Prague's Production Hub Rebounds with New Audiovisual Law
A year ago, production in Prague was at a standstill with empty soundstages and quiet streets. The Czech capital, usually one of Europe's busiest production hubs, was facing the impact of both the Hollywood strikes and the closure of its rebate system.
Today, the industry is almost back to pre-strike levels. The turnaround is partly due to Hollywood's recovery from the 2023 labor stoppages. However, a major boost has come from the implementation of a new audiovisual law aimed at modernizing the Czech industry and making it more competitive in the race to attract foreign productions.
The new law increases the production incentive from 20% to 25% for live-action projects and introduces a 35% incentive for digital production and animation. It also expands the range of productions supported by the revamped Czech Audiovisual Fund, with selective mechanisms for films, series, video games, and animated projects.
The industry has responded positively to the law, with producers describing it as a "great success" and predicting that it will "kickstart the Czech audiovisual industry."
The changes are expected to dramatically boost domestic production, especially the struggling TV industry. Additionally, the incentives will support the Czech Republic's strong animation sector and open up opportunities for co-productions with both domestic and international partners.
Local talents are excited about the prospect of forging new pathways into the international market. They believe that the Czech industry is poised for growth and eager to gain the attention of the outside world.
"I feel something is growing," says director Jiří Mádl. "It's about to explode. I feel we're on the verge of something."