As a gamer with a keen interest in the world of cinema and television, I can’t help but be intrigued by the prospect of Spain becoming the “Hollywood of Europe.” Being someone who has spent countless hours immersed in various digital worlds, I find it fascinating to see real-world locations like Spain emerging as potential hubs for creative industries.
“What makes the Ibero-American market attractive to the USA? This includes its growth potential, cost advantages, working with local skills, and financing possibilities. Furthermore, are there chances for joint productions between the USA and Ibero-American territories?” These were some of the queries discussed during a panel at Iberseries & Platino Industria, held in Madrid, Spain. Additionally, the progress Spain is making towards establishing itself as the ‘Hollywood of Europe’ was touched upon.
The attendees included Georgina Gonzalez (VP, Global Scripted Series at Universal International Studios), Jacobo Aparicio (Director of International Content at Anonymous Content) and James Costos (President of Secuoya Studios in L.A., who previously held positions as an HBO executive and U.S. Ambassador to Spain).
Costos stated that he views himself as a bridge between Hollywood and Spain, among other roles. He remarked that Spain’s aim, expressed by Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez a few years ago about making Spain “the Hollywood of Europe,” generated significant interest. Furthermore, he noted that the Spanish government has taken a comprehensive approach to make Spain an attractive destination for this purpose.
The good news was that Spain has “a lot of natural beauty and locations and weather,” he highlighted. “People really want to come shoot here.” However, “the fiscal incentives really had to be changed,” Costos explained. “It’s an economic driver, it’s a job creator, and not only for Spain but for the United States, for us, companies who are looking to invest in Spain. It helps them to expand their business. So that approach really took off.” The government has also worked on reducing bureaucracy and paperwork and speeding up the issuance of shooting permits.
At Secuoya, “we often discuss Spain as our primary travel destination,” Costos added. “Our goal is to draw in as much commercial activity as we can for Spain.” He emphasized that the studio boasts exceptional facilities and a wide range of business sectors, including film and high-end scripted series, unscripted content, and ongoing productions.
Costos often finds himself drawing parallels with President Kennedy’s famous quote about a high tide lifting all ships, when discussing the growth of our business. Our aim is to bring in as much business as feasible, whether it’s for Sequoia or other competitors. We want that business to choose us. Over the past four years, this has been steadily increasing, and today, on Iberseries’ fourth edition, with a focus on U.S. businesses, I believe this demonstrates just how far we’ve come.
Highlighting the abundant talent and abilities within the nation, he stated: “Spain truly offers a treasure trove for cultivating locally based narratives.” He acknowledged, however, that established connections Hollywood individuals have with people from other regions sometimes prompt them to take “shorter routes,” even though they acknowledge Spain’s wealth in terms of talents, locations, and much more.
Gonzalez explained NBCU’s focus on Spain in this manner: “For us, it’s crucial to generate content that resonates deeply with Spain right from the start.” She also pointed out that NBCU is more capable of handling international projects due to its extensive resources and holdings. As evidence, she cited The Day of the Jackal, an upcoming production featuring Eddie Redmayne, Lashana Lynch, and Money Heist star Úrsula Corberó, among other assets.
Everything kicks off with an exceptional tale, be it from film festivals, television broadcasts, video games, or other creative outlets. She emphasized this point as well.
Costos pointed out that Money Heist, a Spanish series, achieved global success by being authentic to its roots in Spain and growing an audience organically. According to the executive from Secuoya, “It resonated because it touched on themes that were relatable outside of Spain,” and viewers also appreciated “a culture that was distinct from their own.
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2024-10-03 13:24