The Rise of “Set-Jetting” 2.0: How ‘The Walking Dead’ Filming in Spain Signals a New Era for Global Production
The global entertainment industry is no stranger to location shooting, but a fascinating shift is underway. Recent news that AMC’s The Walking Dead: Daryl Dixon – The Book of Carol is extensively filming its third season across Spain – from the stark landscapes of Zaragoza to the coastal regions of Catalonia – isn’t just about finding the right post-apocalyptic backdrop. It’s a bellwether for a new wave of international production driven by cost-effectiveness, diverse scenery, and increasingly sophisticated local film infrastructure. This isn’t simply about saving money; it’s about unlocking creative potential and tapping into a global talent pool, a trend we’re calling “Set-Jetting 2.0.”
Spain’s Ascent as a Production Hub: Beyond Cost Savings
For years, Spain has been quietly building its capabilities as a film and television production center. While lower costs compared to traditional hubs like the US and UK are certainly a draw – offering tax incentives of up to 30% for international productions – the country offers far more. The diverse geography, ranging from deserts and mountains to beaches and historic cities like Belchite (featured in the upcoming season), provides filmmakers with a remarkable range of settings without the logistical headaches of constantly relocating across continents. The addition of established Spanish actors like Óscar Jaenada, Eduardo Noriega, and Greta Fernández to the Walking Dead cast further demonstrates the growing depth of local talent.
Set-jetting, the practice of tourism inspired by film and television locations, is also a significant factor. Productions like Game of Thrones in Croatia and The Lord of the Rings in New Zealand demonstrated the economic benefits of showcasing a country’s beauty to a global audience. Spain is actively leveraging this potential, and the increased visibility from a popular franchise like The Walking Dead will undoubtedly boost tourism to filming locations.
The “Daryl Dixon” Effect: A Case Study in Global Production Trends
The decision to film Daryl Dixon – The Book of Carol extensively in Spain isn’t isolated. HBO’s House of the Dragon utilized locations across the UK and Spain, and Netflix continues to invest heavily in Spanish-language productions. This trend is fueled by several converging factors:
- Increased Streaming Demand: The explosion of streaming services has created an insatiable demand for content, requiring studios to find efficient and scalable production solutions.
- Tax Incentives & Government Support: Countries are actively competing to attract film and television production through attractive tax breaks and streamlined permitting processes.
- Technological Advancements: Improvements in digital filmmaking technology and remote collaboration tools make it easier to manage productions across borders.
- Global Talent Networks: The rise of international co-productions and the increasing mobility of film crews have created a more interconnected global talent pool.
“Did you know?” Spain’s film industry contributed over €6.5 billion to the country’s GDP in 2023, according to a recent report by the Spanish Film Academy.
Beyond Spain: Emerging Production Hotspots
While Spain is currently enjoying a surge in popularity, other countries are also vying for a piece of the global production pie. Portugal, Greece, Morocco, and even Eastern European nations like Bulgaria and Romania are offering competitive incentives and skilled crews. The key differentiator will be the ability to build a sustainable ecosystem that supports long-term production, including:
Investing in Infrastructure
This includes sound stages, post-production facilities, and specialized equipment rentals. Spain’s recent investments in these areas have been crucial to its success.
Developing Local Talent
Nurturing a skilled workforce – from camera operators and lighting technicians to set designers and visual effects artists – is essential for attracting and retaining productions.
Streamlining Bureaucracy
Reducing red tape and simplifying permitting processes can significantly reduce production costs and timelines.
The Future of Production: A More Decentralized Landscape
The era of Hollywood dominance is slowly giving way to a more decentralized and collaborative global production landscape. Studios are increasingly willing to look beyond traditional hubs to find the best combination of cost, creativity, and logistical feasibility. This shift has significant implications for the industry:
“Expert Insight:” “We’re seeing a fundamental change in how content is made,” says film industry analyst Sarah Chen. “The old model of centralized production is becoming unsustainable. Studios need to be more agile and adaptable, and that means embracing global production opportunities.”
Pro Tip: For filmmakers considering international locations, thorough research into local incentives, regulations, and infrastructure is crucial. Engaging with local production service companies can provide valuable insights and support.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Will this trend lead to a decline in production in the US and UK?
A: Not necessarily. The US and UK will likely remain major production centers, but their market share will likely decrease as other countries become more competitive.
Q: What are the biggest challenges of international production?
A: Logistics, language barriers, cultural differences, and navigating local regulations can all present challenges. Careful planning and collaboration with local partners are essential.
Q: How can countries attract more film and television production?
A: Offering attractive tax incentives, investing in infrastructure, developing local talent, and streamlining bureaucracy are all key strategies.
Q: What impact will this have on the types of stories being told?
A: Increased international production will likely lead to more diverse and culturally nuanced storytelling, reflecting a wider range of perspectives and experiences.
As The Walking Dead: Daryl Dixon – The Book of Carol prepares to unleash its Spanish-filmed adventures on audiences in autumn 2025, it’s clear that this is more than just a change of scenery. It’s a sign of a fundamental shift in the global entertainment industry, one that promises to reshape the landscape of film and television production for years to come. What new locations will become the next production hotspots? Only time will tell, but the future of filmmaking is undoubtedly global.
Explore more insights on international film production incentives in our comprehensive guide.
