Cinecittà Studios in Rome, Italy, is experiencing a revival reminiscent of the 1950s and 1960s, with all soundstages now fully occupied. The studio was historically known as “Hollywood on the Tiber” and was the location for the production of many classic films such as “Ben Hur,” “Quo Vadis,” and “Roman Holiday.” In the past two years, Cinecittà’s chief executive Nicola Maccanico has brought the studio to full occupancy by modernizing the facilities and promoting its highly skilled artisans. The studio has also benefitted from Italy’s 40 percent tax rebate on international film production costs. To stay competitive with similar studios like Studio Babelsberg and Pinewood Studios, Cinecittà plans to continually invest in itself and grow. With the support of European Union pandemic recovery funds, the studio is set for expansion, with one soundstage already outfitted with a virtual LED wall technology that vastly improves the studio’s capacity for sustainable filmmaking. The studio also maintains a staff of artisans, including carpenters, welders, and set painters. A deal with a state-controlled group is also underway to buy 75-acres of land near the studio for further development.
