Amazon MGM’s “Balls Up” brings together an unexpected mix of chaos, comedy and globe-trotting adventure led by Mark Wahlberg and Paul Walter Hauser. Directed by Peter Farrelly, the film follows two marketing executives whose disastrous World Cup trip spirals into an international mess filled with wild encounters, danger and some over-the-top humor (thanks to some “Deadpool” writers on the project).
Though much of the story is set in Brazil, many of its most vivid and memorable moments were actually captured in the beautiful Queensland region of Australia. Major scenes were shot in Brisbane, the Gold Coast and Village Roadshow Studios in Oxenford. Whether you want rooftop cocktails in Brisbane, oceanfront escapes on the Gold Coast or to learn about behind-the-scenes studio history, these Australian filming locations deserve a spot on your travel radar.
Why Did ‘Balls’ Up Replace Brazil With Australia?
Queensland was the main filming location for “Balls Up,” as Screen Queensland reports. This provided a significant boost to the local community, generating an estimated $64.8 million for the regional economy and employing roughly 250 local cast and crew members. While many of the Australian landscapes were cleverly transformed to evoke the vibrant atmosphere of Brazil, the production team leveraged the Gold Coast and Brisbane’s versatility to handle the bulk of the film’s heavy lifting.
To ensure the film maintained an authentic South American soul, the production also traveled to Rio de Janeiro for essential exterior and establishing shots. As noted by Prime Timer, travelers and film buffs will likely recognize world-famous landmarks such as the Christ the Redeemer statue and the historic Maracanã Stadium, which served as the backdrop for the movie’s World Cup scenes. Although the Brazilian locations were supplemental to the main Australian sets, they provided necessary visual flair.
How To Navigate Queensland Filming Locations Like A Pro
Key Scenes: Major interior sequences recreating Brazil were filmed on soundstages at Village Roadshow Studios. Large-scale action setups and comedy sequences were easier to manage in this controlled environment, per Screen Queensland. Several exterior scenes requiring crowds and big city movement were reportedly filmed around King George Square in Brisbane. Instagram posts from Brisbane residents and news outlets even noted trailers and production activity around the city in July 2024.
Best Time to Visit: The Gold Coast shines from April through October when temperatures are warm without becoming overwhelmingly humid. This season is ideal for travelers who want beach weather while still comfortably enjoying outdoor attractions. There are also packed festival calendars, nightlife events and waterfront dining scenes thriving across the coast. Brisbane is especially enjoyable from March to May and September to November.
Transportation Options: Rental cars are the easiest option if you plan to explore multiple filming spots. However, rideshare services and Queensland’s tram-and-rail system can also connect travelers to Oxenford and neighboring Gold Coast districts pretty efficiently. Once in town, Brisbane’s public transportation network is easy to navigate. The CityCat ferry system is particularly useful for sightseeing while moving between neighborhoods.
The transformation of Queensland into a convincing Brazilian landscape was made possible by the cutting-edge facilities at Village Roadshow Studios and the region’s lush, tropical scenery. As one of the largest filmmaking hubs in Australia, this studio has earned its reputation as a “hidden Hollywood” of the Southern Hemisphere, having hosted massive blockbusters like “Elvis,” “Aquaman,” and “Thor: Ragnarok.” For movie buffs, the studio’s presence in Oxenford adds a touch of cinematic prestige to the area, proving that high-octane action and world-class storytelling are right at home in Australia.
Beyond the studio walls, the Gold Coast played a vital role in capturing the film’s vibrant, sun-soaked energy. The region’s famous beaches, bustling nightlife, and luxury resorts offered a natural aesthetic that perfectly mirrored Brazil’s lively atmosphere. By blending these coastal vibes with urban and rural backdrops, the production team created a seamless, believable setting that elevated the movie’s action-comedy roots. It is this unique combination of natural beauty and professional infrastructure that makes the Gold Coast such a standout destination for global filmmaking.
Things to Do: In Brisbane, the South Bank Parklands is a must-visit for riverside dining, art galleries and outdoor events. The nearby Howard Smith Wharves area is perfect for rooftop drinks and social nightlife with stunning skyline views. On the Gold Coast, travelers can spend the day surfing at Surfers Paradise before heading to luxury spas or upscale beachfront lounges. Nature lovers should also consider day trips to the Tamborine Mountain area for rainforest hikes, wineries and waterfall trails.
Where to Eat: Queensland’s dining scene continues to grow, especially in Brisbane and the Gold Coast, where international cuisine and trendy dining concepts are booming. In Brisbane, Donna Chang is one of the city’s standout upscale dining experiences, offering stylish interiors and elevated Chinese cuisine inside a heritage building. For travelers looking for waterfront energy, Riverbar & Kitchen delivers cocktails and skyline views that pair perfectly with an evening out. On the Gold Coast, Rick Shores remains one of the region’s most talked-about restaurants thanks to its beachfront atmosphere and modern Asian fusion menu. Travelers wanting a more social brunch atmosphere should also visit Elk Espresso for creative breakfast dishes and strong coffee before a day of exploring filming locations.
Where to Stay: W Brisbane is a favorite for travelers who enjoy modern luxury, rooftop bars and easy access to downtown attractions. The Langham Gold Coast offers upscale oceanfront accommodations with spa amenities and beach access. Travelers seeking nightlife access may prefer QT Gold Coast thanks to its trendy atmosphere and proximity to restaurants and entertainment. For those who really want a quieter luxury escape, boutique accommodations around Tamborine Mountain provide rainforest scenery and slower-paced relaxation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What got Mark Wahlberg famous?
Mark Wahlberg first gained fame in the early 1990s. He was a part of the music group Marky Mark and the Funky Bunch. Then a popular Calvin Klein modeling campaign helped launch him into pop culture stardom. He later transitioned into acting and had a breakout role in “Boogie Nights” (1997).
Where can I watch “Balls Up”?
“Balls Up” was released globally on Prime Video on Apr. 15, 2026. Anyone with an Amazon Prime subscription can stream the movie online through the platform’s app or website.
