Introduction:
The Mediterranean Islands have long been a dream destination for filmmakers seeking breathtaking landscapes, diverse locations, and rich cultural backdrops. From the sun-drenched coastlines of Malta to the rugged beauty of Corsica, these islands offer the perfect setting for any genre—whether it’s a sweeping historical epic, a sun-soaked romantic drama, or an action-packed thriller.
At Hoodlum Film Fixers, we specialize in unlocking the potential of these cinematic gems. Our team provides expert location scouting, production support, and logistical assistance to ensure seamless shoots in Greece, Italy, Spain, and beyond. With a deep understanding of local incentives and regulations, we help productions maximize budgets while capturing the Mediterranean’s unmatched allure on screen.
Looking to bring your next project to the Mediterranean Islands? Let Hoodlum Film Fixers guide you to the perfect location. Stay tuned as we explore the top island destinations for filmmakers and the benefits of shooting in these stunning locales.
Let’s view the Islands from a local perspective:
The Mediterranean Islands, scattered across the crystal-clear waters of the Mediterranean Sea, offer a unique and diverse range of locations that have captivated filmmakers for decades. From the picturesque villages of Greece to the stunning beaches of Malta, and from the historic cities of Italy to the vibrant islands of Spain, the Mediterranean Islands provide an unparalleled backdrop for film productions.
Why Film in the Mediterranean Islands?
Diverse Landscapes:
The Mediterranean Islands offer a wide range of landscapes, from rugged mountains to pristine beaches, and from ancient ruins to modern cities.
Rich History and Culture:
The Mediterranean Islands are steeped in history and culture, providing a wealth of inspiration for filmmakers.
Favourable Climate:
The Mediterranean climate is characterized by mild winters and warm summers, making it an ideal location for filming year-round.
Excellent Infrastructure:
Many Mediterranean Islands have well-developed film infrastructures, with experienced crews, state-of-the-art equipment, and modern facilities.
Here are some film rebates and tax incentives for islands in the Mediterranean:
Cyprus: Offers a cash rebate of up to 35% for eligible expenditures, with a minimum spend of €200,000 .
Malta: Provides a cash rebate of up to 25% for eligible expenditures, with a minimum spend of €100,000.
Greece: Offers a 40% cash rebate for eligible expenditures, with a minimum spend of €100,000.
Croatia: Provides a 20% rebate on expenses for resident labor and goods and services, with a minimum spend of €300,000.
Sicily, Italy: Offers a 40% tax credit for eligible production expenses, with a minimum spend of €250,000.
Additionally, some Mediterranean countries offer tax incentives for film productions:
Spain: Offers a 30% tax deduction on Corporation Tax for investments in film and audiovisual productions, with a maximum refund of €10 million ³.
France: Provides a 30% tax rebate of qualified expenditures for international productions, with a project cap of €30 million ¹.
Italy: Offers a 40% tax credit of qualified production expenses, with a minimum spend of €250,000 .
Greek Islands
Greece, with its rich history and breathtaking scenery, is home to a plethora of stunning islands that have been featured in numerous films.
- Santorini: This picturesque island, famous for its whitewashed houses and blue-domed churches, was featured in the 2014 film “The Two Faces of January.”
- Mykonos: Known for its vibrant nightlife and beautiful beaches, Mykonos was the setting for the 2011 film “My Life in Ruins.”
- Crete: As the largest Greek island, Crete boasts a diverse landscape that has been featured in films like “Zorba the Greek” (1964) and “The Moon-Spinners” (1964).
- Corfu: This charming Ionian island was the backdrop for the 2010 film “Before Midnight.”
Costs:
- Crew: €500-€1,000 per day
- Equipment: €200-€500 per day
- Accommodation: €50-€200 per night
Italian Islands
Italy, renowned for its rich history, art, and architecture, is also home to several beautiful islands that have been featured in films.
- Sicily: As the largest Italian island, Sicily boasts a diverse landscape that has been featured in films like “The Godfather: Part III” (1990) and “Ocean’s Twelve” (2004).
- Capri: This picturesque island, famous for its stunning natural beauty and luxurious villas, was featured in the 2011 film “The Tourist.”
- Sardinia: Known for its pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters, Sardinia was the setting for the 2012 film “The Best Offer.”
