Once considered one of Hollywood’s power couples, Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie captivated audiences with their on-screen chemistry and off-screen romance. In 2015, the couple embarked on a unique artistic endeavor when they decided to film the romantic drama “By The Sea” in the picturesque Mediterranean country of Malta. As they portrayed a married couple in the film, reports surfaced about the intense and intimate scenes they would be shooting together. Little did anyone know that their real-life relationship would soon face challenges, adding an additional layer of complexity to their on-screen performances.
Filming Steamy Scenes in Malta:
Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie chose Malta as the backdrop for their intimate scenes in “By The Sea.” This beautiful European country, located in the Mediterranean Sea, provided the perfect setting for their character-driven drama. According to insiders, the couple filmed some of the steamy segments just down the street from where their family was staying, adding a personal touch to their professional collaboration.
The production selected Mgarr ix-Xini Bay in Gozo, one of Malta’s islands, as the primary shooting location. Their visit to Malta was expected to last approximately 10 weeks, giving them ample time to delve into their roles and explore the depths of their characters’ complex relationship. It was clear from early reports that “By The Sea” was not going to be a typical Hollywood blockbuster; instead, it promised to be an experimental and independent film, offering Pitt and Jolie the opportunity to explore their acting abilities in a raw and unfiltered manner.
Challenges and Reflections:
Angelina Jolie, who also directed the film, shared her thoughts on the unconventional experience of shooting intimate scenes with her real-life husband. She described the peculiarities of being nude in a bathtub with an iPad displaying the shot outside, while directing Brad Pitt to enter the scene and engage in lovemaking in front of a crew of cameramen. Jolie acknowledged the discomfort she felt in that situation, highlighting the delicate balance between artistic freedom and personal boundaries.
Brad Pitt, on the other hand, took on the role of a supportive partner during the filming process. He assumed the responsibility of towel duty, covering Jolie when necessary and ensuring her comfort on set. While their professional collaboration allowed them to explore their artistic sides, it also presented unique challenges due to the intimate nature of their scenes. Despite the complexities, both actors embraced the opportunity to push their boundaries and experiment with their craft.
Legacy and Reflections:
“By The Sea” showcased Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie’s talent and commitment to their craft. The film may not have achieved mainstream success, but it served as a testament to the couple’s willingness to explore unconventional projects. Unfortunately, shortly after the film’s release, their relationship encountered difficulties, leading to their separation. The emotional intensity captured on screen took on a different meaning in light of their real-life struggles.
While “By The Sea” marked a significant milestone in Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie’s artistic collaboration, it also signified a turning point in their personal lives. Jolie hinted at retirement from acting around the time of the film’s release, indicating a desire to shift her focus to other endeavors. The couple’s journey in Malta will forever be remembered as a time when their love and creativity intersected, producing a unique cinematic experience.
Conclusion:
The filming of “By The Sea” in Malta brought together the extraordinary talents of Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie, allowing them to explore their characters’ complex relationship in an intimate and artistic manner. The beautiful backdrop of Malta’s Mgarr ix-Xini Bay provided the perfect setting for their on-screen journey.