Scorsese’s ‘What Happens At Night’ Signals a New Wave of European Film Production
Martin Scorsese is currently filming “What Happens At Night” in Prague, bringing Leonardo DiCaprio, Mads Mikkelsen, and Jennifer Lawrence to the Czech Republic. This project isn’t just a high-profile shoot; it’s indicative of a growing trend: Europe is becoming an increasingly attractive and viable alternative to traditional film hubs like Los Angeles and New York.
The Allure of Czech Incentives and Infrastructure
While specific details regarding financial incentives for “What Happens At Night” remain confidential, the Czech Republic has been actively boosting its appeal to filmmakers. In 2025, requests for film incentives reached 9.5 billion Czech crowns, a nearly 140% increase from the 4 billion crowns requested in 2024. The State Cinema Fund (SFA) recently pre-approved a 360 million crown incentive for the American series “The Age of Innocence,” currently filming in Prague and Liberec.
This surge in incentive requests highlights the Czech Republic’s growing infrastructure and skilled workforce. Productions are sometimes intentionally listing different project names to maintain secrecy, further demonstrating the competitive landscape.
Apple’s Expanding Role in Global Film Production
“What Happens At Night” is an Apple Original Film, produced in partnership with Studiocanal. Apple’s investment in original content is a key driver of this trend. The streaming giant, along with Netflix, Amazon, and others, are actively seeking cost-effective locations with strong production capabilities. This demand is fueling growth in European film industries.
The Story Behind the Film: A Psychological Drama
Based on Peter Cameron’s novel, “What Happens At Night” follows an American couple in an unnamed, snowy European city attempting to adopt a child. The narrative explores themes of doubt, identity, and the complexities of relationships, set against the backdrop of a city populated by enigmatic characters – an aging singer, a corrupt businessman, and a mysterious healer.
Why Prague? The Benefits of Filming in Central Europe
Prague offers a unique blend of architectural versatility, skilled crews, and competitive costs. The city can easily double for various European locations, providing filmmakers with creative flexibility. Mads Mikkelsen was recently seen in Czech cinemas in “The Last Viking,” demonstrating the local audience’s engagement with international productions.
Leonardo DiCaprio confirmed his involvement in the project during the Santa Barbara film festival, and was recently in London for the BAFTA awards.
The Future of European Film Production
The trend of increased film production in Europe is likely to continue. Several factors are at play:
- Growing Incentives: More countries are offering attractive tax breaks and financial incentives to attract filmmakers.
- Infrastructure Development: Studios and production facilities are expanding across Europe, providing state-of-the-art resources.
- Skilled Workforce: Europe boasts a highly skilled and experienced film workforce.
- Location Versatility: Europe offers a diverse range of landscapes and architectural styles.
Pro Tip:
When considering a European location, research the specific incentives offered by each country and region. These can significantly impact your production budget.
FAQ
Q: What incentives are available for filming in the Czech Republic?
A: The Czech Republic offers a cash rebate of up to 35% of eligible production costs.
Q: Is Prague an expensive city to film in?
A: Compared to major film hubs like Los Angeles or London, Prague offers a more cost-effective production environment.
Q: What other films have been shot in Prague?
A: Prague has hosted numerous international productions, including “Mission: Impossible,” “Casino Royale,” and “Amadeus.”
Q: What is Apple’s role in “What Happens At Night”?
A: The film is an Apple Original Film, demonstrating the company’s growing investment in original content.
Did you realize? The Czech Republic is often used as a double for Paris and other major European cities due to its architecture.
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