With it´s natural stunning beauty, diversity of landscapes and a 14% reimbursement on production costs, Iceland is fast becoming a major filming destination.
Recent international movies ranging from Clint Eastwood’s war film ‘Flags of Our Fathers’ to the horror movie ‘Hostel II’ have been filmed in Iceland. Even music video directors, such as Sophie Muller, have come to Iceland in order to film their videos.
The growing interest in filming in Iceland has been helped by a new incentive offered by the Icelandic government. If over 80% of the film was shot in Iceland, the government returns a 14% reimbursement on all production costs. This incentive comes about after legislation was introduced which aims “to enhance domestic culture and promote the history and nature of Iceland”.
Furthermore, as Iceland is part of the European Economic Area (EEA), movies shot in the country will receive European Content status. This allows the movie to be released in Europe under the classification of European material and won’t affect any quota on the release of non-European content material. On top of this, film-makers can receive grants for film production offered by the European Union.
Whilst the monetary incentives for film-making in Iceland are impressive, there are other reasons for the increase in foreign film productions in Iceland. Icelandic film crews have become highly skilled through their work with many internationally-acclaimed actors and directors who come to Iceland to film. Moreover, Icelandic production companies have recently produced 5 to 6 motion pictures per year of a very high technical standard. Film-makers who shoot in Iceland have direct access to all these skills, on top of the stunning scenery offered by the country itself.
There are also a number of local production companies in Iceland with years of experience that are willing to assist foreign film-makers with all production requirements. They are able to help obtain any necessary permits as well as organise crew, equipment, locations, etc. Furthermore, no tariff or duties are levied on equipment used for temporary film-making.
Notable films which have taken advantage of these incentives are: ‘Flags of Our Fathers’, ‘Beowulf and Grendel’, ‘Batman Begins’, ‘Lara Croft: Tomb Raider’, ‘Stardust’ and ‘A Little Trip To Heaven’.
For further information on incentives for filming in Iceland, visit www.filminiceland.com.