Austria: A Flourishing Filmmaking Destination with Lucrative Incentives
Austria has surged as a sought-after film production hub, thanks to its attractive financial support programs that have captivated major international projects. The incentives, launched in 2023, known as FISA Plus and ÖFI Plus, offer substantial coverage of up to 60% of production expenses for foreign film ventures.
Complementing its stunning natural landscapes, medieval towns, and vibrant cities, Vienna boasts a state-of-the-art studio complex, HQ7 Studios, offering comprehensive production support in the heart of the Austrian capital.
"Austria has emerged as a formidable player in the film industry since the inception of the FISA Plus program," says Austrian Film commissioner Nina-Anica Keidies.
Indeed, the incentives have catalyzed 162 projects, attracting €144 million in financing, 3,895 shooting days in Austria, and an impressive €465 million ($482 million) in economic impact.
Recent high-profile productions that have reaped the benefits of Austria's incentives include the HBO series "The Regime," starring Kate Winslet and Matthias Schoenaerts, Hulu's "Nine Perfect Strangers" with Nicole Kidman, and Marc Rothemund's German comedy "Very Best Ager."
Beyond FISA Plus, Austria provides additional national and regional funding through its nine state-level offices.
The "Cliffhanger" reboot, featuring Lily James and Pierce Brosnan, utilized financing from Cine Tirol Film Commission during its November shoot in the Lienz Dolomites.
Filmmaker Jaume Collet-Serra highlights the significance of shooting "Cliffhanger" in the stunning Dolomites: "It was crucial for showcasing the масштаб and grandeur of our story. We're delivering an electrifying and immersive cinematic experience."
Guy Ritchie also filmed key scenes of "Fountain of Youth" in Vienna, utilizing FISA Plus funds.
Philipp Mair Vargas, of Vienna-based Pont Pictures, is involved in international co-productions accessing OFI Plus funding, including "Fractal" and "Amygdala."
Moreover, ÖSI Plus offers gap-financing for films that do not directly shoot in Austria but fulfill specific criteria, such as post-production in the country. The upcoming thriller "The Restauration at Grayson Manor," starring Chris Colfer and Alice Krige, tapped ÖSI Plus.
Austria's appeal extends beyond financial incentives. The country offers a diverse range of filming locations, experienced crews, modern infrastructure, and low production costs.
"Vienna Blood," a series previously filmed abroad, has returned to Austria thanks to FISA Plus, ensuring authenticity and supporting the local industry.
International productions in Austria primarily originate from Germany, the U.S., and the U.K. However, Austria's growing competitiveness attracts inquiries from India and other regions.
Austria's film industry is showcased at the Berlin Film Festival with ÖFI Plus-funded works, including Johanna Moder's "Mother's Baby" in the competition section and Andreas Prochaska's "Welcome Home Baby" in Panorama.
Austria's burgeoning film industry, supported by robust incentives and a welcoming ecosystem, continues to attract international productions, solidifying its position as a major player on the global filmmaking stage.