By: James Brown
Italy has always been a muse for storytellers—a land where art, history, and breathtaking landscapes converge to create a backdrop like no other. Yet, beyond the familiar vistas of Rome’s ancient ruins and Venice’s romantic canals lies a wealth of unexplored locales that could redefine cinematic storytelling. ORBIS Production, a leading film production company in Italy, is opening doors to these hidden gems, offering filmmakers and agencies not just locations but a comprehensive production experience that rivals the best in the world.
For those in search of fresh narratives and captivating settings, Italy presents an unparalleled opportunity. The country’s diverse terrains—from the rugged cliffs of the Amalfi Coast to the serene vineyards of Tuscany—offer a rich tapestry for filmmakers to weave their stories. However, accessing these exclusive locations and navigating the complexities of international production can be daunting. This is where ORBIS Production steps in, acting as both guide and collaborator, bridging the gap between creative vision and logistical reality.
Unlocking Italy’s Cinematic Potential
Founded in 2009, ORBIS Production has established itself as a premier Italian video production company with a global reach. With additional offices in Paris, Zurich, Vienna, Ljubljana, Munich, London, and Dubai, they offer seamless access to Europe’s most captivating settings. Their team, a blend of seasoned professionals and fresh talent, brings a multicultural perspective that enriches every project they undertake.
“There’s a world within Italy that’s yet to be discovered by international cinema,” says Elena Lusardi, Senior Producer at ORBIS Production. “Our passion is to unveil these hidden treasures, providing filmmakers with locations that not only enhance their narratives but also bring an authentic Italian essence to their stories.”
One of the significant challenges in filming abroad is navigating the intricate web of permits and regulations, especially in a country like Italy, where many sites are protected due to their historical and cultural significance. ORBIS Production’s deep-rooted relationships with local authorities and understanding of regional laws streamline this process. They handle all the necessary permits, ensuring compliance with preservation statutes while allowing filmmakers to focus on the creative aspects of their work.
“Securing a permit in Italy isn’t just about paperwork; it’s about respecting the heritage and collaborating with communities,” explains Lusardi. “We pride ourselves on facilitating this dialogue, making sure that productions are both permissible and welcomed.”
Moreover, Italy offers attractive tax incentives for foreign film productions, with credits covering up to 40% of eligible expenses. ORBIS guides clients through the application process, maximizing these financial benefits and making Italy not just an aesthetically pleasing choice but a fiscally responsible one.
Unveiling Italy’s Hidden Cinematic Landscapes
For Hollywood studios, global brands, and creative agencies seeking fresh and captivating settings, Italy is a treasure trove that extends far beyond its iconic landmarks. While the Colosseum and Venice’s canals have graced countless screens, it’s the lesser-known locales that offer untapped potential for storytelling. ORBIS Production specializes in unlocking these cinematic gems, providing unparalleled access and expertise.
The Dolomites: Nestled in northeastern Italy, the Dolomite Mountains offer dramatic peaks, verdant valleys, and idyllic alpine villages. This UNESCO World Heritage site is perfect for action-packed sequences, fantasy epics, or any narrative requiring breathtaking natural grandeur. The snow-capped peaks and crystal-clear lakes provide a versatile backdrop for both summer blockbusters and winter dramas.
Milan: Italy’s fashion capital is not just about haute couture. Milan’s blend of historic architecture and modern design offers a dynamic urban backdrop. From the gothic splendor of the Duomo to sleek skyscrapers like the Unicredit Tower, the city embodies a cosmopolitan vibe perfect for contemporary narratives.
Cinque Terre: Comprising five picturesque villages perched along the rugged Ligurian coastline, Cinque Terre boasts colorful houses, terraced vineyards, and panoramic sea views. Its unique charm is ideal for romantic comedies, dramas, and commercials seeking an authentic Mediterranean feel.
Matera: Known as “La Città Sotterranea” (The Subterranean City), Matera’s ancient cave dwellings and stone structures transport viewers back in time. Recently featured in high-profile films, its labyrinthine streets are perfect for historical dramas, biblical epics, or dystopian narratives.
Puglia’s Trulli Houses: In the heel of Italy’s boot lies Puglia, home to the distinctive trulli—whitewashed stone huts with conical roofs. The town of Alberobello, a UNESCO site, offers a whimsical and otherworldly backdrop suitable for fantasy tales and fairy-tale productions.
Naples and the Amalfi Coast: Beyond the bustling streets of Naples, the Amalfi Coast unfolds with dramatic cliffs, azure seas, and lemon groves. Towns like Positano and Ravello exude luxury and romance, making them prime locations for high-end brand campaigns and cinematic love stories.
Capri: The island of Capri, with its glamorous reputation and stunning natural beauty, offers the famed Blue Grotto, rugged landscapes, and upscale ambiance. It’s an excellent choice for productions aiming to capture elegance and exclusivity.
