From 1990 to today, here are some of the most important events in our history.
Right after the fall of the communism, Romania found itself to be a virgin land for the global film industry.
Charlie Band, Debra Dion, Oana, and Vlad (behind) on the first soundstage
After the collapse of communism, there’s almost no infrastructure to support the film industry in Romania. Vlad Paunescu, a DOP and also a producer, organizes one of the first private international service production companies in the region.
First stake of the future sound stages, on an empty field near a forest and a river.
Castel Film Studios grows alongside the new trend in American cinema.
The low cost of shooting in Romania allowed filmmakers to build whole “worlds” for their projects and with them rewarding, new experiences.
More elaborate productions led to the development of workshops, equipment houses and other production facilities.
There’s an urgent need for two period, steam locomotives. Within a week they are found far North Romania, brought to set and readied for production.
An intense rhythm of 8 to 12 productions per year. The first super-production.
The first super-production at Castel Film Studios. After discussions with Castel Film’s team, Anthony Minghella and Miramax decide to shoot in Romania.
Starring Wesley Snipes, the first “action star” film shot in Romania, now a frequent location for action films starring Jean Claude Van Damme, Steven Seagal and others.
Castel Film’s back-lot is expanded to include a 3000 sqm construction of 12th century Milan.
The first dramatic TV serial produced by Castel Film.
After the global financial crisis that seriously affected the film industry, Castel Film experienced a renewal of interest in shooting in Romania.
A period with few productions in which the perseverance of the Castel Film team was tested.
Castel Film’s first entry into the popular super-hero genre, starring Nicolas Cage.
A Western town is built on our back-lot for the History Channel mini-series which becomes the most-watched basic cable program in American TV history, with more than 50 awards and nominations.
American producers such as Hallmark, Lifetime and Cinemax come to Castel Film to produce numerous TV projects. Castel Film becomes a direct supplier to Twentieth Century-Fox and Universal Studios.
The beginning of a new period thriving with major productions, production series and more attention given to the market in Romania.