Bali isn't just a paradise Island for tourists from many countries, but Bali has also caught the eye of Hollywood producers and filmmakers. With its stunning landscapes, rich culture, and exotic vibe, the Island of the Gods has become more than just a backdrop; it’s often a character in the story itself.

For those who have never been to Bali, and only know of it through social media, books, or travelers’ stories, it’s important to understand that Bali is just one of over 17,000 islands in the vast archipelago of Indonesia, which is located in South East Asia.

What sets Bali apart is its rich and unique local Balinese culture combined with spiritual traditions. Whenever you visit the island you will see temples, beaches, rice fields, arts and crafts scene, surfing and diving spots.

Interestingly, Bali is Indonesia’s only Hindu-majority island, making it truly unlike anywhere else in the country.

I’ve been coming and going, and living in Bali for many years, and watching films produced in Bali, so if you've ever watched a movie and thought, "Where is that beautiful place?" there’s a good chance it might’ve been Bali.

Here are 5 Hollywood popular films. Light, Camera and Bali!

1. Eat Pray Love (2010)

Let’s start with the obvious one. Eat Pray Love, starring Julia Roberts, practically put Bali on the global movie map. Based on the best-selling memoir by Elizabeth Gilbert, the “Pray” chapter of the story takes place in Ubud. Think rice terraces, spiritual healers, serene temples, and soulful connections with locals.

After the film’s release, the actual locations used in the movie became tourist hotspots, with fans flocking to Ubud to "follow in Julia Roberts’ footsteps." It’s the ultimate spiritual-meets-Hollywood travel inspiration.

2. Alex Cross (2012)

You might not associate a crime thriller with Bali, but Alex Cross, starring Tyler Perry and Matthew Fox, used the island for a few key scenes. While the Bali moments were brief, they added a lush, tropical intensity that contrasted well with the film’s darker tone.

It’s a reminder that Bali isn't just serene and spiritual—it can also be edgy and dramatic.

3. Savages (2012)

Directed by Oliver Stone and featuring Blake Lively, Taylor Kitsch, and John Travolta, Savages is a gritty drama about the drug trade in California. But it also features some dreamy Bali beach scenes that stand in stark contrast to the film’s violent storyline.

In the movie, Bali represents the freedom escape from chaos. For the characters, it’s a symbol of peace and paradise. For the audience, it’s pure travel envy.

4. The Fall (2006)

This lesser-known but visually stunning film by Tarsem Singh is a cinematic masterpiece. With global locations stitched into an imaginative storyline, Bali makes an appearance through traditional dances and the intricate architecture of Balinese temples.

If you’re into artsy, visually rich films with a touch of the surreal. The Fall is worth watching. Bali’s role might be short, but it’s beautifully unforgettable.

5. Infinity (1996)

This biographical film about physicist Richard Feynman includes scenes shot in Bali to portray a serene, tropical escape. While Bali doesn’t play a huge part in the story, it adds emotional depth and a sense of calm that supports the character’s inner journey.

Sometimes, all it takes is a few shots of swaying palms and golden sunsets to evoke the right emotion.

So, Why Does Hollywood Love Bali?

It’s not just the postcard-perfect beaches or the lush green rice fields though, let’s be honest, those help. Bali offers something unique: atmosphere. Whether it's spiritual, exotic, peaceful, or dramatic, the island provides a vibe that’s hard to recreate anywhere else.

Filmmakers love how Bali can transform from a serene sanctuary in Eat Pray Love to a gritty playground in Alex Cross. It’s versatile, visually stunning, and rich in cultural depth.

According to the data researched by Bali’s Tourism Office recently, films like Eat Pray Love even led to a noticeable increase in foreign visitors, many coming just to experience the places shown in the movie. Film tourism is real, and Bali is a perfect example of how cinema can boost cultural and travel interest.

Anyway…..

Bali continues to shine on the global stage, not just as a vacation or sport spot, but as a cinematic gem. Whether you're a film buff, a traveler, or someone who just loves a good story, exploring Bali through the lens of Hollywood adds a whole new layer of appreciation.

Next time you're in Bali, why not visit some of these filming locations? Who knows, you might just feel like you're starring in your own movie. 

Written by Myrna Soeryo from Bali in Your Hand I Photo Courtesy: Myrna Soeryo I Edited by Naratama