Canary Islands: A Rising Star in Global Film Production

The Canary Islands are solidifying their reputation as a premier destination for international film production, thanks to a robust framework of tax incentives, advanced audiovisual infrastructure, and a skilled workforce. This was prominently showcased during the CIIF Market 2025, where the event titled “Case Study: International Productions in the Canary Islands” emphasized the region’s growing maturity in the film sector and the vital contributions of local production companies.

Volcano Films: Pioneering International Collaborations

Among the highlights of the event was Volcano Films, a leading service production company in the Canary Islands with over 30 years of industry experience. The company presented two significant projects that exemplify the benefits of international co-productions and the local tax incentives available. These case studies illustrated the ongoing development of the audiovisual landscape within the islands.

Producers Sebastián Álvarez and Alejandro Álamo from Volcano Films discussed their two projects: La Palma, an international production set to premiere on Netflix in 2024, and The Hive, a co-production with Germany’s augenschein Filmproduktion, scheduled for filming in 2025. Both projects underscore the collaborative spirit and the potential for growth within the local film industry.

Insights into Successful Productions

The first project, La Palma, produced by Norwegian company Fantefilm, was filmed across Tenerife and La Palma. The series is anticipated to achieve significant viewership, having already garnered attention as a top contender among non-English productions globally. Álamo noted that the project originated from a location scouting visit organized by the Tenerife Film Commission in 2021, leading to Volcano Films managing the production, which involved over 1,000 extras, 20 supporting actors, and 300 technicians, predominantly sourced from the islands. Impressively, 85% of the crew were local, highlighting the economic benefits of international productions for the region.

This case exemplifies how effective collaboration between film commissions, tax incentives, and local companies can enhance the audiovisual sector’s capabilities, establishing the Canary Islands as a key player in managing complex international projects.

Advancing Towards Co-Production Models

The second project, The Hive, represents a notable shift towards international co-production. This film, co-produced by Volcano Films and augenschein Filmproduktion, will be filmed in Tenerife in the summer of 2025, featuring a predominantly Canarian crew and directed by Martín Rosete. Unlike traditional service models, this project involves the Canarian producer in both financing and creative development, showcasing a more integrated approach to international filmmaking.

Starring notable actors Franka Potente and Sophie Cookson, The Hive will combine filming locations in Tenerife with scenes shot in Germany, further elevating the international profile of cinema produced in the Canary Islands. Álvarez remarked on the rapid development of this project, attributing its success to the trust established through previous collaborations with the German production company.

Volcano Films has proven to be a cornerstone in attracting international projects to the Canary Islands, demonstrating the local industry’s ability to compete globally by providing exceptional talent, logistical support, and high technical standards.

The event highlighted the transformation of the Canary Islands from a mere filming location to an active participant in the global audiovisual industry, capable of generating skilled employment and contributing to economic diversification. Guillermo Ríos, director of the CIIF Market, emphasized the significance of Canarian talent and the collaborative efforts of entities like the Audiovisual Cluster and the Tenerife Film Commission in positioning the archipelago as a creative hub.

The CIIF Market aims to enhance the visibility of the Canarian audiovisual sector and facilitate the exchange of best practices among local and international producers. The 21st edition of this market is currently taking place in Santa Cruz de Tenerife, running until October 31, and brings together producers, distributors, and financial agents to promote co-production and investment opportunities.

Key points

• The Canary Islands are becoming a top choice for international film production.
• Volcano Films has over 30 years of experience in the industry.
• The projects La Palma and The Hive showcase successful international collaborations.
• 85% of the crew for La Palma were local, highlighting economic benefits.
• The CIIF Market 2025 is focused on promoting the Canarian audiovisual sector.
• Canary Islands are evolving into a hub for creativity and skilled employment.