Genoa: This port city combines maritime charm with rich history. Its narrow alleyways and grand palaces create an atmospheric setting reminiscent of bygone eras. Genoa’s diverse architecture makes it a flexible location for period pieces and modern stories alike.
Trieste: Located at Italy’s northeastern tip, Trieste boasts a unique blend of Italian, Austro-Hungarian, and Slovenian influences. Its grand plazas, historic cafés, and seafront vistas provide a sophisticated urban setting with a touch of old-world charm.
Florence: The cradle of the Renaissance, Florence is a living museum of art and architecture. While known, its quieter streets, artisan workshops, and surrounding Tuscan hills offer fresh perspectives for period pieces, art-centric narratives, and luxury brand commercials.
The Italian Lakes: Beyond Como and Garda, lakes such as Lake Maggiore and Lake Orta offer serene waters bordered by lush gardens and elegant villas. These locales are perfect for evocative storytelling that requires tranquility and natural beauty.
Emilia-Romagna Countryside: Home to rolling hills, vineyards, and the historic cities of Bologna and Modena, this region is ideal for culinary adventures, road-trip narratives, and stories that celebrate Italy’s rich gastronomic heritage.
Rome: Beyond the well-trodden tourist sites, Rome hides a multitude of locales that offer fresh perspectives on the Eternal City. Hidden courtyards, underground catacombs, and suburban neighborhoods provide unique settings that transcend the typical Roman imagery.
Aeolian Islands: Off the northern coast of Sicily, this volcanic archipelago includes islands like Stromboli and Lipari. With their black sand beaches, steaming craters, and crystal-clear waters, they provide exotic landscapes for adventure and sci-fi genres.
Civita di Bagnoregio: Known as “The Dying City,” this tiny hilltop town in central Italy is accessible only by a pedestrian bridge. Its medieval architecture and isolated setting offer a hauntingly beautiful backdrop for fantasy and historical films.
Sardinia’s Costa Smeralda: Famous for its turquoise waters and pristine beaches, this stretch of Sardinia’s coastline is a paradise for commercials and films seeking an unspoiled tropical aesthetic without leaving Europe.
Val d’Orcia: This UNESCO-listed valley in Tuscany features iconic cypress-lined roads, golden wheat fields, and rustic farmhouses. It’s the quintessential Italian countryside, ideal for dramas and romantic narratives.
Turin: Italy’s former capital combines Baroque architecture with modern industrial sites. Its grand boulevards, palaces, and the Po River make it a versatile location for urban stories with historical depth.
Bologna: Known for its medieval towers and extensive portico walkways, Bologna offers a unique urban landscape. Its vibrant university scene adds youthful energy, suitable for contemporary dramas and comedies.
Lake Braies: Nestled in the Dolomites, this emerald-green lake is surrounded by towering mountains and dense forests. It’s an enchanting setting for fantasy sequences, nature documentaries, and reflective moments in storytelling.
Venice: While famous, Venice’s lesser-known canals and islands like Burano and Murano offer fresh takes on the city’s enchanting atmosphere.
Portofino: This quaint fishing village on the Italian Riviera is synonymous with luxury and charm. Its colorful harbor and upscale ambiance are perfect for high-end productions seeking elegance and exclusivity.
Bridging Cultural and Logistical Gaps
Beyond logistics, ORBIS provides comprehensive production services that cater to every need of a modern filmmaker. Their bilingual crews are adept at bridging cultural and communication gaps, ensuring that international teams can operate seamlessly within local contexts. Access to Italy’s top directors, cinematographers, and technical crews means that productions are enriched with local expertise and artistry.
“We believe that the fusion of local talent with international vision creates something truly unique,” says Mike Lisjak, Global Executive Producer at ORBIS Production. “Our network includes some of the creative minds in the industry, and we’re excited to facilitate collaborations that push the boundaries of storytelling.”
Their equipment inventory is state-of-the-art, featuring the latest in ARRI, RED, Sony, and DJI technologies. This commitment to quality ensures that productions meet the highest visual standards, essential for audiences accustomed to Hollywood-level production values.
An American director who recently worked with ORBIS shared his experience: “Filming in Italy was a dream, but it came with its challenges. ORBIS Production made it not just possible but enjoyable. Their professionalism and attention to detail allowed us to capture the essence of Italy in a way that felt authentic and effortless.”
ORBIS’s influence extends beyond Italy’s borders. Their offices across Europe and the Middle East mean they can facilitate productions in a variety of locales, each offering its own unique flavor. Whether it’s the historic charm of Vienna, the alpine majesty of Zurich, or the modern vibrancy of Dubai, ORBIS provides the same level of expertise and support.
“Every story has its perfect setting,” notes Lusardi. “Our international presence allows us to match narratives with environments that best enhance them, providing a seamless experience no matter where the production takes us.”
