I recently watched Taken 2 - an action film starring Liam Neeson in Istanbul. Reviews from film critics were mixed, though box office showings seemed to impress even the most cynical movie-goer. In my opinion, it was merely an action-packed film that incorporated the quick analytical skills of Bryan Mills (Neeson) to save the day.
However, what impressed me most was the ability to compress most of Istanbul's scenic sites into the film. Main scenes included Bosphorus River, the architecture of Turk's rooftops and Grand Bazaar. Others included the narrow streets of Istanbul, the infamous yellow cabs and the Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmed Mosque).
What a great tourism advert. How I wished I could visit there one more time.