The Caucasus nation of Georgia is positioning itself as a rising star in the global film industry, aspiring to become the “Hollywood of the Caucasus.” With its diverse landscapes, including medieval churches, stunning mountains, and vibrant urban settings, Georgia has already attracted a range of international productions. Recent films such as the American blockbuster F9 and the Apple TV series Drops of God showcase the country’s cinematic potential, drawing attention to its unique locations and rich cultural backdrop.
Georgia’s capital, Tbilisi, has become a popular filming destination, featuring prominently in high-octane scenes, such as the car chase in F9, where American muscle cars sped past iconic landmarks like the opera house and Freedom Square. The country is not only aiming to attract more international filmmakers but also seeks to revitalize its own historical filmmaking legacy, which thrived during the Soviet era with the renowned Georgian Film Studio.
Government Initiatives and Challenges
Under the leadership of Irakli Kobakhidze, who became Prime Minister in February 2024, Georgia’s government has launched initiatives to stimulate the film industry. Tatia Bidzinashvili, director of Film in Georgia, emphasizes that the country provides competitive financial incentives, including a cash rebate of up to 25 percent on qualified production costs. Furthermore, Georgia boasts an established ecosystem of skilled crews and a centralized service for location scouting and permits, making it easier for filmmakers to navigate the logistics of shooting.
Yet, despite these advantages, political instability poses a significant challenge. Critics and human rights advocates have raised concerns about the government’s increasing authoritarianism and suppression of dissent. According to Reporters Without Borders, Georgia ranks 114 out of 180 in its 2025 World Press Freedom Index. Anna Khazaradze, co-founder of 1991 Productions, notes the difficult reality for filmmakers in a country where friends may face arrest for their views.
Bidzinashvili counters this narrative by highlighting the government’s willingness to accommodate productions. She recalls how F9 was allowed to shut down Rustaveli Avenue for nearly a week to facilitate filming, a gesture comparable to shutting down Paris’s Champs-Élysées.
Location Diversity and International Appeal
Georgia’s geographical diversity enhances its appeal as a filming location. Within a few hours’ drive, productions can access snowy mountains, sunny beaches, and lush forests. Irakli Makatsaria, a Tbilisi-based producer, mentions that Georgia attracts filmmakers seeking locations that can double for other countries. For instance, the Indian series Special Ops filmed near the border with Abkhazia, using the stunning landscape for its narrative backdrop.
Despite ongoing political protests, foreign productions have continued to operate. The American thriller Hotel Tehran, featuring Liam Neeson, maintained its filming schedule in Tbilisi, with local authorities ensuring a secure environment. Bidzinashvili argues that the resilience of Georgian society allows filmmaking to thrive, even amid challenges.
Georgia’s complicated relationship with Russia adds another layer of complexity to its film ambitions. The proximity to Russia, which invaded Georgia in 2008 and maintains military control over breakaway regions, raises concerns for some producers. Nonetheless, Georgia continues to be a setting for significant projects, such as the upcoming film Young Stalin, which explores the early years of the infamous leader, born in Gori, Georgia.
The country has also hosted productions addressing sensitive social issues, despite facing significant hurdles. The film Crossing, which explores the life of a retired schoolteacher searching for her transgender niece, faced distribution challenges domestically due to anti-LGBT sentiments. Khazaradze notes that while international festivals have celebrated the film, finding local distributors remains difficult.
As Georgia works to establish itself as a premier filming location, local companies like 20 Steps Production and Industria Films provide comprehensive production services. However, the search for large soundstages can be a challenge, indicating areas for further development in the industry.
The hospitality and rich culinary traditions of Georgia further enhance its allure. Producers and directors are often captivated by the warmth of Georgian culture and the local cuisine, which includes renowned dishes like khinkali and khachapuri. Makatsaria emphasizes that the cultural experience is as important as the locations, stating, “They say in Georgia, guests are a gift from God.”
As Georgia continues to navigate its political landscape while promoting its cinematic potential, the country’s ambition to become the film hub of the Caucasus remains a compelling narrative, drawing filmmakers from around the globe.