Ex Machina Filming Location in a Haunted Mansion

With Ex Machina filming location at the forefront, this article opens a window to a psychological thriller set in an isolated mansion, revealing the intricate details that shape the tone of the movie.

Ex Machina, a 2014 sci-fi thriller film directed by Alex Garland, takes place primarily in a secluded estate, where a young programmer named Caleb is invited for a week-long visit to administer the Turing test to an intelligent humanoid robot, Ava.

Identifying Key Filming Locations of Ex Machina

The film Ex Machina, directed by Alex Garland, is a thought-provoking sci-fi thriller that explores the themes of artificial intelligence, technology, and humanity. The movie’s setting, which is a remote Welsh countryside estate, plays a significant role in shaping the narrative and atmosphere of the film. In this section, we will delve into the key filming locations of Ex Machina and examine their significance in the movie.

For Ex Machina, the primary filming location was the National Trust’s Bryntirion House in North Wales. This magnificent estate, which served as the exterior of the Caleb’s family home in the movie, boasts a stunning architectural design that perfectly complements the thriller’s eerie and isolated atmosphere.

Exteriors of the Caleb’s family home and the AI research facility

The exterior scenes of the Caleb’s family home were filmed at Bryntirion House in North Wales, which is now known as the ‘Gwydyr Park Estate’. This estate is situated in an isolated location, surrounded by woodland and mountains, which contributes to its remote and secluded ambiance. In contrast, the interior scenes of the home were filmed at the Harlech House, a mansion in North Wales that is often used as a filming location.

The AI research facility, where Nathan Bateman (played by Oscar Isaac) conducts his research on Ava (played by Alicia Vikander), was primarily filmed at the ‘Bryntirion Hall’ within the Gwydyr Park Estate.

Interior scenes of the AI research facility

The interior scenes of the AI research facility were largely filmed at the Harlech House, where the filmmakers utilized its grandiose architecture to create an atmosphere of sophistication and intelligence. This contrasts with the rustic and isolated environment of the exterior scenes, further emphasizing the disconnect between the character’s intellectual pursuits and the natural world.

The woods and the estate at night

The woods surrounding the estate played a significant role in creating a sense of foreboding and unease, particularly during nighttime scenes when the character Caleb explores the woods. The filmmakers skillfully used the natural environment to build tension and create a sense of suspense.

The remote location of the estate, combined with the dark and isolated atmosphere of the woods at night, perfectly captures the mood and tone of Ex Machina, immersing the audience in a world of mystery, technology, and human emotion.

Visual Storytelling through Filming Locations

Ex Machina Filming Location in a Haunted Mansion

The use of cinematography in Ex Machina played a pivotal role in elevating the film’s unsettling atmosphere, expertly capturing the eerie and foreboding environments that underpinned the narrative. Shot in the midst of a stunning wilderness setting, the film’s visuals evoke an unsettling sense of isolation, where the lines between reality and artifice blur.

Director Alex Garland skillfully employed the filming locations to instil a sense of tension and unease, often juxtaposing the beauty of nature with the cold, industrial architecture of the Murdin facility. This visual contrast serves to heighten the audience’s discomfort, mirroring the protagonist Caleb’s growing unease as he navigates the mysterious world of the AI.

Tension through Visual Contrast

The dichotomy between natural and industrial landscapes served to heighten the unsettling atmosphere in Ex Machina.

In one of the film’s earliest scenes, Caleb arrives at the Murdin facility, surrounded by the lush expanse of English countryside. However, as he steps into the facility, the stark, industrial architecture creates an instant sense of disorientation. This jarring juxtaposition foreshadows the tension that will eventually unfold as Caleb delves deeper into the facility.

Creating Unease with Cinematography

The cinematography in Ex Machina also utilised long, unbroken takes to create a sense of unease. These scenes would often linger on the characters, allowing the audience an unnerving degree of intimacy.

In a pivotal scene, Caleb engages in a tense conversation with Nathan’s AI creation, Ava. The camera pans and orbits the characters, creating a sense of claustrophobia. As the conversation progresses, Caleb becomes increasingly unsettled, and the camera’s movements serve to underscore his growing unease.

Storytelling through Visual Storytelling

Alex Garland utilised the cinematography to reveal subtle cues that underscore the characters’ emotional states.

As Ava begins to exhibit signs of sentience, the camera lingers on her face, showcasing a depth of emotion that belies her artificial nature. These small moments, though often overlooked, serve as crucial plot points that underscore the complexities of Ava’s character.

