In the heart of Malaysia lies a mysterious ghost town with a staggering worth of $100 billion. But what makes this abandoned site even more intriguing is its newfound fame as a top choice for Netflix filming locations. Let’s dive into the captivating story behind Malaysia’s enigmatic ghost town and its rising popularity in the world of entertainment.
Malaysia’s $100 Billion Ghost Town: An Unexpected Netflix Filming Location
Malaysia’s extravagant $100 billion ghost town, Forest City, was initially envisioned as a bustling hub for 700,000 residents. However, its corridors remain eerily silent, with only a fraction of its apartments occupied. This unforeseen twist has turned Forest City into an unlikely yet captivating set for several TV shows and documentaries, including the renowned Netflix reality show “The Mole”.
The Rise and Fall of Forest City
Announced back in 2006, the luxury housing project promised a paradise replete with sparkling apartments, a sprawling waterpark, and opulent hotels. Fast forward to today, only a paltry 15% of the project’s blueprint has materialized. Despite its grandiose facade, the city remains mostly deserted, bearing the scars of financial struggles faced by its developer, Country Garden.
From Deserted Streets to the Not-So-Big Screen
With few residents to breathe life into it, Forest City has found a new identity as a set location. The second season of Netflix’s reality show “The Mole” leveraged the city’s surreal emptiness to heighten the show’s intrigue. Over six weeks, twelve contestants were pitted against one another in intense challenges, ranging from treasure hunts to abseiling down 38-story buildings.
Other Shows Adding to the Mystique
Forest City’s desolation has piqued the curiosity of TV producers worldwide. South Korean broadcaster KBS filmed an episode of their travel series “Battle Trip” here, while German network ProSieben produced a short documentary focused on the city’s eerie vibe. An Austrian documentary, “Hungry: Tipping the Scales,” also chose this city as its backdrop.
The Allure of the Uninhabited
One might ask, what makes a ghost town a prime filming location? The answer lies in its stark contrast. Forest City’s uninhabited streets and empty high-rises provide a raw, almost dystopian setting that is both visually compelling and narratively rich. It’s no wonder that film crews are drawn to its surreal landscape.
Challenges and Opportunities
Forest City’s journey from a promising development to a ghost town highlights the unpredictability in urban planning and investments. Yet, this very unpredictability presents unique opportunities. As a filming location, Forest City offers unparalleled settings that may be difficult to replicate elsewhere.
In conclusion, while Malaysia’s $100 billion ghost town might not be the success story it was intended to be, its current role in the entertainment industry adds a fascinating chapter to its complex history. The sprawling, empty city not only serves as a cautionary tale but also as an unexpected muse for filmmakers and TV producers alike.