Interview with Gianluca Novel, Film Commissioner of Film Commission Friuli Venezia Giulia

The Friuli Venezia Giulia Film Commission serves as a vital hub for filmmakers seeking to explore Italy’s northeastern landscapes. With a focus on promoting local locations, the Friuli Venezia Giulia Film Commission offers tailored services and financial incentives that attract both national and international productions. Talking with one of its founders Gianluca Novel we delve into the core activities of the commission, its funding initiatives, and the significance of its presence at global film markets.

How the Friuli Venezia Giulia Film Commission Supports Film Projects

The Friuli Venezia Giulia Film Commission is dedicated to providing comprehensive assistance to film crews. By handling location scouting in-house, the commission ensures that productions gain access to an extensive database of over 90,000 images capturing the region’s diverse landscapes. This hands-on approach enables filmmakers to discover unique settings—from seaside views to mountain scenery—within a short distance, saving valuable production time. The commission’s long-standing expertise, spanning 26 years, reinforces its reputation as a reliable partner in the industry.

Funding and Incentives Offered by the Friuli Venezia Giulia Film Commission

Established in 2003, the Friuli Venezia Giulia Film Fund aims to support regional film projects financially. With an annual budget of approximately 2.5 million euros, the fund offers a 30% reimbursement on eligible expenses, with a maximum grant of 350,000 euros per project. Typically, the commission supports around five to six full-length films and a similar number of TV productions each year. Multiple semi-annual calls ensure that projects aligned with filming schedules can benefit from this scheme, encouraging a steady flow of creative works.

The Importance of Market Presence for the Friuli Venezia Giulia Film Commission

Participation in major film markets, such as the Cannes Film Festival market session, remains crucial for the Friuli Venezia Giulia Film Commission to promote its offerings. Attending these events allows the commission to showcase its capabilities, attract productions, and build valuable connections with international producers. The commission’s active engagement in markets has led to notable projects filming in the region, including recent Hollywood productions and popular Italian series shot in cities like Trieste. Such exposure underscores the region’s growing prominence as a versatile filming location.

In conclusion, the Friuli Venezia Giulia Film Commission plays a pivotal role in fostering regional film development. Its proactive strategies, from location services to financial incentives, and its commitment to marketing, position it as a key player in Italy’s expanding film industry. The work of the Friuli Venezia Giulia Film Commission exemplifies how dedicated regional support can unlock major opportunities for filmmakers worldwide.

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This interview was recorded during Cannes International Film Festival 2026, in partnership with the Italian Film Commissions Association and with the support of the Italian Trade Agency.