Flanders, with its rich history and diverse landscapes, has established itself as a preferred destination for the global film industry. This European enclave not only offers picturesque and varied surroundings but also provides a robust infrastructure for productions of all sizes. If you’re looking for a place that combines ease of access, stunning scenery, and top-notch support infrastructure, Flanders is your ideal choice. For more information about this and other locations, don’t forget to attend the fourth edition of Shooting Locations Marketplace, which will be held on October 15th and 16th, 2024, in Valladolid.
Landscapes and architecture: the perfect setting
The region of Flanders stands out for its well-preserved medieval architecture, vibrant urban landscapes, and stunning rural areas. Cities like Ghent, Bruges, and Antwerp offer a range of settings from romantic canals to imposing Gothic cathedrals. These places not only provide a unique atmosphere but also allow great flexibility in terms of setting and historical period.
Ghent is an excellent example of an urban setting with a rich history. Its Gravensteen Castle and St. Bavo’s Cathedral provide a majestic backdrop for any production. The mix of ancient buildings with modern facilities facilitates the logistics of filming and ensures a comfortable environment for the production team.
On the other hand, Bruges is known as “the Venice of the North” for its canals and well-preserved historic center. This setting has been chosen by numerous directors to set period films and historical dramas. The magical atmosphere of Bruges, especially at night, offers unique opportunities to capture memorable scenes.
In addition, cycling is an integral part of Flemish culture and adds a distinctive character to the region. Ronde van Vlaanderen, one of the most prestigious cycling classics in the world, traverses the iconic Flemish cobblestones, offering a dynamic and authentic setting. These routes’ cobbles are not only a challenge for cyclists but also provide a visually stunning backdrop for any film production seeking to capture the essence of Flanders.
Source: Screen Flanders
Infrastructure and facilities: full support for productions
Flanders not only stands out for its landscapes but also for its support infrastructure for film productions. The region offers a wide range of services, from recording studios to post-production facilities, all equipped with state-of-the-art technology and highly qualified professionals. The Screen Flanders Film Fund provides financial support to audiovisual productions that choose Flanders as their operating base. This fund not only helps reduce costs but also facilitates collaboration with local talent and the use of indigenous resources. Additionally, Flemish cities are well connected by an efficient transportation network, facilitating the movement of equipment and personnel.
Regarding recording studios, ACE Image Factory in Brussels is one of the most prominent. Equipped with the latest technology in motion capture and visual effects, it offers filmmakers the possibility of conducting complex productions without leaving the region. This facility, along with other similar studios, ensures that Flanders can accommodate both high-budget shoots and independent productions.
Finally, Flanders has a wide range of equipment rental companies and specialized catering services for filming. Collaboration between these providers and productions ensures that every aspect of filming is handled with the utmost professionalism and efficiency.
For those interested in exploring the vast possibilities that Flanders offers, the upcoming edition of Shooting Locations Marketplace in Valladolid is an unparalleled opportunity. The event, organized by Feria de Valladolid and Spain Film Commission, will bring together location managers, producers, and filming destinations from around the world, providing a space to firsthand experience what Flanders has to offer.