Director Will Gluck, known for his romantic comedies, has professed his deep affection for Sydney, Australia, where he filmed his latest work, “Anyone But You,” starring Sydney Sweeney and Glen Powell. Gluck’s admiration for Sydney revolves around its natural beauty, friendly residents, and unique work-life balance.
Sydney’s allure lies in two key elements: its striking urban-coastal fusion and the warmth of its people. The city seamlessly combines urban life with stunning coastal vistas, featuring pristine beaches and an efficient ferry system. Gluck marvels at the abundance of beaches throughout the city.
Equally captivating for Gluck is Sydney’s friendly population. He confirms the city’s reputation for kindness and highlights its commitment to work-life balance. Sydney residents work hard but value their personal time, a lesson Gluck took to heart.
Gluck’s connection with Sydney began in 2018 during a previous project, and he was so enamored that he moved his family there for another film, “Peter Rabbit 2: The Runaway.”
“Anyone But You“ stands out as a film that proudly showcases Sydney’s unique identity. Instead of obscuring iconic landmarks as in many Sydney-shot films, Gluck embraced the city’s distinctive character, writing the movie specifically for Sydney.
Here is the trailer of “Anyone But You“ that hits theaters on December 22, 2023:
In “Anyone But You,” Will Gluck pays tribute to Sydney, offering a cinematic love letter to this extraordinary Australian city. As he continues to share his enchantment with Sydney, audiences eagerly anticipate the release of his latest romantic comedy, set to transport them to the enchanting streets and waters of this remarkable destination.
Gluck and his crew took to the skies in helicopters, providing them with breathtaking aerial views of Sydney. They even landed a helicopter at the iconic Opera House and temporarily shut down the Harbour Bridge for filming. Locations included the Queen Victoria Building and two weeks of shooting overlooking the picturesque Bondi Beach. An entire week was spent shooting a scene on a boat in Sydney Harbour, complete with a buoy. However, filming in the water required a shark cage due to safety regulations.
One particularly memorable evening coincided with Sydney WorldPride, where Gluck and cast members Glen and Sydney Sweeney joined the festivities, mingling with the vibrant crowd. The massive parade proved so immense that they couldn’t cross it and ended up becoming part of the celebration.
One of the highlights for Gluck was spending 10 days in Palm Beach, a Northern Beaches suburb. Their caravans were parked right by the water, allowing Gluck, Glen, and Sydney to fully immerse themselves in the stunning surroundings. After long shooting days, they would unwind with swims and outdoor dinners. Gluck described Palm Beach as one of the most beautiful places in the world, a unique experience that defied typical filming protocols.
Will Gluck’s time in Sydney was marked by unforgettable moments, both on and off the set. His adventures behind the scenes of “Anyone But You” offered him a chance to explore the beauty of the city and create lasting memories in the process.