Their commitment to sustainability and ethical filming practices further distinguishes ORBIS in an industry increasingly conscious of its environmental impact. They implement eco-friendly measures to minimize their footprint, aligning with the values of many modern filmmakers and studios.
“Respect for the environment and local communities isn’t just a policy for us; it’s part of who we are,” Lusardi emphasizes. “We believe that responsible filmmaking leads to more meaningful stories and lasting relationships with the communities we engage with.”
A Partner in Storytelling Excellence
For U.S. agencies, brands and studios, working with ORBIS Production offers a partnership that goes beyond transactional interactions. It’s about forming a collaborative relationship where creative ideas are nurtured and logistical challenges are expertly managed. Their multicultural team is skilled at navigating the nuances of international productions, from cultural sensitivities to time zone differences.
Understanding the financial aspects is also crucial. ORBIS offers transparent and competitive pricing models, making high-quality European locations accessible without compromising on budgetary constraints. They assist clients in navigating currency exchanges, local taxation, and budgeting for international shoots, providing clarity and confidence throughout the project.
“Financial transparency builds trust,” says Lisjak. “We want our clients to feel secure in every aspect of the production, knowing there are no hidden surprises.”
One of the standout features of ORBIS Production is their dedication to storytelling. They recognize that every location has its own narrative power and work closely with clients to harness this potential. By integrating the unique characteristics of each setting into the fabric of the film, they help create stories that are authentic and deeply engaging.
“Locations aren’t just backdrops; they’re characters in their own right,” Lisjak explains. “We strive to ensure that each place adds depth and resonance to the narrative.”
This philosophy has led to successful collaborations with global brands and filmmakers. Their portfolio includes projects with industry giants such as Armani, Dior, Samsung, and the Michelin Guide. These partnerships showcase ORBIS Production’s ability to deliver high-quality content that resonates with both international audiences and critics alike.
One notable project involved a collaboration with CNN and Samsung, producing a documentary that explored environmental conservation efforts along Italy’s coastline. The production required sensitive handling of ecological sites and coordination with multiple environmental agencies—a challenge that ORBIS navigated with expertise.
“The project was complex, but ORBIS managed every aspect with precision,” recalls a producer from the documentary. “Their ability to handle logistical challenges without compromising the creative vision was impressive.”
In the realm of advertising, ORBIS has worked with leading agencies to create commercials that blend cinematic storytelling with brand messaging. Their understanding of both the artistic and commercial aspects of production makes them a valuable partner for agencies aiming to deliver impactful content.
“Advertising today is about more than just selling a product; it’s about telling a story that connects with audiences,” says Lusardi. “We help agencies craft narratives that are visually stunning and emotionally compelling.”
ORBIS Production’s commitment to innovation extends to embracing new technologies and production techniques. They are pioneers in utilizing virtual production methods, combining live-action footage with computer-generated environments. This technology allows for greater creative freedom and can significantly reduce production costs.
“Virtual production opens up possibilities that were previously unattainable,” says Lisjak. “It allows us to create immersive worlds while maintaining control over the production environment.”
Their dedication to fostering new talent and supporting the local film industry strengthens their position as industry leaders. By investing in education and training programs, they contribute to the growth of a skilled workforce that benefits both local and international productions.
“Developing local talent isn’t just good for the industry; it’s essential for its future,” Lusardi emphasizes. “We’re committed to nurturing the next generation of filmmakers and crew members.”
In an era where storytelling transcends borders and mediums, ORBIS Production offers filmmakers and agencies an opportunity to explore new horizons. Their blend of local expertise and global perspective creates a fertile ground for creativity, where stories are not just told but experienced.
“There’s a magic in Italy that’s hard to describe until you’ve experienced it,” reflects Lusardi. “Our goal is to capture that magic on film and share it with the world.”
About ORBIS Production
ORBIS Production is a premier film, TV, photo, and video production company based in Milan and Rome, with offices across Europe and the Middle East. They specialize in providing comprehensive production services, including location scouting, talent acquisition, equipment rental, and post-production facilities. Their team of seasoned professionals is dedicated to delivering exceptional quality and innovation in every project. Their ability to unlock exclusive locations, navigate complex logistics, and deliver world-class production services positions them as the go-to production service company in Italy for Hollywood and beyond.
In a globalized industry where audiences crave authenticity and originality, filming on location in Italy offers a competitive edge. ORBIS Production stands as a bridge between the rich tapestry of Italian locales and the creative ambitions of Hollywood and beyond. By choosing ORBIS, you are not merely hiring a Milan production company; you are engaging a partner committed to bringing your vision to life in the most compelling way possible. The landscapes of Italy await, rich with stories yet to be told. With ORBIS Production, the journey to uncovering these narratives promises to be as enriching as the stories themselves.
Published by: Nelly Chavez
