Valencia’s vision: becoming a global audiovisual powerhouse

Aiming for the stars: Valencia’s ambitious audiovisual goals

At the recent San Sebastian Film Festival, the Spanish region of Valencia made a bold declaration: it aims to become a leading global hub for audiovisual production. This vision was articulated during an event organized by the Valencian Audiovisual Cluster in collaboration with the Generalitat’s Department of Education, Culture, Universities, and Employment.

Key players and strategic discussions

The event brought together influential figures from both the public and private sectors. Notable participants included Culture Secretary Pilar Tébar, General Manager of the Society for Digital Transformation Projects Fermín Crespo, and Alfred Costa, the general manager of regional broadcaster A Punt Media. The roundtable discussion was moderated by Miguel Molina, VP of the Valencian Audiovisual Production and Services Cluster.

The primary focus of the discussion was the current state of the Valencian audiovisual sector within the global market and strategies for future growth. Innovation emerged as a central theme, with panelists emphasizing its importance over merely offering tax incentives. Cortés, one of the speakers, argued that striving to be the cheapest filming location is a “race to the bottom.” Instead, he advocated for innovation as a unique selling point that can set Valencia apart from other regions.

Introducing the Audiovisual Mediterranean Hub

A significant highlight of the event was the introduction of the Audiovisual Mediterranean Hub Region of Valencia brand. This initiative aims to consolidate the sector’s value chain across Valencia’s three provinces. Sergio Gómez Trillo, the manager of the Valencian Audiovisual Cluster, outlined the strategic plan, which focuses on industry development, innovation, entrepreneurship, and technology.

Key players in this initiative include the Ciudad de la Luz film studios, the Institut Valencià de Cultura (IVC), and the public broadcaster À Punt. Numerous private companies are also contributing their expertise and suggestions to this ambitious project.

Government support and economic impact

Nuria Montes de Diego, Minister of Innovation, Industry, Trade, and Tourism, addressed the need for the central government to recognize Valencia as a strategic hub for Spain’s audiovisual sector. She expressed concerns that local companies might not benefit from the €1.5 billion ($1.7 billion) allocated by the government to boost the national film industry. Montes cited a recent report by the Spain Film Commission, which overlooked Valencia despite its significant contributions. Over the past 14 months, the region has hosted 13 productions at the newly remodeled Ciudad de la Luz film studio, generating €60 million ($67 million) in spending.

The jewel in Valencia’s crown: Ciudad de la Luz film studios

Perhaps the most impressive asset in Valencia’s audiovisual arsenal is the Ciudad de la Luz film studios, which reopened last year. The facilities boast over 120,000 sq ft of soundstages, 120,550 sq ft of workshops and storage, a 36.5-acre backlot, and Europe’s largest water tank. This tank, equipped with wave-generating machines, water cannons, and an extendable green screen, has been used in productions like Netflix’s “Under Paris” and J.A. Bayona’s “The Impossible.”

Public and private collaboration: a recipe for success

Montes emphasized the importance of collaboration between public and private institutions in the growth plan. While financing for international shoots often comes from public subsidies or tax incentives, private organizations play a crucial role in planning and execution. Local studios are consulted at nearly every step of the process.

Return on investment: a promising outlook

Elaborating on the potential for return on investment, Montes cited the recent shoot for Sony’s “Venom: The Last Dance” at Ciudad de la Luz studios. The public investment of €1.5 million ($1.7 million) resulted in a return of €35 million ($39 million) to the local community. Other recent international productions that have benefited the local economy include “The Walking Dead: Daryl Dixon” and “Under Paris.”

Valencia’s ambitious plans and strategic initiatives position it as a formidable player in the global audiovisual industry. With a focus on innovation, collaboration, and leveraging its unique assets, the region is well on its way to becoming a leading hub for film and television production.

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