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Fiddler on the Roof movie cover Movie Locations Guide

Where was Fiddler on the Roof filmed?

1971

City Locations

London (UK); Lekenik, Zagreb, Mala Gorica (Croatia)

Location Types

Riverside, Film Studio

Location Styles

Rustic, Building Dated, Gothic, Foreign

About Fiddler on the Roof

The 1971 adaptation of Fiddler on the Roof is a captivating blend of enthusiasm, humor, and emotional depth. Directed by Norman Jewison, this musical film beautifully captures the essence of its theatrical counterpart. Set in a charming Ukrainian village in the early 20th century, it follows the story of Tevye, a milkman portrayed by Topol. The movie is a cinematic rendition of the renowned Broadway musical bearing the identical title, which graced the stage from 1964 to 1972. It also stars Norma Crane as Tevye's wife, Golde; Leonard Frey as Lazar Wolf; Molly Picon as Yente; and Paul Mann as Perchik.

The storyline revolves around Tevye's existence in Anatevka, where he resides with Golde, his wife, and their five daughters. Initially, he orchestrates a marriage for his eldest daughter, Tzeitel, to Lazar Wolf, a prosperous butcher. However, plans must be reconfigured when she finds love with Motel Kamzoil, a destitute tailor. Further challenges to Tevye's stability arise when another daughter, Chava, falls for Fyedka, a man outside their faith. Throughout this rollercoaster of trials and happiness, Tevye maintains a dialogue with God, voicing his anxieties and uncertainties about his family's future.

Released to critical acclaim, Fiddler on the Roof was nominated for eight Academy Awards, including Best Picture, and won three: Best Cinematography (Oswald Morris), Best Music – Scoring (John Williams), and Best Sound (Gordon K. McCallum and David Hildyard). Looking back since its debut, it still garners praise and is frequently regarded as one of the all-time greatest musical movies.

Fiddler on the Roof Locations

The 1971 movie Fiddler on the Roof was filmed in various locations worldwide. The main photography was conducted at Pinewood Studios, located in Buckinghamshire, England, with outdoor scenes shot in Yugoslavia, particularly in Mala Gorica, Lekenik, and Zagreb, all within the Yugoslav region of Croatia. Although the narrative is set in a Ukrainian village named Anatevka, this quaint settlement was replicated in Zagreb and Mala Gorica for filming purposes.

The backdrop for these picturesque villages is set against rolling hills, lush forests, and traditional Croatian architecture that has been standing for centuries. The quaint streets are lined with pastel-colored homes and cobblestone paths that lead to winding riverside promenades. In Lekenik, visitors can explore ancient castles and monuments dating back to 15th-century feudal rulers or stroll through the old town center, which retains its old-world charm.

A trip to film locations of Fiddler on the Roof would be worthwhile for visitors interested in exploring cinematic history and discovering some of Europe’s most beautiful countryside retreats. From cozy cafes where locals share tales of their ancestors who lived during World War Two to rustic churches where you can still hear hymns that inspired generations before us, this journey is filled with hidden gems waiting to be discovered by eager adventurers alike.

Yente arrives with news for Golde scene in Fiddler on the Roof

Lekenik, Croatia

Yente (Molly Picon), the matchmaker of the village, comes with tantalizing news for Golde (Norma Crane). The affluent butcher and widower, Lazar Wolf (Paul Mann), has expressed his desire to marry their oldest daughter, Tzeitel (Rosalind Harris). However, Tevye (Topol), a poor Jewish milkman, requires persuasion to meet Lazar and set up the marriage. The middle daughters, Hodel (Michele Marsh) and Chava (Neva Small) are excited about their mother's conversation with Yente, but Tzeitel, wise beyond her years, cautions them not to be too eager.

Like many others in the film, this iconic scene was shot in the picturesque village of Lekenik, Croatia. As a crucial filming location, Lekenik doubled as the village of Anatevka. Fiddler on the Roof production in Lekenik was led by the esteemed Croatian film producer Branko Lustig, best known for his work on Schindler’s List. The village of Lekenik has remarkably preserved its appearance over the past 40 years. Apart from some new faces, the landscape and the authentic rural architecture remain precisely as they were in 1971.

For those wishing to visit this timeless location, Lekenik is easily accessible from Zagreb, the capital of Croatia. A short drive or bus ride will take visitors to the village, allowing them to step back in time and immerse themselves in the unchanged charm of the location where this iconic scene took place.

