The Night Manager 2: A Global Production Unveiled
The acclaimed BBC thriller The Night Manager, which first captivated audiences in 2016 with its adaptation of John le Carré's novel, has returned for a highly anticipated second season. Premiering on New Year's Day, this instalment continues to follow MI6 agent Jonathan Pine, portrayed by Tom Hiddleston, alongside a stellar cast including Camila Morrone and Olivia Colman. With the first season drawing an impressive 10 million UK viewers, the new series is set to match that success, partly thanks to its breathtaking filming locations that transport viewers across the globe.
Spanish Splendour: Hostal de la Gavina in Costa Brava
One of the key filming sites for The Night Manager 2 is the luxurious Hostal de la Gavina, nestled in Costa Brava, Spain. This establishment plays a pivotal role, serving as the backdrop for several scenes, including those featuring Hiddleston and Diego Calva, who portrays Teddy Dos Santos. Producers creatively utilised the hotel's tennis courts and interior spaces to recreate a Colombian club, adding authenticity to the storyline. Additionally, the venue doubled as a restaurant and meeting spot within the series, showcasing its versatility. Exterior shots were also captured in Medellín, Colombia, blending locations seamlessly to enhance the narrative's international flair.
Producer Insights: Crafting the Visuals
Producer Matthew Patnick shared exclusive details with Time Out, revealing how Hostal de la Gavina was transformed for the show. He explained, 'We used this as the gun club, for the tennis court [where Pine meets Teddy Dos Santos], a restaurant and as hotels. The actual tennis club is in Medellin but the interior is here.' Patnick also recounted an amusing anecdote about Hiddleston's dedication, noting that during rehearsals, the actor insisted on continuing to play tennis, struggling to hit a bad shot. This behind-the-scenes glimpse highlights the cast's commitment to bringing the thriller to life.
Colombian Charm: Relais & Châteaux Casa Pestagua
Beyond Spain, the production ventured to Colombia, where the Relais & Châteaux Casa Pestagua in Cartagena proved invaluable. This 18th-century mansion, situated by the UNESCO World Heritage site of Cartagena de Indias, features prominently as the storyline shifts to Cartagena. Patnick described how the team bought out the entire venue for multiple days, utilising it for both filming and housing the crew. He reflected on the impact, stating, 'The show is going to change it forever, like the Es Saadi Palace in Marrakech in season one, which is still associated with The Night Manager 10 years later.' This underscores the lasting influence of the series on its locations.
Challenges and Pride in Production
In an interview with Conde Nast Traveller, Patnick expressed pride in filming in Cartagena, despite logistical hurdles. He explained, 'I'm really proud of filming in Cartagena because it was a struggle just from a schedule and time perspective.' This dedication to authenticity and visual storytelling has helped The Night Manager 2 maintain its high production values, captivating audiences with its intricate plot and stunning settings. As viewers tune in, they are treated to a cinematic experience that spans continents, from the sun-drenched coasts of Spain to the historic streets of Colombia.
