The dark satire following a globe-trotting arms dealer was filmed in the Czech Republic and South Africa – which doubled for the war zones of Ukraine, Africa and the Middle East the trade leaves in its wake.
Where was Lord of War filmed?
Lord of War was filmed in the Czech Republic and South Africa.
Every Lord of War location, explained
1
Ukraine – the Czech Republic
The arms dealer’s homeland used the Czech Republic, standing in for Ukraine.
2
The war zones – South Africa
The African and Middle Eastern scenes used South Africa, around Cape Town.
3
New York – the deals
Some scenes used New York.
4
The global trade
The film follows the arms trade across continents.
Planning a visit
The Czech Republic and Cape Town, South Africa – the film’s real settings – are striking, accessible destinations.
Lord of War Fun Facts
1
Filmed in the Czech Republic and South Africa The two countries doubled for war zones worldwide.
2
A bullet's-eye view The film famously opens by following the ‘life of a bullet’.
3
Real weapons The production reportedly used real decommissioned weapons.
4
A dark satire The film skewers the global arms trade.
5
Cage stars Nicolas Cage plays the arms dealer Yuri Orlov.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where was Lord of War filmed?
In the Czech Republic and South Africa.
Is it set in one place?
No – it follows an arms dealer across many countries.
Can you visit the locations?
Yes – the Czech Republic and Cape Town are accessible.
Who stars in it?
Nicolas Cage.
When was it released?
2005.