Tevye's farmhouse scenes in Fiddler on the Roof

Pinewood Studios, Pinewood Rd, Slough, Iver, UK

An iconic scene unfolds when Tevye's (Topol) horse becomes lame, leaving him to pull the milk cart himself. In the memorable song, "If I Were a Rich Man," he addresses God, pondering about life as a wealthy man.

Amidst this, a student from Kyiv named Perchik (Paul Michael Glaser) arrives in town and overhears their conversation. He criticizes them for only discussing and not implementing any changes. Despite the men labeling Perchik a radical, Tevye finds him appealing. He invites Perchik to join them for the Sabbath meal and proposes a barter deal - a place to stay and meals in return for tutoring his two youngest daughters.

Not only was 'Fiddler on the Roof' filmed in Croatia, but parts were also filmed in the United Kingdom. Pinewood Studios, located in Iver Heath in Buckinghamshire, was the backdrop for a few scenes. Please note that Pinewood Studios is not open to the general public. Visitors must be pre-authorized to enter the studios.

You can drive to Pinewood Studios or take a train from London. The closest train station is Gerrards Cross. From there, it's a short taxi ride to the studios.

Perchik and Hodel dance by the river scene in Fiddler on the Roof

Mala Gorica, Croatia

Near the river, Hodel (Michele Marsh) is busily washing laundry. Perchik (Paul Michael Glaser) seizes the opportunity to impart knowledge to Tevye's (Chaim Topol) two youngest daughters in this serene setting. Following this, an enlightening conversation ensues between Perchik and Hodel, discussing the dynamics of modern relationships. Perchik shares with Hodel the freedoms couples enjoy in the city, such as holding hands and expressing affection openly without needing a matchmaker's intervention. Then, Perchik demonstrates some dance moves to her, sparking a palpable romantic tension between the two.

This idyllic riverside scene was filmed along the Kupa River in Mala Gorica, a picturesque village located in Croatia. The film extensively showcased this small village's stunning landscapes, quaint places, and the local people. If you are intrigued and wish to explore this village further, it's accessible and offers a rich cultural experience.

To get to this location, one must first travel to Zagreb (Croatia’s capital city), then take a bus or car to Mala Gorica. Alternatively, visitors can also fly into Zagreb Airport before taking public transport or arranging for private transfer services to get them there.

The revolution scenes in Fiddler on the Roof

Upper Town, Gornji Grad, Zagreb, Croatia

In a mesmerizing moment, a snow-covered town sets the stage for Perchik's (Paul Michael Glaser) impassioned speech to the townspeople. However, his activism led to his arrest during a protest in Kyiv, ultimately resulting in his exile to the vast expanse of Siberia. Undeterred by the harsh conditions, Hodel (Michele Marsh) exhibits her unwavering love for Perchik and resolves to join him in Siberia.

This compelling sequence was filmed in Zagreb's Upper Town (Gornji Grad), specifically in front of the VI. Gymnasium and the Church of St. Catherine. This location set the stage for the revolutionary scenes. Gornji Grad, the historic district of Croatia's capital city, comprises the ancient hilltop settlements of Kaptol and Gradec. Its cobblestone streets, medieval squares, and vibrant café culture make it one of Zagreb's most enchanting areas.

To reach your destination, it is recommended to take a flight to Zagreb. You can access Gornji Grad using a funicular ride from Ilica Street, located in the heart of the city center. Alternatively, you can walk up the hill from Ban Jelačić Square.

Conclusion

Overall, Fiddler on the Roof (1971) is hailed as a classic film beloved by fans of the stage play. The movie is faithful to its source material, with iconic songs and dances that will make viewers nostalgic for the days of yore.

The filming locations for Fiddler on the Roof offered a diverse and captivating backdrop that enriched the cinematic experience. London, UK, provided the grandeur of its iconic cityscape, with scenes shot in the heart of the British capital delivering a touch of European charm.

Lekenik, Croatia, added an authentic Eastern European flavor to the film, with its picturesque countryside and rustic villages forming the perfect setting for the narrative's timeless themes. The enchanting town of Mala Gorica, also in Croatia, served as a quaint and charming locale that transported viewers to the world of Anatevka.

Lastly, Zagreb, the capital of Croatia, brought depth to the film with its blend of historical and modern architecture, serving as a versatile canvas for various scenes. Together, these locations wove a tapestry of settings that beautifully complemented the story of tradition, love, and change in Fiddler on the Roof.