Preparations for filming began in mid-November, when sets were installed and buildings in certain parts of the city were adapted to create the atmosphere of that era. Filming is scheduled for December, and during these days, traffic organization will be changed.
The municipality explains that 'Wild, Wild East' is an upcoming international co-production feature film, part of which is planned to be shot in Kuldiga in December of this year, with additional filming scheduled in Riga and Salacgriva. The visual concept of the film is closely linked to the historical architecture of Kuldiga and the authentic views of the urban environment, which significantly shape the mood of the film and support its artistic intent.
The film is directed by Jan Golubek, one of the leading contemporary Polish directors, known for works such as 'The Swamp' and 'The Double. The Double'. The film is an authorial work in the western genre, set before and during World War II, highlighting the fates of people of different nationalities in the context of tense historical events.
Latvian producer Alise Gelze represents the studio 'White Picture' and ensures both the filming in Latvia and the selection of the creative and technical team.
The plot of the film will transport viewers to Poland in 1943 – a time of German occupation. A total of 71 shots will be filmed in the city, and filming will take place in several locations. During the filming, the streets of Kuldiga will be supplemented with modern details, modern signs and street elements will be installed, artificial snow will be used, and wooden extensions will be built.
To adapt the buildings, an intermediate layer will be used, and all visual changes will occur on it rather than on the facade itself, so the condition of the building will not be harmed. Gentle technologies and materials will be used. Separate extensions on the facades will not be reinforced – they will rely on their own weight and internal technical solutions. After filming, everything will be dismantled and restored, preserving the familiar appearance of the city.
