Interview with David Turpin, co-founder of Flip Flops Film

David Turpin, co-founder of Flip Flops Film, discusses the company’s recent participation in the Venice Production Bridge Location Market and its ambitions to promote its services to film crews aiming to film in the Canary Islands. The conversation highlights the advantages of the region’s generous tax incentives, the diverse landscapes across the islands, and the role of Flip Flops Film in supporting international productions. The company’s presence in Venice aims to attract more European filmmakers to explore the unique opportunities offered by the Canary Islands.

The Canary Islands as a Film-Friendly Hub and Flip Flops Film’s Role

Turpin emphasizes how the Canary Islands have become one of Europe’s most attractive destinations for foreign film productions, thanks to substantial tax rebates—up to 54% on investments exceeding one million euros. He explains that Flip Flops Film, founded just two years ago, is dedicated to facilitating international projects in the region, leveraging these incentives. The company operates across all seven islands, each offering distinct landscapes, from lush forests in Tenerife to desert-like terrains in Gran Canaria, making the islands versatile for various genres. Turpin notes that the islands’ ecosystems, including volcanoes and extensive coastlines, provide filmmakers with a wide array of visual options.

Supporting Productions with Local Infrastructure and Incentives

Turpin describes how the Canary Islands have recently invested in new studios and production facilities, including LED and construction studios in Gran Canaria, to support larger-scale projects. He explains that the local film commission manages the incentives, working closely with production service companies like Flip Flops Film to streamline the process. The company assists foreign producers in setting up local entities, managing permits, and ensuring that most production costs—around 70%—are eligible for incentives. This ecosystem of support, including location scouting and logistical assistance, makes the islands an increasingly appealing choice for international filmmakers seeking cost-effective yet diverse shooting location