ROMANIA

Romania offers an exceptional range of landscapes, from the medieval charm of its towns to the untamed beauty of its mountains and forests. Its rich historical and cultural heritage, combined with modern urban scenes, makes it an adaptable and appealing choice for various film genres.

Romania, a cinematic treasure trove, uniquely blends historical gravitas with natural splendor. Its landscape is a tapestry of medieval towns, castles, and fortresses, each telling stories of a rich past. These historical sites are not just relics; they are vibrant, living parts of the community, often bustling with activity, offering authentic backdrops for period pieces.

Equally captivating are Romania’s natural landscapes. The Carpathian Mountains, with their rugged peaks and deep forests, provide a dramatic setting, reminiscent of classic fantasy and adventure films. The Danube Delta, a UNESCO World Heritage site, presents a serene and untouched natural beauty, ideal for documentaries and nature-focused narratives.

Romania’s urban landscapes, especially the capital, Bucharest, fuse architectural styles from different eras. This mix of Art Nouveau, Communist-era brutalism, and modern developments, allows Bucharest to double as various European cities, giving filmmakers versatile urban settings.

The Romanian film industry, while growing in prominence, retains a sense of a close-knit community. This atmosphere fosters collaborative relationships between local and international filmmakers, creating a welcoming environment for creative endeavors.

Standing Sets
AmericanSuburbia Castel
BostonSet Buftea
JERICHO Wednesday Sets Buftea
Medieval set Buftea
Nevermore Buftea
Old TwonFrame Backlot
UrbanStreet Castel
Western Set Castel
Locations
Romania's landscapes and architecture offer a multitude of shooting locations, each with its unique charm:
Carpathian Mountains

These majestic mountains are versatile for filming, from dense, ancient forests ideal for mystical scenes to high peaks perfect for epic landscapes. They offer natural, unspoiled backdrops for adventure and fantasy stories.

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Transylvanian Villages

Transylvania is more than just the land of Dracula; it’s a region of rich history and culture. Places like Sighișoara, with its well-preserved walled town and cobblestone streets, provide authentic medieval settings. Biertan, with its fortified church, is another picturesque location.

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Black Sea Coastline

The coastline offers a contrast from the rest of Romania’s landscapes with its sandy beaches and modern resorts, ideal for contemporary storylines and leisure scenes.

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Danube Delta

A UNESCO World Heritage site, it is a haven for unique wildlife and has a labyrinth of waterways and lakes, perfect for nature documentaries or tranquil, introspective scenes.

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Bucharest

This bustling capital city offers a juxtaposition of Communist-era architecture and modern skyscrapers, along with historical landmarks like the Palace of the Parliament, providing a versatile urban backdrop.

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Historical Castles and Fortresses

Bran Castle, often associated with the Dracula legend, offers a gothic setting, while Peleș Castle showcases opulent, neo-Renaissance architecture. Corvin Castle in Hunedoara, with its fairy-tale-like appearance, is ideal for historical and fantasy narratives.

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Painted Monasteries of Bucovina

These monasteries are unique for their exterior frescoes depicting biblical scenes, offering a rare and visually striking location for historical and religious-themed films.

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Cluj-Napocas

A city in Transylvania known for its vibrant cultural life and Baroque architecture, it can represent both historical and modern urban European settings.

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Each of these locations in Romania provides filmmakers with an array of choices, ensuring that whatever the narrative requirement, there is a setting that can bring the story to life with authenticity and visual splendor.
Sound Stages in Romania

There is a variety of sound stages in Romania, mostly located in Bucharest and vicinity, encompassing sizes from 400 sqm, up to 3500 sqm Stage 5 in Castel Film Studios, Stage 12A+B (3500) in Buftea Studiosand 4200 sqm – the King’s Hangar in Frame Fillm Studios, the largest sound stage in Eastern Europe. Several watertanks are also available, including an 800 sqm /5.5m deep in Stage 9 in Buftea Studios

Film Shooting Equipment Availability in Romania
Romania’s film industry is well-equipped to support a wide range of productions, from independent films to large-scale international projects. The country offers a 
comprehensive selection of equipment:

  1. Cameras: Romania’s rental services provide a variety of camera options, including the latest digital and film cameras suitable for any production need.

  2. Lighting and Grip Equipment: There is a wide array of lighting and grip equipment available to suit different shooting styles and requirements, from basic setups 
  3. to advanced rigging systems.

