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Hollywood blockbuster The Odyssey, other A-list films showcase Greece
The success of Hollywood blockbuster The Odyssey, along with several other A-list films featuring Greece and Greek locations, underscores how international moviemakers have taken a shine to the country. The caliber and scale of these projects show that Greece has established itself as a premier shooting location, thanks to a generous rebate program, ease of shooting year-round, and skilled local crews.
Since the introduction of the cash rebate program in 2017, around 90 foreign productions have been shot in Greece, injecting approximately a billion euros into the economy and supporting close to 3,000 skilled jobs. It is estimated that every euro invested in the program yields €4.2 in economic returns through increased value, job creation, and expanded economic activity.
The foreign productions give a boost to the local film industry by providing networking and skill-building opportunities to Greek crews and producers. And, at the same time, they are seen as an indirect means of promoting Greece as a tourism destination.
Apart from The Odyssey – which was partly shot in Greece and features Greece’s greatest mythological hero – recent foreign productions include David Chazelle’s yet untitled prison drama featuring Daniel Craig, as well as The Riders, a psychological thriller starring Brad Pitt.
And in January 2027, the European Film Awards will, for the first time, be held in Athens, a further indication that Greece has become a significant player in the international film industry.