Conclusions of the first virtual meeting Shooting in Spain

12/04/2020

Under the title "Shootings in Spain (Covid and post Covid)", the Spain Film Commission brought together yesterday professionals in the audiovisual field to reflect on the current situation of film production in Spain, from a national and international point of view.

Carlos Rosado, President of the Spain Film Commission, welcomed more than 250 professionals to the meeting. In his speech, he highlighted that "our film producers have adapted to the consequences and new circumstances of the pandemic". In addition, he stressed that "Spain is a safe and competitive place to film."

The 1st Virtual Meeting Shooting in Spain was moderated by the Vice President of the Spain Film Commission, Teresa Azcona. The participants in the panel discussion have been James Costos, Spain Film Commission Honorary Ambassador and President of Secuoya Studios; Olmo Figueredo, CEO and producer of La Claqueta; and Denise O'Dell, CEO of Babieka Films.

James Costos pointed out the great interest shown by American professionals in shooting in Spain. "Producers constantly ask me about Spain". Costos stressed measures adopted, such as "the action of the Spanish government last May improving incentives", or "the promotional work carried out by the Spain Film Commission", have increased that interest.

In his opinion, Spain is prepared for shooting, "with well-established COVID protocols" and he predicts a positive near future for filming in Spain: "Spain is experiencing a true audiovisual renaissance”.

Olmo Figueredo explained how all the companies have worked on the implementation of protocols to ensure shootings are safe. "Before COVID, producers already had risk prevention plans, which have been perfected and fully implemented."

La Claqueta has implemented measures such as antigen tests for all participants in the shooting, disinfection of all spaces and equipment used, social distance and, above all, being very strict with the sanitary measures.

Finally, Denise O'Dell highlighted that, although in 2020 they had to postpone shootings, “we must learn to live with Covid and we work to make safe filming, because we continue to film”.

Main conclusions from this virtual meeting have been:

- COVID has driven a fast adaptation of productions in Spain. The biggest incidence has been in the form of postponements, not cancellations. Those shootings will start again.

- In 2020, despite the difficulties caused by COVID, national and international shootings have taken place in Spain. The recovery will be very strong in the months to come.

- Spain has made changes in regulations that will attract more international productions, not only through “service”, but also co-productions with national companies and the support of Public Administrations.

- Spain has incredible locations and is investing in the improvement of filming sets. There is enormous interest from US equity funds in infrastructure projects related to audiovisual production in Spain.

The 1st Virtual Meeting Shooting in Spain has been possible thanks to the sponsorship of the Valladolid City Council and the Valladolid Film Office (VAFO), the technical assistance department for audiovisual projects in that Spanish territory, key member of the Spain Film Commission, and has had the support of Madison MK as a partner.

Spain Film Commission, Teresa Azcona, has summoned all of professionals to the next virtual meeting that the Spain Film Commission will organize in early 2021. The objective of these events is to support the reactivation of the sector in Spain, attract international attention and constitute an essential meeting point on the way to the construction of the Audiovisual Hub of Spain promoted by the Government of Spain.

 

#ShootinginSpain - #SafeShootings - #RuedaenEspaña 

Conclusions of the first virtual meeting Shooting in Spain
Conclusions of the first virtual meeting Shooting in Spain