  4. Sound Equipment: High-quality sound recording equipment, including microphones and sound mixing boards, are readily available for on-location shoots.

  5. Post-Production Facilities: Romania has several state-of-the-art post-production facilities equipped with the latest technology for editing, color grading, and 
  6. visual effects.

  7. Specialized Equipment: For more specialized needs, such as drones for aerial shots or underwater filming equipment, there are rental services that can provide 
  8. these.
 
This extensive availability of high-quality equipment, along with skilled technicians and support staff, ensures that film productions in Romania can achieve their creative 
vision effectively and efficiently.
Weather Contidions in Romania
Romania’s climate is characterized by a diversity that can greatly benefit film production. The country experiences four distinct seasons, each offering its own unique 
backdrop and atmosphere for filming.
 
  1. Spring (March to May): This season sees the blooming of landscapes, providing a colorful and vibrant setting. The weather is generally mild, making it ideal 
  2. for outdoor shoots.
  3. Summer (June to August): Romanian summers are warm and long, offering extended daylight hours for shooting. The countryside and urban areas alike bask 
  4. in bright sunshine, perfect for vibrant scenes.
  5. Autumn (September to November): Autumn in Romania is visually stunning, with rich, golden hues in the forests and vineyards. The cooler, yet comfortable 
  6. temperatures and the soft, diffused light make it a favorite for capturing the natural beauty.
  7. Winter (December to February): Winters can be cold, with snowfall common in the mountains. This season provides picturesque snowy landscapes, ideal for 
  8. winter scenes and Christmas-themed films.
 
The varied Romanian weather allows for a wide range of filming possibilities, from sunny, summer scenes to winter wonderlands, making it a versatile location choice for 
productions aiming for specific seasonal settings.
Travel and Visas in Romania

Traveling to and within Romania is convenient for film crews due to the country’s well-developed transportation infrastructure. The major airports, especially in Bucharest, offer direct flights to numerous international destinations, facilitating easy access for international teams. Additionally, Romania’s road and rail networks are extensive, providing efficient travel options across the country.

Regarding visas, Romania is part of the European Union but not a member of the Schengen Area. Therefore, film crews from non-EU countries may require visas. The visa process is straightforward, and assistance can be provided by local production companies or the Romanian Film Commission. It’s advisable to check the latest visa requirements and seek professional advice for specific circumstances. This proactive approach ensures a smooth entry and stay in Romania for international film productions.

Film Tax Incentives in Romania
Romania’s film tax incentive is designed to be competitive and appealing to international productions. Here’s a detailed breakdown. The program was 
 
  1. Rebate Percentage: The program offers a cash rebate of up to 35% on qualifying expenditures, with an additional 10% for productions that promote Romanian culture, totaling up to 45%.
  2. Qualifying Expenditures: These include costs related to labor (including foreign personnel), set construction, wardrobe, accessories, sound and lighting, post-production, and rental of equipment and locations. The program is comprehensive, covering a wide array of production-related expenses.
  3. Cultural Test: Productions must pass a cultural test, which evaluates elements like the story’s relevance to European and Romanian culture, use of local talent and resources, and the project’s contribution to the promotion of Romania.
  4. Minimum Spend Requirements: There’s a minimum spending requirement to qualify for the incentive. This threshold varies based on the type of production, such as feature films, TV series, or documentaries.
  5. Application Process: Productions must apply for the rebate before starting their shoot. The application process involves submitting a detailed project proposal, budget, and script, among other documentation.
  6. Payment of Rebate: The rebate is paid after the production completes and submits a comprehensive audit of the expenses incurred in Romania.
This incentive program makes Romania not only a culturally and visually appealing location but also a financially strategic choice for filmmakers. It supports a range of 
production scales, from independent films to major studio projects.

About

Frame Film

FRAME FILM is a production company and studio facility founded by producers Andrei Boncea and director Dragos Buliga joined by producers Gabriel Popescu, our British partner, producer Christopher Milburn and our French partner, media executive Jean Christophe Lestra. FRAME FILM joined slovak film producer and local entrepreneur Rasto Kuril to create FRAME FILM SK.

