Location Spotlight: Gorgeous Georgia
Alihan received his BA from Bogazici University, the first US college founded abroad, majoring in international relations and sociology. Then he received his MBA from Boston College. Upon graduation he worked as a management consultant in US and Türkiye.
In 2003 he set up FPS Productions in Türkiye and returned to US in 2011 by setting up the branch office of FPS in the USA. FPS Azerbaijan was founded in 2016. FPS Georgia was founded in 2023. As a managing partner and EP of FPS, Alihan has produced TV commercials, TV series and feature films in the USA, Türkiye, the Middle East, and India. He won two Cannes Lions awards in film craft in 2015 and 2016 with TV commercials he produced in the US.
He has over twenty years of experience as a line producer/producer with international feature credits. Alihan speaks fluent Turkish and English, intermediate Spanish and German and will be obtaining his PhD in business administration in 2026.
LBB> Why Shoot Here? How would you pitch Georgia to any production companies looking to shoot in your region?
Alihan> Georgia is a very unique country in terms of location offerings. On the rural side it has beautiful black sea beaches side by side with amazing mountains and beautiful remote villages. On the urban side, we have beautiful European architecture and Soviet architecture which gives us the ability to cheat many country looks around the world. The country is small and transportation infrastructure is pretty good. There is a versatile talent pool. The crews are skilled and efficient. Set construction is pretty cheap and efficient.
LBB> What are the main qualities of your region?
Alihan> One can shoot any European city with affordable production budgets in Georgia. Blocking roads for car commercials are relatively easy compared to other major capitals in Europe.
LBB> What would you say are the top locations in Georgia?
Alihan> Beautiful urban locations both historical and areas with high rise buildings can be found in Georgia. Kazbegi mountain and environs are known worldwide for its beauty. Beaches and old town in Batumi are among very beautiful sights. European and Soviet architecture is available in the country.
LBB> What location would you say is most popular?
Alihan> Tbilisi urban locations, Batumi beaches and Kazbegi mountains are very popular and sought for.
LBB> Which location would you describe as the biggest attribute to local production?
Alihan> Tbilisi urban locations.
LBB> Explain the climate and the best/worst times to shoot in Georgia?
Alihan> Georgia has continental European climate, where the best months to shoot are between March and late November.
LBB> What specific work permits/Visas are required to shoot in Georgia?
Alihan> The entry visa policy of Georgia is relatively liberal, enabling citizens of 98 countries to enter, reside, work, and study in Georgia without the need to obtain either a visa or a residence permit.
LBB> How is the infrastructure in Georgia for supporting large productions?
Alihan> Infrastructure of roads and airports are pretty good. Equipment-wise, we have most of the high level gear. For the equipment which does not exist in the country, thanks to our Türkiye branch we can bring things in anytime it's needed in a seamless and fast way.
LBB> As an outsider, what would you say are the biggest Dos and Don’ts in the region?
Alihan> 20% of the countries’ land is still under Russian occupation. Therefore the biggest don’t is to having a pro-Russian attitude when engaging with the locals. Georgia is the first country in the world where wine was produced, so it is highly recommended to try the wines of Georgia while here.
LBB> What would be your number one tip to any coming to Georgia to shoot a campaign/film?
Alihan> The people of Georgia are very friendly and tourist-loving. So engaging with locals would be a very fun experience where one can learn many new things.
LBB> Where would you suggest a foreign production stay while they are in Georgia?
Alihan> We recommend staying in Tbilisi. We have deals with major chain hotels in the city. We recommend Marriott Tbilisi and Mercure Old City both in terms of location and production logistics.
LBB> Where are the best bars/restaurants? Any hidden gems you could suggest?
Alihan> Old Town and Mtatsminda has many local touristy bars and restaurants in mostly pedestrian areas.
Chugureti hosts Davit Agmashenebeli Avenue. It is the main road here and bustles with cafes and restaurants as well as wine cellars.
Vera and Vake are twin neighbourhoods which are also one of the greenest parts of town. Here you can find cosy cafes and restaurants.
Freedom Square offers easy access to attractions, cafes, restaurants, wine bars, and artisan beer houses.
Once you come you can be sure that we will take you to the most amazing places :)
