ABSTRACT
The chapter investigates the role of imaginative geographies in cinematic narratives, focusing on how foreign landscapes, cultures, and people are depicted in Indian films shot in Eastern Europe, particularly Poland. It discusses the significance of these representations and their impact on shaping viewers’ perceptions of the world. The chapter presents an empirical analysis of scenes from Indian films shot in Poland, highlighting the exposure of Polish landscapes in these films and the dominant landscape types. It also compares this use of foreign locations with similar representations of Western Europe. This exploration contributes to a deeper understanding of the role of landscapes in Indian cinema’s storytelling and symbolism. Employing a methodological approach derived from film scene analysis, the chapter also analyses the figurative value of Polish landscapes in cinematic narratives. The study explores how Indian filmmakers often simplify and exoticise Eastern Europe despite its rich cultural and geographical diversity. It also delves into the role of local film commissions and destination marketing organisations in shaping these imaginative geographies. Ultimately, this research sheds light on contemporary cinema’s complex interplay of cultural perceptions, economic interests, and storytelling convenience.