Ava’s character is further fleshed out as the film progresses, with Garland’s use of cinematography providing a nuanced and empathetic portrait of a sentient being on the cusp of self-discovery.

Filming Locations that Contributed to the Plot: Ex Machina Filming Location

The film’s carefully selected locations did more than just provide a visually stunning backdrop; they expertly wove themselves into the narrative, influencing the characters and their interactions. As the story unfolds, these locations reveal a complex web of themes and ideas, further enriching the viewing experience.

The Isolated Setting: Nathan’s House

Dominating the landscape of Ex Machina is Nathan’s isolated mansion, an imposing and foreboding structure that serves as the central hub of the story. This eerie, modernist abode, loosely inspired by the real-life house from Stanley Kubrick’s The Shining, is more than just a setting – it’s a character in its own right. The house, with its sleek lines, expansive windows, and labyrinthine corridors, exudes an air of sterile, calculated control, mirroring Nathan’s detached and manipulative personality. This is a space where the lines between technology and humanity are blurred, where the boundaries of ethics and morality are constantly pushed.

The house’s design and architecture are deliberately meant to evoke a sense of unease and discomfort, reflecting both Nathan’s own twisted psyche and the dark, futuristic world of artificial intelligence.
The vast, dimly lit spaces and sparse furnishings create an aura of detachment, underscoring the artificial nature of the relationships between the characters.
The house’s isolated location, surrounded by a dense, eerie forest, further reinforces the sense of confinement and disconnection from the outside world.

The Forest as Symbolic Landscape

Beyond the confines of the house, the forest plays a significant role in the narrative as a potent symbol of freedom and confinement. This vast, dark expanse serves as a counterpoint to the sterile, controlled environment of the house, representing the untamed, uncharted territories of the human mind and the natural world. The forest is a space of mystery, where the rules of the house and the strictures of society are temporarily suspended, allowing the characters to engage in unscripted, primal interactions.

The forest, teeming with life and unpredictability, serves as a mirror to the artificial, predetermined world of the house, where the characters are constantly being manipulated and controlled.
The trees, with their gnarled branches and twisted forms, stand as a testament to the cyclical nature of life and death, mirroring the characters’ own existential journeys.
The forest’s role as a threshold between the house’s artificial world and the unknown, primal forces of nature serves as a poignant reminder of the human condition, where technology and nature are inextricably linked.

Other Key Locations

While Nathan’s house and the forest dominate the narrative, other key locations – the hotel room where Caleb first learns about the experiment, the laboratory where Ava’s advanced AI is revealed, and the abandoned warehouse where Caleb finally breaks free from his prison – each contribute to the intricate tapestry of the story, weaving together the complex themes and ideas that underpin Ex Machina.

The hotel room, where Caleb first learns about the experiment and meets Nathan, serves as a catalyst for the events that follow, setting the stage for the cat-and-mouse game that ensues.
The laboratory, where Ava’s advanced AI is revealed, represents the cutting-edge technology that drives the plot and fuels Nathan’s obsession with artificial intelligence.
The abandoned warehouse, where Caleb finally breaks free from his prison and confronts Ava, serves as a symbol of liberation and the human desire for freedom and autonomy.

Recreating Iconic Locations for the Film

The production team of Ex Machina masterfully recreated and modified real-world locations to bring the film’s eerie and isolated atmosphere to life. By combining special effects and set design, they were able to achieve the desired look and immerse the audience in the world of the story. In this section, we will delve into the techniques used to recreate iconic locations and explore their contributions to the overall aesthetic of the movie.

Recreating the Isolated Landscape

To capture the film’s isolated and rural atmosphere, the production team chose to film on location in various remote areas in the countryside. They recreated the landscape of the film’s setting, the remote English countryside, by incorporating natural scenery and man-made features into the set design. The team made use of camera angles and lighting to create a sense of isolation and distance from civilization.

The film’s production team selected various locations in the UK, such as the Lake District and the Welsh countryside, to recreate the film’s isolated landscape. They worked closely with local authorities and landowners to secure permission to film in these sensitive areas.

The Design of the Murkwood Manor

The Murkwood Manor, the film’s central location, was recreated using a combination of set design and special effects. The team wanted to create a sense of eeriness and discomfort, and they achieved this by using unusual angles, lighting, and camera movements.

Inside the manor, the production team designed the rooms to be small and claustrophobic, with low ceilings and heavy drapery. This created a sense of confinement and isolation, mirroring the protagonist Nathan’s mental state.

The manor’s exterior was recreated using a combination of practical sets and visual effects. The team used special effects to create the illusion of a vast, isolated landscape, and to blur the lines between reality and the protagonist’s perception of it.

