Filming in Italy Is ‘More Convenient Than Ever,’ Argue Panelists at AFM: ‘We’ve Built a Ferrari With Our Tax Credit System. Now, We Need a Circuit for It to Run’

As a seasoned movie critic with decades of experience under my belt, I can confidently say that Italy is truly making a comeback in the international film production scene. With their rich cultural history, picturesque locations, and now, an even more attractive tax incentive system, it’s no wonder why so many productions are flocking to the Boot.


Despite AFM relocating to Las Vegas, certain aspects continue unchanged, such as Italy’s determination to maintain its allure as a prime location for global film productions.

According to Marco Valerio Pugini, the president of APE (Association of Executive Producers – Production Service Companies), it’s a perfect moment to recall that Italy has consistently played a significant role in our industry. Yet, we aim to enhance our performance even more.

As a city known for our rich cultural, fashionable, and stylish heritage, delightful climate, delicious cuisine, and stunning landscapes, we’re more than just a pretty face. We boast advanced infrastructure, particularly with Cinecittà Studios, attractive incentives, and exceptional film crews that make us an ideal choice for production.

On November 7th, an event titled “Focus on Italy” is scheduled, which has been arranged by DGCA-MiC, Cinecittà, APE, and ITA [Italian Trade Agency]. This occasion aims to discuss the reasons why filming in Italy is currently more accessible than ever before. This convenience is partially attributed to a recently introduced tax credit specifically designed for non-Italian productions.

Based on the 2023 DGCA-MiC report, there was a production of 402 films in Italy last year. This is a 13% rise from 2022 and a significant 27% increase compared to 2019. Additionally, there were 248 audiovisual products produced, which is over twice as many as in 2019.

Luca Guadagnino’s movie “Queer,” starring Daniel Craig, was filmed in a rural setting, along with Edward Berger’s film “Conclave” and the Netflix series “Ripley.

Filming in Italy Is ‘More Convenient Than Ever,’ Argue Panelists at AFM: ‘We’ve Built a Ferrari With Our Tax Credit System. Now, We Need a Circuit for It to Run’

The 40% tax credit is strongly emphasized by Pugini as being significant, with APE’s vice president Cristina Giubbetti, Manuela Cacciamani (CEO of Cinecittà), Francesca Rotondo (senior international sales manager at Cinecittà Studios), and Roberto Stabile (head of DGCA-MiC Special Projects at Cinecittà) also voicing their support during the showcase.

This setup has facilitated the expansion and diversification of our overall structure, potentially opening up new possibilities. If it continues, we can anticipate an increase in both global productions as well as Italian content.

As an ardent supporter, I’m excited to share that this collaboration opportunity is versatile, catering to a wide range of projects, from grand feature films and TV series down to compelling documentaries. However, it’s essential to meet the criteria and be ready for key requirements such as investing at least €250,000 in Italy and passing the cultural eligibility test.

During the presentation, Cristina Giubbetti emphasizes the importance of clarifying, in plain language, a system that has proven effective previously. Looking ahead, she is confident that minor tweaks will allow for continued improvement.

In a statement to EbMaster, the Focus on Italy aims to entice fresh investments within the country, ensuring a lasting positive momentum. At the event, they will reveal revised tax incentives alongside Cinecittà’s display, highlighting its “productive and technical prowess” by once again being the studio where numerous award-winning films chosen by prestigious film festivals are produced.

Highlighting APE’s significant contribution to non-Italian films produced within the country, earning €315 million euros, and its substantial impact on employment as the majority of crews were Italian will be emphasized. Additionally, ITA will showcase a group of 12 companies, encompassing production, distribution, and a film commission, during this event.

As a film enthusiast, I can’t help but feel a mix of challenges and anticipation coursing through me right now. For our cinematic world, these feelings translate to fresh horizons. Though we haven’t reached them yet, there’s a silver lining: Cinecittà is constructing those stages. Next year, according to Pugini, they will be ready for us to ponder their potential and create the future within them.

To incorporate product placement, we’ve designed a car modeled after a Ferrari using our tax credit scheme. Now, we require a suitable track or course for it to operate effectively.

Read More

2024-11-06 13:46