Discover the best Movies and Books Set in Dili

Dili, the capital city of East Timor, has time and again proven to be a filmmaker’s paradise. Its rich history, cultural heritage, and picturesque landscapes have provided the perfect backdrop for numerous famous films shot in Dili. Moreover, the city’s charm has not only been captured in films but has also figured prominently in various TV shows, animated films, and books. This guide will take you on a cinematic journey through Dili, exploring its renowned filming locations, local legends, and hidden gems. Whether you are a film enthusiast or an avid traveler, this guide will help you experience Dili like never before.

A Glance at Famous Films Shot in Dili

Dili’s captivating scenery and vibrant local culture have caught the attention of filmmakers worldwide, leading to the city featuring in several renowned films. Here are some of the most notable ones:

1. Balibo  (2009) – Directed by Robert Connolly, this film explores the story of five journalists who went missing during Indonesia’s invasion of East Timor in 1975. The movie features stunning shots of Dili’s landscapes.
2. A Guerra da Beatriz  (2013) – This East Timorese film, directed by Luigi Acquisto and Bety Reis, showcases the tumultuous history of East Timor through a love story that survives against all odds.
3. Answered by Fire  (2006) – A mini-series directed by Jessica Hobbs, it tells the tale of the violent 1999 vote for independence in East Timor. Many scenes were filmed in Dili.

TV Shows Set in Dili – A New Perspective

While Dili’s cinematic charm is undeniable, the city’s appeal doesn’t stop at films. Several TV shows have also utilized Dili as a setting, further showcasing the city’s allure. Here are a few examples:

1. The Circuit  (2007-2010) – This Australian television drama series features episodes set in Dili, highlighting the city’s unique atmosphere.
2. East Timor: Birth of a Nation  (2002) – This documentary series explores the journey of East Timor becoming an independent nation, with Dili being a central focus.
3. Timor Leste From Below  (2018) – An underwater series showcasing East Timor’s marine biodiversity, with some episodes highlighting Dili’s coastal beauty.

Animated Films Set in Dili – Captivating the Young Minds

While Dili may not be a traditional setting for animated films, its enchanting landscapes have served as inspiration for several animations:

1. Kubo and the Two Strings  (2016) – While not explicitly set in Dili, the film’s lush landscapes and coastal settings bear a striking resemblance to Dili’s natural beauty.
2. The Red Turtle  (2016) – This dialogue-less film uses stunning animation to tell a profound story. Some of the island scenes remind viewers of Dili’s serene beaches.
3. Finding Nemo  (2003) – Again, while not directly set in Dili, the film’s depiction of the vast marine life is reminiscent of the rich biodiversity found in Dili’s waters.

Famous Books Set in Dili – Narrating Tales of the City

Dili’s rich culture and history have also inspired numerous literary works, providing a deeper insight into the city’s essence. Here are a few classic and contemporary books set in Dili:

Classic Books

1. A Dirty Little War  by John Martinkus – This book offers a firsthand account of East Timor’s struggle for independence, with Dili at the center of the narrative.
2. The Crossing  by Luí­s Cardoso – This memoir by the East Timorese author narrates the story of his life and his country, with many significant events taking place in Dili.
3. Redundancy of Courage  by Timothy Mo – This novel, although set in a fictional country, is widely recognized as based on East Timor’s struggle for independence and prominently features Dili.

Contemporary Books

1. Beloved Land: Stories, Struggles, and Secrets from Timor-Leste  by Gordon Peake – This book explores the realities of modern-day East Timor, with Dili as a central focus.
2. The Circle of Silence: A Personal Testimony Before, During and After Balibo  by Shirley Shackleton – This personal account of the wife of one of the Balibo Five provides a unique perspective on Dili during the Indonesian invasion.
3. Resistance: A Childhood Fighting for East Timor  by Naldo Rei – This autobiographical account of an East Timorese boy turned resistance fighter gives readers an intimate look at Dili’s history.

Exploring Dili Filming Locations – Where to Go

To fully immerse yourself in Dili’s film history, there are several key locations you must visit. Here are some must-see places:

1. Cristo Rei of Dili  – This towering statue of Jesus Christ has been the backdrop for numerous movies and TV shows, offering panoramic views of the city.
2. Resistance Museum  – This museum, dedicated to East Timor’s struggle for independence, has been featured in several documentaries and films.
3. Santa Cruz Cemetery  – The site of the infamous Santa Cruz Massacre, this location has been depicted in several films and TV shows.

