The Friuli Venezia Giulia (FVG) region has established itself as one of the most fascinating and versatile destinations for film and audiovisual productions. Located in the north-east of Italy, this territory offers an impressive diversity of landscapes and cultural richness that makes it an ideal location for filmmakers looking for authenticity and variety in their locations. From the Alps with their ancient forests to the Adriatic coast with its historic seaside resorts, to the hills of vineyards and the plains that merge the agricultural lifestyle with industrial development, FVG has something unique to offer for every type of production.

A treasure to be discovered

Although Friuli Venezia Giulia is not one of Italy’s best known regions, visitors are surprised by the diversity of scenery to be found in a relatively small territory. The possibility of travelling from the coast to the mountains in just one hour is a unique advantage for the film industry, as it allows productions to shoot in multiple locations with simpler and cheaper logistics. The region offers not only breathtaking natural landscapes, but also a unique cultural melting pot, due to its proximity to the Slovenian border and its history as part of the Austro-Hungarian Empire, which is still reflected in the architecture and atmosphere of cities such as Trieste.

The role of the FVG Film Commission is fundamental in attracting and facilitating the work of productions in the region. This institution not only focuses on projects financed through the FVG Film Fund, but also offers its services to any production that requests it, whether it is a major Hollywood production or a more modest independent project. Among the services offered by the Film Commission are:

• Free technical assistance in the management of bureaucratic and logistical problems, such as obtaining permits to film in public spaces.
• Support in communication with local institutions and media, which facilitates the integration of the production in the community.
• Location scouting and assistance in the selection and mediation of suitable sites for filming, with in-depth knowledge of the territory.
• Connection with local professionals, which helps to optimise resources and reduce costs.

The commission also provides direct contact with local authorities and a wide range of preliminary information on technical, logistical and bureaucratic aspects. All this makes FVG an attractive destination for filmmakers looking for an efficient and collaborative working environment.

A pioneering production fund

The FVG Film Fund, created in 2003, was the first production fund in Italy and aims to encourage audiovisual productions in the region. It offers funding of up to 300,000 euros for projects ranging from feature films to TV series, documentaries and short films. The funding covers up to 50% of the industrial cost of the project, which represents a great opportunity for productions seeking to optimise their budgets without sacrificing the quality of their work.

Applications for funding can be submitted on three specific dates throughout the year (February, June and September), allowing productions to plan their shoots in advance and benefit from this financial support. In addition, the procedures for accessing the fund are relatively simple and are carried out through the FVG Film Commission’s website, which facilitates the participation of both national and international projects.

Friuli Venezia Giulia’s exceptional qualities have attracted numerous film and television productions over the years. The region has served as a setting for films that seek to recreate past eras or explore nature in its purest state, thanks to its unexploited and largely unknown landscapes. The capital, Trieste, is notable not only for its architectural beauty, but also for being a strategic point in European history, making it an ideal setting for stories dealing with historical and cultural themes.

Easy to work with

FVG’s compact size and the Film Commission’s deep familiarity with the territory allow for a streamlined and personalised approach during the location scouting phase. This means that productions can count on constant and direct support, which is essential to face the challenges of any shoot. From bureaucratic paperwork to logistics, the FVG Film Commission team is committed to making every production a success.

Friuli Venezia Giulia is not just a place to film; it is a place to tell stories. The combination of its varied landscapes, rich culture and comprehensive support for productions make it an unrivalled destination for the audiovisual industry. The region offers not only scenery, but also an environment that inspires filmmakers to explore and create, bringing an authenticity and diversity rarely found elsewhere.

For those looking for a place where the modern and the historic merge, where the sea meets the mountains, and where every corner has a story to tell, Friuli Venezia Giulia is undoubtedly the perfect destination for the next big audiovisual production.