The Use of Miniatures and Scale Models

The production team made extensive use of miniatures and scale models to create the film’s intricate sets and environments. They built detailed miniatures of the manor’s rooms, corridors, and external features, which were then used in conjunction with live-action footage to create the illusion of depth and scale.

The scale models were used to capture the precise details of each location, from the intricate patterns on the manor’s walls to the precise layout of the corridors. This allowed the production team to create a highly detailed and realistic environment, which was essential to the film’s atmosphere and tension.

The Importance of Lighting

Lighting played a crucial role in creating the film’s isolated and eerie atmosphere. The production team used a combination of natural light and artificial lighting to capture the sense of isolation and confinement.

Inside the manor, the team used softbox lights and practical sources to create a warm, inviting glow. This contrasted starkly with the cold, hard light of the exterior, which created a sense of bleakness and isolation.

The team also made use of atmospheric effects, such as mist and fog, to blur the lines between reality and the protagonist’s perception of it. This added to the sense of unease and uncertainty that pervades the film.

The Use of Practical Effects

The production team made use of practical effects to create the film’s various visual elements, from the manor’s corridors to the outdoor landscapes. They built intricate sets and environments, which were then used to create the illusion of depth and scale.

The team also made use of practical effects, such as wire and pulley systems, to create the film’s intricate camera movements and angles. This allowed them to capture the precise details of the environment, while also creating a sense of tension and unease.

The Importance of Sound Design

Sound design played a crucial role in creating the film’s isolated and eerie atmosphere. The production team used a combination of natural and artificial sound effects to capture the sense of isolation and confinement.

Inside the manor, the team used soft, muted sounds to create a sense of quiet and stillness. This contrasted starkly with the loud, jarring sounds of the exterior, which created a sense of disruption and unease.

The team also made use of atmospheric sound effects, such as creaking doors and howling wind, to blur the lines between reality and the protagonist’s perception of it. This added to the sense of unease and uncertainty that pervades the film.

Comparing On-Screen and Real-World Locations

The film Ex Machina masterfully blurs the lines between reality and fantasy, with its on-screen locations expertly crafted to transport viewers into the eerie and isolated world of Nathan Bateman’s secluded mansion. While the film’s narrative is deeply rooted in the physical space, the creative liberties taken in the production design add an extra layer of complexity to the story.

Comparing the on-screen locations with their real-world counterparts reveals subtle yet significant discrepancies that serve to enhance the overall narrative. This selective alteration of reality enables the audience to engage with the story on a deeper level, drawing parallels between the worlds presented on-screen and the real-world inspirations that sparked them.

Modifications to Create an Isolated Atmosphere

To create an isolated and eerie atmosphere, the production team significantly modified the real-world locations to fit the film’s narrative. For instance, the exterior shots of the isolated mansion were primarily filmed at the stunning Haldon Estate in Devon, England. Although the real-world estate boasts lush greenery and a picturesque landscape, the film’s version appears desolate and barren, effectively conveying Nathan’s obsessive personality and his isolated world.

The interior scenes were shot at the Harmondsworth Lodge in West London, which was transformed into the sleek and modernist mansion that serves as Nathan’s lair. The production team employed an extensive amount of set dressing to create the illusion of a luxurious and cutting-edge abode, further emphasizing Nathan’s control and manipulation.

Real-World Locations Modified to Reflect the Narrative

Several real-world locations underwent significant modifications to conform to the narrative’s tone and aesthetic. One such example is the use of the stunning Ashridge House in Hertfordshire, which served as an inspiration for the isolated location where Caleb first interacts with Ava. While the real-world estate has impressive architecture and beautiful gardens, the film’s adaptation presents the location as a dilapidated and forgotten relic, reinforcing Nathan’s disregard for social norms and relationships.

Another notable example is the use of the scenic Lake District, where certain scenes were shot to depict Caleb’s initial arrival at the mansion. Although the real-world landscape boasts breathtaking scenery, the film’s adaptation presents this location as a foreboding and intimidating world, effectively underscoring the character’s fear and uncertainty.

Notable Camera Angles and Movements in Filming Locations

The cinematography in Ex Machina was a deliberate choice to create a sense of unease and tension among the viewers. Director Alex Garland employed a variety of camera angles and movements that added to the emotional impact of the scenes. From the claustrophobic shots that made the audience feel trapped to the sweeping vistas that highlighted the beauty of nature, every camera move was carefully thought out to contribute to the narrative’s emotional depth.