FRAME FILM and the founders Andrei Boncea and Dragoș Buliga created and produced the most succesful romanian tv series of all time, LAS FIERBINTI, still going on strong after 22 seasons. The team credits includes romanian adaptations of british comedy series THE WORST WEEK OF MY LIFE and spanish comedy series LOS HOMBRE DE PACO. Recently, three new comedy series , ATLETICO TEXTILA, OUR FOLKS, TRIPLU SEC were produced by the team. Dragos Buliga directed also the pilot for the new series created by Nae Caranfil, SATURDAY NIGHT YEARS. He made his big debut in international cinema with the fantasy thriller The WANDERERS, starring Armand Assante, Lior Ashkenazi and Branko Djuric.

Andrei Boncea credits as a producer includes Academy Award nominated JOYEUX NOEL, directed by Christian Carion and Un Certain Regard Cannes winner CALIFORNIA DREAMIN’, directed by Christian Nemescu, AMEN, directed by Costa Gavras, CALLAS FOREVER, directed by Franco Zefirelli.

Chris Milburn has produced over twenty-five feature films, working internationally across the UK, Eastern Europe, the United States and Asia, including “An American Haunting” which was Chris’s first production in Romania which he produced alongside Andrei Boncea in 2004. The film , directed by Courtney Solomon, starred Donald Sutherland and Sissy Spacek and had success in both the US and international markets.

Gabi Popescu credits includes projects like The Protege, directed by Martin Campbell, starring Samuel Jackson and Michael Keaton. and Bunraki, directed by Guy Moshe, starring Josh Harnett, Demi Moore, Woody Harrelson.

Rasto Kuril credits includes the production management of major international production shot in Slovakia, such as VAN HELSING, DRACULA, HANNA, RED SPARROW. production reel https://vimeo.com/685272555/687e9c2a94

As a production service, FRAME FILM worked for also for numerous international commercial productions with clients such as Viacom Hungary (Comedy Club), Henry France (Winamax, Coyote), Pool Films Switzerland (Swiss Tourism), Henry de Czar (NN Insurance), Handsome Paris (Manor), The Sweetshop Films UK (Three Mobile).

Recently our company completed the production service for supernatural thriller DAMPYR, produced by Eagle Pictures, directed by Riccardo Chemello, starring Wade Briggs, Frida Gustavsson and Stuart Martin and for the action HE PROTEJE, produced by Millenium Films, starring Michael Keaton, Samuel L. Jackson, Maggie Q., directed by Martin Campbell.

Recently our company completed the production for DJANGO – The Series, produced by Cattleya Italy (Ricardo Tozzi,) and Atlantique Productions France (Olivier Bibas), for STUDIOCANAL/ Sky Originals, directed by Francesca Comencini, starring Matthias Schoenaerts Our sloval unit. Frame Film SK competed the production of THE PERFORMANCE, directed by Shira Piven, starring Jeremy Piven and Robert Carlyle, and THE STRANGERS Trilogy, directed by Renny Harlin, starring Madelaine Petsch and Gabe Basso.

Maxim Behar

Maxim Behar is a globally renowned PR expert, entrepreneur, journalist, diplomat, and Harvard Kennedy School graduate. He is the founder and CEO of the Bulgarian leading PR company M3 Communication Group, Inc., exclusive partner of Hill and Knowlton.

Maxim is a Harvard Kennedy School graduate, former President of the World PR Organization ICCO, currently ICCO International Growth Chair also International Fellow of PRCA, President of the World Communications Forum Association in Davos, Switzerland, and Advisory Board Member of one of the most influential European Universities ENGAGE.EU.

In his extensive media & PR career Maxim Behar met hundreds of dignitaries and discussed with them current business and political topics. Among them are King Charles III, former US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, former Presidents Shimon Peres (Israel), Lech Valesa (Poland), Vaclav Havel (Czech Republic), former Prime Ministers Tzippy Livni (Israel), Felipe Gonzalez (Spain) Prince Michael of Kent, Lord Black of Brentwood and Lord Pickles,

He has been inducted into the Global PR Hall of Fame in London and awarded many titles, among them Best PR Professional in Europe for 2020 and 2022 by PR Week, Global CEO of the Year by The International Stevie Awards, and Communicator of the Decade by the Indian Association of Business Communications. His book The Global PR Revolution  was ranked among the Top 3 Best PR Books of All Time by Book Authority. Maxim Behar is also a Honorary Consul General of Republic of Seychelles to Bulgaria.

