Four Seasons for Production in the Adriatic with Entity Films
Over the last five years, Slovenia and Croatia have become go-to holiday destinations for many thanks to their Adriatic coastlines and multiple UNESCO world heritage sites. When it comes to production, Croatia lent multiple locations to become the setting for many of Game of Thrones’ episodes, proving that it’s a great location for top-of-the range shows, films, and high-end commercials too. On the whole, the Adriatic region is a little bit of a hidden production gem whether we’re talking about short or long-form work.
One of the benefits of shooting in the Adriatic is the diversity of landscapes, from sea and beaches to mountains and dense forests, all within relatively short distances of each other, especially when compared to other destinations. Today, LBB spoke to Jernej Krivic, founding partner and executive producer at Entity Films, part of the Compass Rose network, about what makes the region so special and why it’s the perfect destination to shoot any season the production requires at any time of the year.
Volkswagen - Macher 7
Shot across four regions - Slovenia, Croatia, Italy, Austria - the crew of 100 shot amid the height of covid restrictions with zero cases reported throughout.
The Adriatic is perfectly positioned between east and west, making it easily accessible from all sides. It has a storied history with the Venetians, Ottomans, and Austro-Hungarian leaving their mark on local architecture over the centuries. Besides historical locations that easily lend themselves to mediaeval settings, the region also boasts sleek and contemporary environments. Both Croatia and Slovenia have high-end modern architecture and Los Angeles-style luxurious villas, ready to stand in for a global metropolis or a swanky palace.
Jernej notes: “The Adriatic region is very popular with some, but also overlooked by others. With Croatia becoming a full member of the EU and the Schengen area at the beginning of 2023, all of the countries in the region (Austria, Italy and Slovenia) are essentially border free with no limitations for work and travel.” Thanks to Entity’s proximity to Italy and Austria, the company frequently works in those regions too, taking advantage of the short distance and ease of transport.
The beauty of nature that can be found in the region has to be seen to be believed. There are “High mountains with everlasting snow, beautiful winding roads with picturesque villages; forests, lakes and rivers. Big cities are here too, offering modern and old world architecture. The seaside is second to none with wonderful coastal roads, seaside towns that time forgot, plus thousands of islands with secluded beaches, cliffs and crystal clear waters,” says Jernej.
Kohler - God Of The Sea
Epic visuals, stunning locations, expert casting and fantastical make up, directed by Murray Butler.
It’s not all about the natural beauty of course and Jernej shares that the region is incredibly well-equipped and staffed, ready to take on any production. “We can support any kind of project, big or small, studio or locations. Lots of equipment rentals offer the latest gadgets and tools, from U-crane arms to Technocranes, Arri 35 LF and latest lenses.”
A Season for Every Production
The Adriatic has four distinct seasons, each one offering something special to potential productions. “Seasons are more pronounced in the north part of the Adriatic region, in the Alps and valleys below. At the seaside and close by, spring and summer last for most of the year, with a small winter time from November to March. Even then it’s possible to shoot evergreen trees and the sunny weather for an all year long summer feel,” explains Jernej.
eBay - Second Chance
The emotional spot was filmed across multiple locations in Slovenia.
Speaking to Jernej, it’s clear that he’s a real expert on the region, bringing with him 17 years of experience and a real passion for both the business side and the beauty of the regions he works in. “Each region has something different to offer. Slovenia is tiny yet has it all: lakes, mountains, the coast, rivers. In Croatia, you’ll find a thousand islands - perfect for any Mediterranean backdrop. Italy is just an hour’s drive away from the Entity office and we can be in Venice in two hours by car. Northern Austria and the Alps are nearby too.”
In the Adriatic, the green/summer shooting season starts at the end of March and lasts till mid October. In the coastal parts, that’s often prolonged due to the Mediterranean climate and vegetation. White or winter shooting season starts at the end of November and it lasts till end of March. Even though snow in April mostly disappears, it is still possible to find and shoot snow on glaciers. And that all important sunlight? It varies between 8 hours in the winter and up to 15 during the summer months.
Scam Spotter - Grandchild in Jail
The hilarious and action-packed spot was filmed in Croatia, a collaborative production between Entity and Wild Grift, directed by DJ Caruso.
The region can be further divided into three distinct climates, according to Jernej: “Coastal climate is typical for Italy, southern Slovenia and Croatia. Warmer by 5 to 10 degrees than other areas, it’s possible to shoot there without snow all year around. Continental climate is present in mid parts of countries, like in Ljubljana and Zagreb. This area has a mix of Mediterranean and Alpine climates. In northern Slovenia and Austria, the Alpine climate makes winter come earlier and last a bit longer, especially in mountains.”
Small but undeniably mighty, the Adriatic region offers a whole host of benefits in one package. Jernej’s favourite part? “You can shoot in the mountains in the morning and be at the seaside in mere 2 hours! Whatever you are looking for, the chances are that you can find it in the Adriatic.”