Costs:
- Crew: €600-€1,200 per day
- Equipment: €300-€600 per day
- Accommodation: €80-€300 per night
Spanish Islands
Spain, with its rich culture and stunning landscapes, is home to several beautiful islands that have been featured in films.
- Ibiza: This vibrant island, famous for its electronic music scene and stunning beaches, was featured in the 2012 film “Ibiza Undead.”
- Mallorca: As the largest Balearic island, Mallorca boasts a diverse landscape that has been featured in films like “Evil Under the Sun” (1982) and “The Cold Light of Day” (2012).
- Menorca: This charming island, known for its pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters, was the setting for the 2015 film “The Trip to Spain.”
Costs:
- Crew: €550-€1,100 per day
- Equipment: €250-€550 per day
- Accommodation: €60-€250 per night
Croatian Islands
Croatia, with its stunning coastline and rich history, is home to a plethora of beautiful islands that have been featured in films.
- Hvar: This picturesque island, famous for its stunning natural beauty and luxurious villas, was featured in the 2011 film “The Tourist.”
- Brač: Known for its pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters, Brač was the setting for the 2012 film “The Island.”
- Korčula: This charming island, known for its medieval old town and stunning beaches, was featured in the 2016 film “Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again.”
Costs:
- Crew: €450-€900 per day
- Equipment: €200-€400 per day
- Accommodation: €40-€180 per night
Cypriot Islands
Cyprus, with its rich history and stunning landscapes, is home to several beautiful islands that have been featured in films.
Cyprus: The island itself has been featured in films like “The Beloved” (2011) and “Paphos & the Backyard of the Gods” (2013).
Costs:
- Crew: €400-€800 per day
- Equipment: €180-€360 per day
- Accommodation: €30-€150 per night
The Maltese Islands, comprising Malta, Gozo, and Comino, offer a unique blend of stunning landscapes, rich history, and excellent filming infrastructure. This archipelago has been a popular destination for filmmakers, with its picturesque villages, crystal-clear waters, and rugged landscapes providing an ideal backdrop for a wide range of productions.
Maltese Islands
Malta, the largest island, boasts a diverse landscape that has been featured in numerous films.
- Valletta: The capital city, with its stunning Baroque architecture, was featured in the 2016 film “Assassin’s Creed.”
- Mdina: The ancient walled city, known as the “Silent City,” was featured in the 2011 film “Game of Thrones.”
- Golden Bay: This picturesque beach, with its crystal-clear waters, was featured in the 2010 film “The Count of Monte Cristo.”
Gozo
Gozo, the second-largest island, offers a more rural and tranquil atmosphere, making it an ideal location for productions seeking a peaceful backdrop.
- Victoria: The capital city, with its stunning citadel, was featured in the 2014 film “By the Sea.”
- Dwejra Bay: This picturesque bay, with its crystal-clear waters, was featured in the 2011 film “Game of Thrones.”
- Xlendi Bay: This charming bay, with its stunning cliffs, was featured in the 2010 film “The Count of Monte Cristo.”
Comino
Comino, the smallest island, is a tranquil and picturesque destination, perfect for productions seeking a secluded and peaceful atmosphere.
Blue Lagoon: This stunning bay, with its crystal-clear waters, was featured in the 2014 film “By the Sea.”
Overview on costs for film crews, equipment, accommodations & Incentives:
Crew:
- Director: €800-€1,500 per day
- Cinematographer: €600-€1,200 per day
- Camera Operator: €400-€800 per day
- Lighting and Sound Technicians: €300-€600 per day
Equipment:
- Camera Package: €500-€1,000 per day
- Lighting Package: €300-€600 per day
- Sound Package: €200-€400 per day
- Grip Equipment: €150-€300 per day
Accommodation:
- Hotel Room: €80-€200 per night
- Apartment: €60-€150 per night
- Villa: €200-€500 per night
Incentives:
- Malta Film Commission: Offers a cash rebate of up to 25% of eligible expenditure.
- Malta Film Fund: Provides financial support for film productions.
The Maltese Islands offer a unique and diverse range of locations, making them an ideal destination for filmmakers. With its excellent filming infrastructure, favourable climate, and generous incentives, Malta is a popular choice for productions of all sizes
