If there is a country that has successfully combined cinematic tradition, technical excellence and economic efficiency, it is the Czech Republic. At the heart of this well-oiled machine is the Czech Film Commission, a body that not only promotes the country as a filming destination but has become a strategic ally for production companies from all over the world.

On October 15 and 16, it will once again take part in Shooting Locations Marketplace in Valladolid, where it will share its successful model with the international audiovisual industry.

Efficiency, local talent and unbeatable incentives

Filming in the Czech Republic means accessing a network of professionals considered among the best in Europe, from production design to digital post-production, practical effects experts and world-class stunt coordinators.

As David S. Goyer, showrunner of Foundation, said: “There are beautiful locations – both urban and natural. In Prague there’s also an incredible crew base – the most skilled craftspeople I’ve ever worked with.”

Part of the national audiovisual fund, the Czech Film Commission acts as a gateway and full-service facilitator for foreign productions. Since 2004, it has provided free assistance with locations, funding, admin procedures and professional contacts.

This efficiency has helped establish the country as a favourite filming location for both European and North American productions. Its generous cash rebate —25% for fiction and documentary, 35% for animation and digital production, with a cap of 450 million CZK (approx. €18 million) per project— is a major asset.

Robert Eggers, director of Nosferatu, sums it up: “Prague is an inspiring city. The crew, from drivers to the camera department, was top-notch and enthusiastic. The craftsmanship and finish were always perfect. I highly recommend any filmmaker to shoot in Prague.”

A stage that has it all

Prague can become any city in the world. From cobblestone streets evoking centuries past to sleek modern avenues. Add to this the legendary Barrandov Studios, known for their history and technical capabilities, where titles such as Casino Royale, Mission: Impossible – Ghost Protocol or The Gray Man were shot.

“Prague is amazing to visit, but even better to shoot in. The crews and studios are world-class. The locations are stunning in scope, quantity and appearance,” says Patrick Newall, executive producer of The Gray Man.

Dozens of international projects shoot in the country each year. Recent productions include The Wheel of Time, All Quiet on the Western Front, Blade Runner 2099, Spider-Man: Far from Home, The Crown and The Witcher.

Actress Carey Mulligan, who shot Kosmonaut in the country, recalls: “In Prague we had the most amazing crew. It was clear they loved their job. We felt it was the most welcoming and friendly community.”

Beyond technical quality and visual richness, filming logistics are finely tuned. Permit applications are managed locally with clear guidelines for each district. The country also boasts certified drone operators, advanced safety protocols and a firm commitment to sustainable filming, including initiatives like Greenfilming.

A cinematic legacy still in motion

The Czech film industry is no accident. From the 1930s and the founding of the Barrandov Studios to generations trained at FAMU —the renowned Prague Film School and alma mater of directors like Miloš Forman— the country has shaped a unique cinematic identity.

It has received over 20 Academy Awards and the term “Czech New Wave” is taught in film schools worldwide.

This heritage, combined with modern infrastructure, efficient public administration and a consolidated creative community, explains why production companies from Germany, the US, Scandinavia or the UK return year after year. As Malte Grunert, producer of All Quiet on the Western Front, said: “Czech crews are known worldwide as top-tier and have worked on many important projects. I was confident the collaboration would go smoothly — and it did.”

The Czech Film Commission will be at Shooting Locations Marketplace to show how a country can become synonymous with audiovisual efficiency without losing its cinematic soul. A unique opportunity for producers, location scouts and Film Commissions seeking real inspiration and strong partnerships in the heart of Europe.