Georgia is positioning itself as a potential film hub, striving to become the “Hollywood of the Caucasus.” The nation has recently attracted international attention through its diverse landscapes and rich cultural backdrop, featuring prominently in films and series such as the blockbuster *F9* and the Apple TV series *Drops of God*. With its picturesque mountains, historical architecture, and a burgeoning film industry, Georgia offers a compelling case for filmmakers from around the globe.
Director of Film in Georgia, Tatia Bidzinashvili, emphasizes the country’s ambition. “Georgia wants to become the Hollywood of the Caucasus,” she states. The nation, located at the crossroads of Eastern Europe and Western Asia, has a population of less than 4 million and is eager to shed outdated perceptions. Bidzinashvili points out that while some view Georgia unfavorably, visitors quickly recognize it as a “modern and vibrant European country.”
Georgia’s film industry has deep roots, tracing back to its Soviet era when the Georgian Film Studio produced numerous films annually. Today, the country offers substantial financial incentives, including a cash rebate of up to 25 percent on qualifying production costs. Additionally, the established network of experienced crews and a streamlined service for securing locations and permits make Georgia an attractive option for filmmakers.
The breathtaking geography of Georgia enhances its appeal, with diverse environments available within a short drive. Irakli Makatsaria, a Tbilisi-based television presenter and producer, highlights the variety: “In Georgia, you can find snowy mountains, sunny beaches, or forests within a three- or four-hour drive.”
Despite these advantages, Georgia’s cinematic aspirations face challenges due to political instability. Since February 2024, under Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze, the government has drawn criticism for its authoritarian tendencies. Human rights advocates have raised alarms about increased restrictions on dissent, with opposition parties and independent media under mounting pressure. According to the 2024 World Press Freedom Index published by Reporters Without Borders, Georgia ranks 114 out of 180 countries regarding press freedom, a statistic that may deter potential foreign productions.
Film producer Anna Khazaradze of 1991 Productions expresses concern about the realities filmmakers face. “Georgia is a film-friendly country, but our friends are also being arrested — that is the reality of what is happening here,” she reflects. Her company is currently working on *Tear Gas*, a story centered on a 16-year-old girl caught up in anti-government protests.
In contrast, Bidzinashvili argues that Georgia’s centralized efforts to attract productions can be beneficial. When *F9* sought to film an action-packed car chase through Tbilisi, the city closed Rustaveli Avenue for nearly a week, akin to Paris shutting down the Champs-Élysées for a major film shoot. She mentions, “If a production needs 20,000 extras, we can help arrange that.”
Despite the political backdrop, foreign productions have continued to film in Georgia. For instance, the American thriller *Hotel Tehran*, starring Liam Neeson, was able to proceed amidst protests in the capital, with local authorities facilitating security for the set. Bidzinashvili notes, “Anyone who knows Georgia and our history knows we have had protests for a hundred years, but life goes on.”
Georgia’s geographical closeness to Russia, which invaded Ukraine in 2022 and has exerted military control over regions like Abkhazia, raises further concerns for foreign film projects. Yet, productions like *Special Ops* have successfully filmed near the border, utilizing drone and helicopter footage to capture scenic vistas.
Upcoming films also tap into Georgia’s complex relationship with Russia, such as *Young Stalin*, a British-Georgian co-production that explores the early life of Joseph Stalin, born in Gori, Georgia. This historical connection adds a layer of intrigue to the nation’s cinematic offerings.
Despite social conservatism, Georgia has been a setting for films addressing controversial topics. The Black Sea city of Batumi served as the backdrop for *Crossing*, a drama directed by Levan Akin about a retired teacher searching for her transgender niece. While the film has received international acclaim, it has struggled to find local distributors due to prevailing anti-LGBT sentiment, exacerbated by laws perceived as discriminatory.
Georgia also serves as a versatile location for films that face challenges shooting in their intended settings. In *Girls of the Sun*, which premiered at Cannes in 2018, Georgia effectively stood in for Iraqi Kurdistan. The government even provided military vehicles for the film’s battle scenes, showcasing its commitment to supporting filmmakers.
As Georgia’s film industry continues to develop, private production companies like 20 Steps Production and Industria Films provide comprehensive pre- and post-production services. However, the search for expansive soundstages remains a challenge for some filmmakers.
The hospitality culture in Georgia, known for its warmth and welcoming spirit, adds an appealing layer for visiting filmmakers. Historic villas transformed into high-end accommodations and a diverse culinary scene, featuring dishes like khinkali and khachapuri, further enhance the country’s attractiveness, despite the potential dietary concerns of visiting Hollywood stars.
Makatsaria summarizes the essence of Georgian hospitality: “They say in Georgia, guests are a gift from God. That is why the red carpet comes with endless wine and at least three new best friends insisting you stay for one more toast.”
As Georgia navigates its political landscape while pursuing its cinematic ambitions, the world watches to see if it can truly claim the title of the Hollywood of the Caucasus.
