Scotland has firmly established itself as a global hotspot for film and television production, attracting a diverse slate of high-profile projects from across the entertainment industry. With its unparalleled landscapes, versatile urban architecture, and modern studio facilities, the country continues to play host to some of the most notable productions of the past decade.

Glasgow and Edinburgh remain cornerstones of this success, showcasing their adaptability as backdrops for iconic cities around the world. Glasgow has transformed into Gotham City for The Batman and The Flash, 1960s New York for Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny, and London for Hobbs & Shaw. Edinburgh and Aberdeenshire, meanwhile, provide stunning period settings, with the upcoming Frankenstein serving as a prime example. Scotland’s dramatic scenery also takes center stage in projects like Outlander and The Outrun, both of which lean heavily on the country’s natural beauty to tell their stories.

Supporting this cinematic renaissance are Scotland’s modern production facilities, such as First Stage Studios in Leith and Wardpark Film and Television Studios in Cumbernauld. These world-class studios, combined with a growing reputation for delivering seamless productions, give filmmakers the flexibility to combine Scotland’s iconic landscapes with advanced soundstage capabilities. Cheryl Conway, head of Screen Commission at Screen Scotland, highlights the country’s “versatility” as a key draw for producers. With generous tax incentives and additional funding, Scotland remains competitive in attracting large-scale productions. For instance, Glasgow City Council contributed $190,000 (£150,000) to Warner Bros. for Batgirl, underscoring the city’s commitment to supporting the film industry.

The economic benefits of this booming production scene are substantial, although not without complexities. Productions bring valuable opportunities for local crew members and businesses, fostering long-term sustainability for Scotland’s creative industries. Films like Frankenstein, Andor, and Avengers: Endgame create jobs, boost tourism, and provide a global platform for Scottish talent. Tourism in particular has seen notable growth, with Outlander tours becoming a staple for visitors seeking to explore the series’ iconic filming locations.

As Hollywood continues to invest in Scotland, the local film industry reaps the benefits of increased training opportunities, industry experience, and global exposure. Screen Scotland and local stakeholders remain focused on maximizing the long-term impact of these productions. Upcoming projects like The Running Man and Frankenstein promise to further elevate Scotland’s presence on the global screen, ensuring that the country continues to thrive as one of the world’s premier filmmaking destinations.

Here are some of the most notable productions filmed in Scotland:

• Frankenstein (Netflix)

• The Rig Series 2 (Prime Video)

• Fear (Prime Video)

• Lockerbie: A Search for Truth (Sky)

• One Day (Netflix)

• Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny (Amblin)

• The Outrun (Arcade Pictures)

• Tetris (Apple TV+)

• Andor (Disney+)

• The Batman (Warner Bros.)

• California Schemin’ (James McAvoy)

• Avengers: Infinity War (Marvel Studios)

• Avengers: Endgame (Marvel Studios)

• The Princess Switch Trilogy (Netflix)