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Valentin Dimitrov

Valentin Dimitrov is an exceptionally accomplished and experienced film producer and line producer with a remarkable international background. In his role as the Head of Production at Nu Boyana, a production company with operations spanning Bulgaria and Spain over the last seven years, he has demonstrated his skill in successfully managing film productions with a diverse range of budgets. This extensive experience has provided him with a comprehensive understanding of the filmmaking industry.

Valentin’s work has taken him to five different continents, endowing him with a unique and well-rounded perspective on the film production process. His deep passion for cinema, creative flair, and versatility make him an invaluable asset in bringing cinematic ideas to life.

His capabilities also extend to project management, where he possesses a natural ability to oversee multiple projects concurrently. With more than 20 years of experience in the film industry, his continued enthusiasm for the work is a testament to his unwavering dedication and love for the field. During his journey in the film business, he had the chance to work with some of the most famous film studios, including Disney, Netflix, 20th Century fox, Warner Brothers, Paramount pictures amongst others. His name is associated with iconic titles such as “Conan”, “300”, “Rambo”, “Young Woman and the Sea”, ”The Expendables”, “Hitman’s Bodyguard” and numerous others, further solidifying his reputation in the industry.

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Sagiv Diamant

Sagiv Diamant holds degrees from the University of Arizona in Media Arts and Business, as well as an MBA from the Rochester Institute of Technology. He launched his career at Foresight Unlimited, where, in addition to film production, he excelled in film packaging, focusing on foreign sales, international distribution, and financing.

Noteworthy among his producer credits are “We Die Young,” a Netflix sensation reaching #3 domestically, and “God The Father.” Sagiv also contributed as a production manager on several prominent European-shot films, including “Memory,” featuring Liam Neeson and Guy Pearce, released worldwide in 2022. Furthermore, he played a key role in “Tin Soldier,” starring Jamie Foxx and Robert De Niro, and “Dirty Angels,” directed by Martin Campbell and starring Eva Green, both currently in post-production.

His comprehensive knowledge in film production, encompassing budgeting, scheduling, and logistical planning, extends to leveraging tax rebates across Europe to ensure cost efficiency. Sagiv’s unique combination of creativity, strategic insight, and business acumen fuels his unwavering passion for filmmaking, evident in his involvement in multiple projects currently in the development and pre-production stages.

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Moshe Diamant

Moshe Diamant boasts a remarkable and extensive career with over 70 producer credits to his name. His journey began in the late 1970s when he initially trained as an engineer, acquiring the expertise to pioneer a groundbreaking subtitling process for video that swiftly garnered the attention of Hollywood. However, his passion for the production side of the industry soon took center stage.

Diamant embarked on a significant partnership in the realm of production by co-founding Trans World Entertainment, a prominent production house that thrived from 1983 to 1993. During this pivotal period, he honed a specialization in crafting low-budget action films, frequently featuring martial arts luminaries like Shô Kosugi, who took the lead in one of Diamant’s notable creations, “Pray for Death” (1985). It was only a matter of time before Diamant’s path crossed with Belgian action maestro Jean-Claude Van Damme, and he went on to produce multiple movies alongside the iconic actor. These collaborations encompassed diverse ventures, including the globe-trotting thriller “Double Impact” (1991), where Van Damme portrayed twins, and the enthralling science-fiction-infused action flick “Timecop” (1994).

Following the conclusion of Trans World Entertainment, Diamant embarked on a journey of diversification, both in terms of genres and budgets. His repertoire expanded to include projects such as the e-horror offering “Feardotcom” (2002) and the 2006 Brian De Palma-directed period mystery biopic, “The Black Dahlia” (2006). In the same year, he produced “Tristan + Isolde” (2006), starring James Franco.

Notably, Diamant has continued to make a significant impact on the cinematic landscape with his more recent productions. These include the high-octane heist film “The Hurricane Heist” (2018), a $37 million spectacle directed by Rob Cohen and featuring a star-studded ensemble including Toby Kebbell, Maggie Grace, and Ryan Kwanten. His portfolio also boasts “Protege” (2020), a gripping thriller directed by Martin Campbell and headlined by acclaimed actors Michael Keaton and Samuel L. Jackson. Diamant’s most recent endeavors include “Memory” (2022), directed by Martin Campbell and starring the formidable duo of Liam Neeson and Guy Pearce. Currently, he is in post-production on “Dirty Angels”, also directed by Martin Campbell and featuring the talented Eva Green, marking yet another exciting chapter in his illustrious career.

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