In Hollywood history, Brad Pittโs ascent to stardom is often linked to iconic performances like โOceans 11โ or โWorld War Z.โ However, among his early works lies a much lesser-known treasure: โThe Dark Side of the Sun.โ
Situated along the shimmering Adriatic coast lies Montenegro, a land steeped in history, culture, and natural beauty. While this Balkan gem has long captivated travelers with its rugged mountains and sun-drenched shores, it also holds a place in cinematic history, thanks to the intriguing tale of โThe Dark Side of the Sunโ and its connection to Hollywood superstar Brad Pitt.
Yet, what distinguishes โThe Dark Side of the Sunโ is not just Pittโs budding talent, but also the filmโs tumultuous production history.ย In 1988, amidst Yugoslaviaโs political turmoil, the production of โThe Dark Side of the Sunโ faced numerous challenges, delaying the movieโs release until 1997, nearly a decade after its completion.
Pittโs First Major Role
Directed by Serbian filmmaker Boลพidar Nikoliฤ, this romantic drama marked Pittโs first major role, casting him as the central character grappling with a rare skin condition. As a romantic drama, the movie served as both a tribute to Montenegroโs landscapes and a showcase of its cultural richness. Set against the countryโs breathtaking scenery backdrop, from the sun-kissed shores to the rugged mountains, the film offered viewers a captivating glimpse into this Balkan jewel.
Despite its delayed release, โThe Dark Side of the Sunโ stands as a testament to Brad Pittโs early talent and charm. His portrayal of the lead character not only captivated audiences but also laid the foundation for his rise to Hollywood stardom.
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A Star is Discovered
At the heart of โThe Dark Side of the Sunโ was Brad Pitt, then a relatively unknown actor on the cusp of stardom. Selected by director Boลพidar Nikoliฤ to play the central character, Brad Pittโs depiction of the troubled figure highlighted his budding talent and magnetic presence. Little did anyone know at the time that this film would serve as the launchpad for Pittโs illustrious Hollywood career.
Today, an A-list superstar commanding millions per role, Brad Pitt in 1988 gladly accepted a modest payment of USD 1,523 for his first leading role in โThe Dark Side of the Sun.โ Selected ahead of 400 others by director Bozidar Nikolic, Pitt dedicated seven weeks to filming.
Filming Locations
The filming of โThe Dark Side of the Sunโ primarily occurred in the picturesque Boka Bay and Ulcinj. Scenes featuring the iconic island of Sveti Stefan added to the filmโs visual splendor, showcasing Montenegroโs diverse landscapes and cultural heritage.
Pittโs Affection for Montenegro
During the filming of โThe Dark Side of the Sun,โ Brad Pitt developed a deep affection for Montenegro, particularly its coastal charms. Enamored by the beaches near Sveti Stefan and the historic streets of Kotor and Perast, Pitt expressed a desire to own a home in the region. However, persistent paparazzi harassment during a visit with his then-wife Angelina Jolie in 2010 dashed their plans, leaving behind only memories of what could have been.
Montenegro Through Pittโs Eyes
Hotel Splendid Conference & Spa Resort owner Zarko Radulovic, who encountered Pitt during his visits to Montenegro, echoed the actorโs sentiments about the countryโs allure. Pitt envisioned Montenegro as a haven for his family, where they could bask in the beauty of nature and create lasting memories together.
The Legacy of โThe Dark Side of the Sunโ
Despite facing numerous challenges, including delays caused by Yugoslaviaโs political turmoil, โThe Dark Side of the Sunโ remains a cherished piece of cinematic history. Of course, its portrayal of Montenegroโs unparalleled beauty continues to captivate audiences, serving as a visual tribute to this enchanting destination.
Movie Plot
Rick, played by Brad Pitt, is a young American afflicted with a rare skin condition, who cannot tolerate exposure to light, particularly sunlight. Renowned for his motorcycling prowess and donning leather attire for protection, Rickโs quest for a cure leads him and his father to a Croatian village, where they encounter a healer promising salvation.
Despite failed treatment, Rick finds love with a fellow American actress, Cheryl Pollak, and resolves to embrace life, basking in the sunlight despite the diseaseโs inevitable progression. Ultimately, Rickโs father comes to terms with his sonโs decision, understanding the significance of choosing joy over affliction.
As audiences revisit the early works of Brad Pitt, they embark on a visual journey through Montenegro, a land of captivating beauty and cinematic intrigue. Through โThe Dark Side of the Sun,โ Pittโs connection to this Balkan jewel endures, leaving an indelible mark on both the actor and the country itself. Montenegro, with its sun-drenched shores and rugged mountains, remains a timeless treasure waiting to be discovered by travelers and cinephiles alike.
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