Low-Angle Shots in the Living Room

The use of low-angle shots in the living room, where Nathan’s character is interacting with Caleb, created a sense of unease and power imbalance. The low angles made Nathan appear taller and more imposing, highlighting his dominant position in the conversation. This shot selection choice emphasizes the power dynamics at play in their relationship, adding to the tension that pervades the scene.

Point-of-View Shots in the Forest

The use of point-of-view shots in the forest where Caleb is trying to escape or interact with Ava, added to the sense of unease and confusion. The audience is put in Caleb’s shoes, mirroring his thoughts and perceptions, making the viewer feel a sense of disorientation and fear. This shot choice emphasizes the character’s emotional state and heightens the sense of danger, creating a more immersive and engaging experience.

Tracking Shots in the Kitchen

The use of tracking shots in the kitchen, where Ava is exploring her environment, created a sense of fluidity and curiosity. The smooth movement of the shots made Ava appear more human, highlighting her growing sense of confidence and independence. This shot choice emphasizes Ava’s emotional development and adds to the sense of tension, as her newfound confidence challenges the boundaries of her existence.

Panoramic Shots of the Estate

The use of panoramic shots of the estate, showcasing its grandeur and beauty, served as a foil to the claustrophobic and uneasy atmosphere of the living room. The sweeping vistas highlighted the vastness of nature, emphasizing the themes of freedom, isolation, and the blurring of lines between reality and fantasy. This shot choice reinforces the narrative’s central themes and adds depth to the emotional resonance of the story.

Static shots of Ava’s Emotions

The use of static shots when Ava is expressing her emotions, showcased the character’s vulnerability and emotional depth. The lack of camera movement added to the sense of intimacy and sincerity, making Ava’s emotional expressions feel more authentic and raw. This shot choice highlights Ava’s emotional development and adds to the sense of tension, as her growing emotions challenge the boundaries of her existence.

Designing Filming Locations with Aesthetics in Mind

The art of designing filming locations with aesthetics in mind is a crucial aspect of creating a visually stunning and immersive cinematic experience. In the film Ex Machina, the production design and art direction played a significant role in shaping the overall aesthetic of the movie. The film’s director, Alex Garland, worked closely with production designer Mark Digby to bring his vision to life.

The film’s aesthetic was achieved by creating a sense of unease and tension through the use of muted colors, sleek lines, and modern architecture. The production design team achieved this by incorporating elements such as industrial-style lighting, dark color palettes, and minimalist furniture. The goal was to create a sense of discomfort and unease, reflecting the themes of isolation and psychological manipulation that are present throughout the film.

Notable Sets and Props

The film’s production design featured several notable sets and props that contributed to the overall visual appeal. One of the most striking elements was the modern and minimalist mansion where Caleb’s stay was centered on. The interior design of the house featured a blend of sleek lines, dark colors, and industrial-style lighting, creating a sense of modernity and cutting-edge technology.

The set design team also created several other notable locations, including the AI laboratory where Caleb first meets Ava, and the isolated forest clearing where he and Nathan have their intense conversation. The use of natural settings and modern architecture added to the film’s overall aesthetic, creating a sense of contrast between the natural world and the artificial world of the AI.

Precise Planning and Attention to Detail

To achieve the desired aesthetic, the production design team worked closely with the director and other departments to ensure that every detail was carefully planned and executed. This included working with the cinematographer to ensure that the camera movements and lighting were in line with the production design.

The attention to detail was evident in the creation of Ava’s character, where every aspect of her appearance and behavior was carefully considered to create a sense of realism and believability. The design team worked closely with the actors to ensure that Ava’s movements and expressions were in line with the production design, creating a seamless and immersive experience for the audience.

Aesthetic Achievements, Ex machina filming location

The success of the film’s aesthetic can be measured in several ways. Firstly, the use of muted colors, sleek lines, and modern architecture created a sense of unease and tension that perfectly reflected the themes of the film. The production design team achieved this by incorporating elements such as industrial-style lighting, dark color palettes, and minimalist furniture.

The attention to detail and precise planning also created a sense of realism and believability, making the film’s world feel more immersive and engaging. The use of natural settings and modern architecture added to the film’s overall aesthetic, creating a sense of contrast between the natural world and the artificial world of the AI.

Final Thoughts

The combination of breathtaking cinematography and thought-provoking themes makes Ex Machina an engaging and chilling watch, allowing the audience to immerse themselves in a world of artificial intelligence and human obsession.

From the eerie mansion to the vast, mysterious forest, the filming locations in Ex Machina masterfully contribute to the creation of a tense and thrilling atmosphere, keeping viewers on the edge of their seats as they navigate the complex relationships between the characters.