The third largest city in the country is most noted for its active port and its rolling hills. Located between the ocean and the green Carmel Mountains, Haifa has wonderful views making it ideal for beauty shots. The religious make up of the city is somewhat unique: around 10% of the population is Arab, lending to interesting multi-cultural neighborhoods. Haifa is also home to the Baha’i Temple and Gardens - an example of exquisite architecture with vast stunning tended-to grounds.
One film set on the Haifa landscape is Broken Wings, winner of the 2002 Israeli Academy Award for best picture. Director Nir Bergman, a Haifa native, pays tribute to his hometown in this moving story of an average Israeli family coping with the loss of a loved one.
Within the modern city, with its first-class universities, hospitals, shopping malls, and museums, are fascinating neighborhoods that bring one back in time. One example of such a neighborhood is Wadi Nissnass, a vibrant section of Haifa that is a delight for the senses. This authentic Mediterranean town was built in the 1830’s, and since has served as a model for co-existence between Arabs and Jews. The stone-lined streets house market vendors selling their array of goods: homemade pitas, specially ground coffee, and crafts galore. The lights, colors, Middle Eastern musicians, and children playing in the streets make this a perfect locale for the inspired cinematographer.