Can Georgia's Cinematic Dreams Become Reality?
Georgia, a captivating Caucasus nation, is on a mission to become the cinematic hub of the region, akin to Hollywood. With its medieval churches, brutalist architecture, breathtaking mountains, and Tarantino-inspired dive bars, it's no wonder the country has been gaining attention from the film industry. From high-octane car chases in the Fast & Furious franchise to the wine-soaked tale of Drops of God, Georgia is making its mark on the big screen.
But is it enough to become the Caucasus' Hollywood? Tatia Bidzinashvili, director of Film in Georgia, a government-backed agency, believes so. She challenges the misconception that Georgia is like Zimbabwe, emphasizing the country's modern and vibrant European identity. Georgia's rich filmmaking history during the Soviet era, with the iconic Georgian Film Studio, further solidifies its credentials.
Georgia's allure is undeniable: robust financial incentives, including a 25% cash rebate on qualified costs, an experienced crew ecosystem, a one-stop service for location scouting and permits, and a diverse urban and natural landscape. Irakli Makatsaria, a Georgian television presenter and producer, highlights the country's accessibility to various environments, from snowy mountains to sunny beaches, within a few hours' drive.
However, Georgia's cinematic aspirations face challenges. The country's political instability under the leadership of Irakli Kobakhidze, who assumed office in February 2024, has raised concerns. Human rights advocates accuse the government of steering the country towards authoritarianism, stifling dissent, and intensifying pressure on opposition parties and independent media. The alignment with Russia, which has a history of military aggression, adds another layer of complexity.
Anna Khazaradze, co-founder of 1991 Productions, shares the reality of living under such conditions, where even film-friendly countries face the arrest of their friends. Despite the challenges, Georgia's centralized state and eagerness to attract productions remain advantages. When F9 needed a shutdown of Rustaveli Avenue for its car chase scene, the city obliged, showcasing its commitment to filmmaking.
Georgia's proximity to Russia, following its invasion of Ukraine in 2022, has also caused jitters among foreign productions. Makatsaria's experience with Special Ops, an Indian television series, demonstrates Georgia's willingness to accommodate filming near the border with Abkhazia, despite tensions. The country's complex history with Russia continues to inspire high-profile projects, such as the upcoming Young Stalin, a British-Georgian co-production.
Despite social conservatism, Georgia has hosted foreign productions addressing polarizing social issues. However, LGBTQ+ films face distribution hurdles due to a 2024 law targeting LGBTQ+ expression. Batumi, on the Black Sea, served as the backdrop for Crossing, a Swedish drama, but struggled to find distributors in Georgia due to anti-LGBT sentiment.
Georgia's versatility as a filming location is evident in Girls of the Sun, where it stood in for Iraqi Kurdistan. The country's private production companies offer full pre- and post-production services, but finding large soundstages remains a challenge. The warm hospitality culture, including historic villas converted into high-end lodgings, and the local cuisine, with dishes like khinkali and khachapuri, also attract Hollywood executives and directors.
Georgia's cinematic dreams may be within reach, but the country must navigate political challenges and maintain its unique charm to become the Caucasus' Hollywood. The question remains: Can Georgia's passion for filmmaking overcome its complexities and secure its place in the global cinematic landscape?
