The Spain Film Commission (SFC) has taken a significant step forward in its mission to consolidate Spain as a global hub for audiovisual production. At the Málaga Film Festival today, the organization hosted a contract signing with its new board of trustees, bringing together industry leaders Telefónica, Newen Studios company iZen and Netflix. The day’s events marked a pivotal moment in the organization’s trajectory, with a strategic alliance aiming to enhance Spain’s attractiveness for film and television productions while fostering stronger collaborations between the public and private sectors.
A Legacy of Growth and Global Aspirations
Founded nearly 25 years ago, the Spain Film Commission has played a crucial role in promoting Spain as a top-tier filming destination. Over the years, it has evolved into a key player in the international audiovisual landscape, supporting both domestic and international productions.
One of the commission’s most significant achievements in recent years has been its involvement in the Spain Audiovisual Hub initiative, an ambitious project launched in 2021 to position Spain as a leading audiovisual production center in Europe. “The success of the hub has many contributors, but it was our organization that first conceptualized Spain as the Hollywood of Europe,” said Spain Film Commission president Juan Manuel Guimeráns, referencing a similar claim made by Spanish president Pedro Sánchez during a highly publicized visit to Los Angeles in 2021.
The Strategic Alliance: Telefónica, iZen and Netflix
The recent formation of a Board of Trustees, with Telefónica, iZen and Netflix as founding members, is a testament to the growing collaboration between Spain’s audiovisual institutions and major industry players.
Telefónica, one of Europe’s biggest telcos, has been instrumental in the digitalization and connectivity required for high-end productions. iZen, a prominent production group based in Madrid and part of Newen Studios, represents the strength of Spain’s independent audiovisual sector, while Netflix’s investment in Spanish content has already had a transformative effect on the industry.
During the signing event, Guimeráns highlighted the importance of this partnership: “With these industry leaders joining our initiative, we strengthen our mission to create a more competitive and globally recognized audiovisual sector in Spain.”
Expanding Spain’s Audiovisual Footprint
The Commission’s strategy for the coming years is centered around five key areas:
- Strengthening the Network – Expanding the presence of film commissions across all Spanish regions to support both local and international productions.
- Training and Knowledge Development – Enhancing education and professional development within the sector, including the recently launched Cátedra Spain Film Commission at the Pablo de Olavide University in Seville.
- International Promotion – Increasing Spain’s visibility in global markets through partnerships and participation in major industry events in Europe, the U.S., and India.
- Regulatory and Fiscal Improvements – Advocating for policy changes to enhance Spain’s film incentives, ensuring competitiveness on an international level.
- Sustainability and Innovation – Promoting sustainable production practices and leveraging new technologies, including artificial intelligence and virtual production.
Spain’s Competitive Edge in the Film Industry
Spain’s appeal as a filming destination has grown significantly in recent years, driven by its diverse locations, skilled workforce and competitive tax incentives. The Spain Film Commission has actively worked on optimizing these lures, ensuring they benefit both international and domestic productions.
Moreover, its role in digital transformation has been crucial. One of its most innovative projects, a virtual location scouting tool using artificial intelligence, allows filmmakers to explore Spanish filming locations remotely. “We are pioneering a new way to showcase our country to international productions, combining tradition with cutting-edge technology,” said Guimeráns.
A Bright Future for Spain’s Audiovisual Sector
With the addition of Telefónica, iZen and Netflix to its leadership structure, the Spain Film Commission is set to play an even more influential role in shaping the future of Spain’s audiovisual sector. The new Board of Trustees will serve as a bridge between public institutions and private industry, fostering new collaborations and reinforcing Spain’s position as a top global destination for film and television production.
As the Commission looks ahead, its commitment remains clear: to ensure that Spain not only remains competitive in the global market but continues to thrive as a premier hub for audiovisual excellence.