Greece, with its breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture, has long been a magnet for filmmakers seeking to capture the essence of the Mediterranean. From the turquoise waters of the Aegean Sea to the ancient ruins of Athens, Greece offers a diverse array of settings that can transport audiences to a world of myth and magic. In this article, we’ll explore the pros of filming in Greece with Hoodlum and why it’s become a go-to destination for filmmakers from around the world.
Unparalleled Landscapes
Greece boasts some of the most stunning landscapes in the world, from the snow-capped mountains of northern Greece to the idyllic islands of the Cyclades. The country’s unique geography offers a wide range of settings, including:
- Dramatic coastlines and secluded beaches
- Picturesque villages and traditional architecture
- Ancient ruins and historical sites
- Lush forests and rolling hills
Rich History and Culture
Greece is steeped in history and culture, offering filmmakers a wealth of inspiration and authenticity. From the iconic Acropolis of Athens to the ancient city of Delphi, Greece’s historical sites provide a tangible connection to the past. The country’s vibrant culture is also reflected in its:
- Colorful festivals and events
- Traditional music and dance
- Delicious cuisine and local products
Favourable Climate
Greece enjoys a Mediterranean climate, with mild winters and warm summers, making it an ideal location for filming year-round. The country’s pleasant weather allows filmmakers to shoot outdoors for most of the year, reducing the need for elaborate lighting and sets.
Competitive Pricing
Compared to other European destinations, Greece offers competitive pricing for film productions. Here are some approximate daily rates for common film production expenses:
Crew:
- Director: €500-€800 (vs. €800-€1,200 in Italy, €1,000-€1,500 in France)
- Camera Operator: €300-€500 (vs. €500-€800 in Spain, €600-€1,000 in Germany)
- Production Assistant: €150-€250 (vs. €250-€400 in Portugal, €300-€500 in UK)
Equipment:
- Camera Package: €800-€1,500 (vs. €1,200-€2,500 in Italy, €1,500-€3,000 in France)
- Lighting Package: €500-€1,000 (vs. €800-€1,500 in Spain, €1,000-€2,000 in Germany)
Permits and Fees
Greece offers a streamlined permitting process, with various options for film productions:
- Location Permit: €50-€200 per day (depending on location and complexity)
- National Permit: €500-€2,000 (for productions shooting in multiple locations)
- Special Permits (e.g. drone, night shoot): €100-€500
Accommodation
Greece offers a wide range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly studios to luxury hotels:
- Hotel: €30-€100 per night (vs. €50-€150 in Croatia, €80-€200 in Italy)
- Apartment Rental: €20-€50 per night (vs. €30-€80 in Spain, €40-€100 in Portugal)
- Production Suites: €100-€300 per night (vs. €150-€400 in UK, €200-€500 in Germany)
Local Travel
Greece has a well-developed public transportation system, and local travel costs are relatively affordable:
- Car Rental: €40-€80 per day (vs. €60-€120 in Italy, €80-€150 in France)
- Taxi: €10-€20 per ride (vs. €15-€30 in Spain, €20-€40 in Germany)
- Public Transportation: €1-€3 per ride (vs. €2-€5 in Portugal, €3-€6 in UK)
Drivers
This region offers a range of driver options, from private cars to luxury coaches:
- Private Car with Driver: €150-€300 per day (vs. €250-€500 in Italy, €300-€600 in France)
- Minibus with Driver: €200-€400 per day (vs. €350-€600 in Spain, €450-€800 in Germany)
- Coach with Driver: €500-€1,000 per day (vs. €800-€1,500 in UK, €1,000-€2,000 in France)
Drone Services
This region offers a range of drone services, from aerial photography to complex cinematography:
- Drone Pilot: €300-€600 per day (vs. €500-€1,000 in Italy, €600-€1,200 in France)
- Drone Package (including equipment and pilot): €800-€1,500 per day (vs. €1,200-€2,500 in Spain, €1,500-€3,000 in Germany)
Incentives and Support
The Greek government has implemented various incentives to attract filmmakers to the country. These include:
- Tax credits: Up to 20% cash rebate on qualified production expenses
- Subsidies: Up to €500,000 for film productions that showcase Greece’s cultural heritage
- Streamlined permitting and licensing processes
- Support from local film commissions and production services
Hellenic Film Commission – 40% Cash Rebate in Greece
https://filmcommission.gr/cash-rebate/ ΕΚΚΟΜΕΔ+15Hellenic Film Commission+15VisitGreece+15
EΚΚΟΜΕ – Cash Rebate FTV (Film/TV/Documentaries)
https://www.ekkomed.gr/audiovisual-production-invest/cash-rebate-film-tv-animations-documentaries/ Trade.gov+6ΕΚΚΟΜΕΔ+6ΕΚΚΟΜΕΔ+6
Diverse Locations
This region offers a diverse array of locations, from urban centers to rural landscapes, allowing filmmakers to find the perfect setting for their story. Some popular locations include:
- Athens: The capital city, with its ancient ruins, vibrant neighborhoods, and modern architecture.
- Mykonos: A picturesque island with whitewashed houses, vibrant nightlife, and stunning beaches.
- Santorini: A breathtaking island with picturesque villages, scenic views, and stunning sunsets.
Conclusion
Greece is a filmmaker’s paradise, offering a unique combination of natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture. With its favorable climate, competitive pricing, and government incentives, Greece is an attractive destination for filmmakers seeking to create memorable and captivating stories. Whether you’re shooting a blockbuster film, a television series, or a commercial, Greece has something to offer. Come and discover the timeless charm of Greece – you’ll be inspired!