Hungary has officially risen to the second most important film production center in Europe, right behind London. Thanks to its rapidly growing production infrastructure and attractive incentives, the country has become a preferred destination for major film and TV projects. In 2023 alone, film production spending in Hungary reached 835 million EUR ($880 million USD), a remarkable fourfold increase since 2018.

According to Csaba Kael, Hungary’s government commissioner for film, this significant growth can be attributed to a combination of competitive tax incentives, world-class film studios, and a skilled production workforce, positioning Hungary as a major player in the global production industry.

Why Hungary Is Europe’s New Film Powerhouse

Several key factors have contributed to Hungary’s rise as a top filming destination:

• Tax Incentives: Hungary offers up to 30% in tax rebates for production spending, making it an appealing option for international studios looking to stretch their budgets. These financial benefits have become a critical factor for Hollywood studios and independent filmmakers alike, offering significant cost savings compared to other European production hubs.

• World-Class Studios: Hungary is home to some of Europe’s top-tier production facilities, including Stern Studios, Origo Studios, and Korda Studios. These cutting-edge facilities are equipped to handle everything from independent films to major Hollywood blockbusters, providing flexible soundstages, advanced technologies, and comprehensive post-production services.

• Skilled Talent and Crews: Hungary boasts a highly experienced production workforce, known for its technical expertise and professionalism. Whether it’s on-set crew, post-production specialists, or technical support, Hungary has the talent to deliver high-quality productions.

• Diverse Locations: From the vibrant streets of Budapest to its picturesque countryside, Hungary offers a variety of shooting locations that appeal to filmmakers looking for versatility. These unique settings, combined with the country’s rich architectural heritage, make Hungary a compelling choice for productions across all genres.

Major Productions Flocking to Hungary

Hungary’s growing appeal to international studios is evident in the high-profile projects filming in the country. Most recently, A24 announced that its upcoming film The Entertainment System Is Down, directed by Ruben Östlund and starring Keanu Reeves, Kirsten Dunst, and Woody Harrelson, will begin shooting in Hungary from early to late Q1 2025. This follows A24’s 2023 production The Death of a Unicorn, also filmed in Hungary.

Over the past 20 years, more than 500 international productions have taken advantage of Hungary’s production-friendly environment. With the combination of financial savings, state-of-the-art studios, and diverse filming locations, it’s no wonder Hollywood continues to choose Hungary.

What Hungary’s Growth Means for the Global Production Community

As Hungary’s stature in the global production landscape grows, it presents exciting opportunities for the entire industry. For production companies, soundstage operators, and service providers, Hungary offers a cost-effective, high-quality production hub with plenty of room for expansion. The country’s production ecosystem is expanding to meet the increasing demand, with new facilities and infrastructure developments making it an even more attractive option for global projects.

At StageRunner, we see Hungary as a critical market for film and TV production. If you’re a producer, soundstage operator, or vendor looking to tap into this booming region, we can help you connect with the right opportunities. Hungary’s combination of world-class facilities, tax advantages, and skilled talent makes it a top choice for major international productions.

With Hungary now firmly established as Europe’s #2 production hub, the future looks bright for filmmakers and service providers looking to maximize their production value. Stay connected with StageRunner to learn more about how you can benefit from Hungary’s continued growth.

If you’re interested in exploring production opportunities in Hungary or connecting with its growing industry, contact StageRunner today.