Serbia is rapidly emerging as a top-tier destination for film and television production, and at the heart of this cinematic renaissance is Firefly Studios. This state-of-the-art facility, located just 20 miles east of Belgrade, is redefining the country’s production landscape.

Co-founded by producer Ivana Mikovic, Firefly Studios opened its doors in 2023, offering a comprehensive suite of production services, including three soundstages, a massive water tank, and expansive backlots. This strategic combination of resources has quickly positioned Serbia as a compelling alternative to more established European filming locations.

Firefly Studios has already made a significant impact on the global stage, hosting the production of Martin Scorsese’s highly anticipated series, “The Saints.” The studio’s world-class facilities, coupled with Serbia’s competitive production environment, were instrumental in attracting this prestigious project.

The eight one-hour episodes series will explore the stories of extraordinary men and women who risked everything to embody the noblest and most complex essence of the human race: faith. Each episode will focus on Joan of Arc, Francis of Assisi, John the Baptist, Thomas Becket, Mary Magdalene, Moses the Black, Sebastian and Maximillian Kolbe.

“Almost all my life I have lived with the stories of the saints, thinking about their words and deeds, imagining the worlds they lived in, the choices they faced, the examples they set. These are the stories of eight very different men and women. Each of them lived in completely different historical periods, and all followed the path of love that is revealed to them and to us in the words of Jesus in the Gospels. I look forward to this project being underway and to working with so many reliable and talented collaborators,” said Martin Scorsese in a statement.

Acclaimed Serbian production designer Miljen Kreka Kljaković (Delicatessen, Underground), will revive the atmosphere of four historical stories.

“I had the great honour of working with the legendary Kreka on Barry Levinson’s The Survivor. He invited me to Belgrade, I came, fell in love with the city and promised him that I would return to film here. It’s a great pleasure to be with Kreka again and it’s an honour to work with Ivana Miković and all the talented people in Firefly production,” said creator and executive producer Mati Lešem.

Serbia offers a compelling package for filmmakers: a generous 25-30% cash rebate, a skilled local crew boasting a rich tapestry of talent, and a diverse range of filming locations. From bustling cityscapes to stunning natural landscapes, the country provides an ideal backdrop for a variety of genres.

Firefly Studios’ 10-acre backlot, featuring a meticulously crafted medieval town, is a testament to Serbia’s ability to cater to period dramas and epic productions. The studio’s commitment to excellence extends beyond its physical infrastructure. It offers a full range of production services, including location scouting, casting, and post-production, making it a one-stop shop for filmmakers.

As the global production industry continues to evolve, Serbia is positioning itself as a leading player. With its competitive advantages, coupled with new world-class facilities like Firefly Studios, the country is attracting top-tier productions and nurturing a thriving local film industry.