, discusses her vision for the scene and how she wants to convey the sense of tension and urgency that is crucial to the show's narrative. The actors have to perform their lines while navigating through the narrow corridors and staircases of the building, while the extras have to react realistically to the chaos that ensues.
Finally, the documentary shows the post-production process of the scene, as the footage is edited and the special effects are added. The Tower of David scene is a pivotal moment in the show's narrative, and the crew has to make sure that everything is perfect - from the sound effects to the color grading. The scene is a testament to the show's commitment to accuracy and realism, as well as its dedication to telling a compelling story that resonates with audiences.
Overall, Homeland: Filming in Puerto Rico: BTS of Tower of David is a fascinating look at the making of one of the most memorable scenes in the history of the show. The documentary showcases the talent and creativity of the production crew, as well as the dedication and hard work of the cast and crew. It is a must-watch for any fan of the show, as well as anyone interested in the art and craft of filmmaking.
