Battles, History & Intrigue: Rise of the Raven TV Production Unveiled

European powerhouse Beta Film divulged the first sneak-peak this week (exclusively for Variety) of a new 10-part TV series touted as “One of the most epic European TV productions of all time.”

Rise of the Raven. Picture via Imdb

In the landscape of European television, where we’re increasingly seeing iterations of historical drama for our viewing pleasure, we’re about to see something a little different. Rise of the Raven, a mammoth project from Hungarian-born Canadian producer Robert Lantos (Sunshine, The Sweet Hereafter, Barney’s Version, Eastern Promises, Crimes of the Future) has concluded photography and is now in advanced editing, as reported by Variety. 

At its core, this is the story of army commander Janos Hunyadi, legendary in Hungary, although not a house-hold name outside Central Europe. Hunyadi faced an impossibe mission at the Battle of Belgrade in 1456 when he went up against the might of the Ottoman army with half as many troops–some of whom were simple farm labourers pitifully underequipped for combat. It’s a classic underdog tale where Hunyadi and his army emerged victorious against all odds, stopping the Ottoman expansion into Europe for several decades at least–until 1526 when 150 years of Ottoman occupation of Hungary began.

Incidentally, if you’ve wondered why church bells ring at midday throughout Europe, this is why. Upon victory, Pope Callixtus III ordered that the bells should toll every day in celebration and the habit kind of stuck.

Rise of the Raven. Picture via Imdb

But apart from this monumental and bloody battle, Hunyadi’s life reads much like… well, a TV series. Which is lucky, because now it is one! Adapted from Bán Mór’s bestselling novels, the show will delve into the scandals and political intrigue surrounding Hunyadi’s life. But there’ll also be a welcome female perspective thanks to his loyal wife, Elizabeth Szilágyi, and his first love turned Sultan’s concubine, Mara Brankovic. Frankly, we cannot wait to see how this plays out.

Variety reports: “‘Rise of the Raven’ delivers on its promises – a highly entertaining, emotional, and powerful historical saga of exceptional production value,” said Koby Gal Raday, Beta Film’s Chief Content Officer. He added: “With a strong and unique emphasis on female perspectives, the series offers captivating storylines that are highly relevant to today’s audience. