Production Heaven: 8 Reasons Why Mexico is Today’s Destination of Choice
It’s impossible to hear ‘Mexico’ and not start visualising pristine beaches, a bustling street food scene, and artisans crafting local wonders. Mexico is of course all of that, but it’s also so, so much more. Spectrum Mexico, formerly Spectrum Films, is the newly launched service production company helmed by executive producer Concepcion 'Conchita' Taboada under Compass Rose’s best-in-class service production network and, together, they’re changing the perception of what the location has to offer for clients from all over the world. Hint: it’s a lot more than tropical paradise.
Mexico has a long and storied history of movie-making, which means that it’s brimming with professional on-the-ground filmmaking talent alongside the technology and infrastructure required for productions today. Conchita, a Mexico industry veteran, points out that “in Mexico you find a great balance of high-level crew who are energised and excited to be a part of foreign projects, and share the welcoming attitude and hospitality that Mexican culture is so famous for.”
Los Angeles (US) or Mexico
Conchita’s highly experienced team has already been busy with a myriad of projects, even though the company is only a few months old. Compass Rose and Spectrum Mexico know that the momentum is here to stay, as more and more clients turn to the country for their production needs.
“Mexico has been a top, go-to service production destination for quite some time, but the pandemic has especially accelerated the growth of the local service industry. The fact that Mexico is so close to the US - coupled with the barely-there time zone difference – provided a strong solution for production companies, agencies and clients who attended shoots remotely,” explains Pavla Burgetova Callegari, Compass Rose’s MD and executive producer.
Whatever type of production, big or small, Mexico is the new production heaven that ticks all the right boxes.
Morocco or Mexico
1. Inspiring and versatile locations
Mexico’s beauty is undeniable but it’s flexible too, with the ability to stand in for a number of international locations. From modern architecture that could be Los Angeles or Miami to the old-world glamour of European palaces and charming, winding streets, Mexico is a location chameleon. Though the country is geographically large, most of the shooting locations are conveniently close to one another - a bonus for busy production schedules - and Mexico City is the world’s largest metropolis, so a lot can be done without having to venture outside its bounds.
2. Favourable climate
Mexico’s all-year-round temperate climate is a welcome constant for all productions. April is the country’s hottest month (easy to avoid if needed), while the rest of the year offers sunshine and favourable weather conditions during Europe and USA’s winter months.
Budapest (Hungary) / Italy or Mexico
3. A fountain of qualified and experienced crews
Local film industry dates back to the late 19th century and the Golden Age of Mexican cinema dominated the Latin American film market. Today, those traditions are carried on by qualified, experienced crews with 85% of the production industry based in Mexico City. Besides their professionalism, the crews are also solution-oriented and ready to take on all production challenges.
4. Diverse, accomplished talent
Mexico, likewise, has a rich pool of talented and experienced actors and extras for productions to draw on. “Our talent offers that local ethnic diversity that is so important, but also we are so close to the US and Canada, it’s simple and inexpensive to travel in talent for specific roles,” explains Conchita.
American Southwest / California or Mexico
5. Established studios and stages
One of the misconceptions about Mexico is that it might not match high-quality facilities and equipment as some other production destinations. This couldn’t be further from the truth - the technology is world-class, on par with the studios of London and LA. There are also a variety of sound stages to service film shoots of every scope and scale.
6. Convenient and luxurious infrastructure
Mexico offers familiar and luxurious experiences for clients and agencies, complete with 5* hotels, incredible restaurants, theatres, museums, art galleries, club scene and other facilities. Walk through the centre of Mexico City and you’ll find it has the energy of any other global capital, with many noting that they’re able to have a ‘home away from home’ experience while on location here.
7. More value for budgets
As budgets continue to be stretched, a destination like Mexico provides a great solution. The costs are competitive - significantly lower than those for US, UK and some European countries - especially when compared against the high quality of skills and facilities offered by the location.
Greece or Mexico
“The beauty of filming in Mexico is definitely multi-fold,” says Amy Kaemon, Compass Rose’s executive producer for North America, who adds, “First off, it’s just an incredible, amazing place to be. It seems like every travel, food and wine magazine I open features some recent profile on Mexico, with an emphasis on the magic of Mexico City. And of course, the overall filming costs are far less expensive than those in the US and UK. The pool of local crew is super experienced and great to work with, and the production standard is so high. Most of the specialty equipment and crew you could need is available locally, and in the rare cases it isn’t - Los Angeles is less than a four hour flight away.”
8. An authentic experience
While Mexico can stand in for a variety of international locations, only Mexico can give its true flavour to a production looking to authentically convey its energy and culture on screen. Countless people flock to the country annually, on business and pleasure, to experience all the country and the people have to offer, returning often for the culture, hospitality and professionalism they encounter during their time there.
As a service production destination, Mexico offers the film community a wealth of experienced talent, inspiring locations, solid infrastructure and undeniable convenience. This inviting country is appealing for anyone looking for a one-stop-shop that provides everything a production might need, no matter the budget.