Where to Sleep in Dili

When it comes to accommodation, Dili offers a wide range of options to suit every budget and preference. Here are suggestions for both budget and luxury accommodations:

Budget

1. Dili Central Backpackers  – This budget-friendly hostel offers private and dorm rooms, making it perfect for travelers on a budget.
2. Dili Homestay  – This affordable accommodation offers a cozy and homely environment.
3. East Timor Backpackers  – Located in the heart of Dili, this hostel is affordable and close to many tourist attractions.

Luxury

1. Discovery Inn  – This luxury hotel offers premium rooms and is located in the city center, making it convenient for exploring Dili.
2. Novo Turismo Resort & Spa  – This upscale resort offers luxurious rooms and a host of amenities, including a spa, a fitness center, and a pool.
3. Hotel Timor  – Located in the heart of Dili, this hotel offers comfortable rooms, a restaurant, and a pool.

Where to Eat in Dili

From traditional East Timorese cuisine to international flavors, Dili offers a variety of dining options. Here are some suggestions for budget and luxury dining:

Budget

1. Nautilus Restaurant  – This restaurant offers affordable and delicious East Timorese cuisine.
2. Agua Branca  – A popular spot for budget travelers, this place offers a range of affordable local and international dishes.
3. Restaurante Café Caz Bar  – Located on the beachfront, this café offers affordable meals and stunning views.

Luxury

1. The Terrace, Discovery Inn  – This high-end restaurant offers a variety of international dishes and an extensive wine list.
2. Diya Restaurant  – This upscale restaurant offers a mix of Asian fusion and international cuisine.
3. Pateo  – Located in Hotel Timor, this luxury restaurant offers a wide range of international and local dishes.

Detailed Itinerary Day by Day

To make the most of your film-themed trip to Dili, we have curated a comprehensive itinerary that will take you to the city’s most iconic filming locations:

Day 1: Central Dili

• Start your day at the  Resistance Museum, which is featured in several films and documentaries.
• Visit the  Santa Cruz Cemetery, a pivotal location in many films depicting East Timor’s struggle for independence.
• Enjoy lunch at one of the local eateries serving traditional East Timorese cuisine.
• In the afternoon, visit the  Cristo Rei of Dili, a famous backdrop for numerous movies and TV shows.
• End your day with dinner at a local restaurant.

Day 2: Outside Dili

• Start your day with a trip to the  Atauro Island, featured in several nature documentaries.
• Have a picnic lunch on the beach, enjoying the beautiful views of the surrounding waters.
• Visit the  Dare War Memorial Museum  in the afternoon, another significant location in East Timor’s history.
• Return to Dili for dinner at your leisure.

Day 3: Modern Dili

• Begin your day at  Tais Market, a popular local market featured in several films.
• Proceed to  Timor Plaza, Dili’s largest shopping mall, which has been featured in several contemporary films.
• Have lunch at one of the restaurants in Timor Plaza.
• Spend the afternoon exploring  Dili’s street art, which has been featured in numerous music videos and documentaries.
• End the day with a farewell dinner at one of Dili’s upscale restaurants.

Local Legends and Curiosities

Dili’s film industry is steeped in fascinating legends and curiosities. For instance, the city’s rich history has inspired several films about East Timor’s struggle for independence, such as Balibo. Moreover, local folklore and legends, such as the tale of the sacred house at the heart of Dili, have also found their way into films and documentaries.

Hidden Gems in Dili

While Dili’s iconic landmarks often steal the spotlight, the city is also home to several hidden gems that offer unique filming locations. These include the picturesque Tasitolu Peace Park, the vibrant Mercado Lama Market, and the serene Akar Laran Peace Park.

What to Pack for a Trip to Dili

When packing for your film-themed trip to Dili, consider the tropical climate and pack lightweight clothing, comfortable shoes, a hat, and sunglasses. Don’t forget your camera to capture the beautiful locations, and remember to bring along a notebook to jot down your observations.

Transportation Tips

Getting around Dili is relatively easy thanks to the city’s compact size. Taxis are readily available, and there are several car rental services. For the more adventurous, motorbike rentals are also an option. Remember, Dili experiences heavy traffic at times, so it’s best to plan your travels accordingly.

Conclusion

Whether you’re a film enthusiast or an avid traveler, Dili offers a unique experience with its rich history, cultural heritage, and stunning landscapes. So pack your bags, charge your cameras, and get ready to embark on a cinematic journey through this captivating city.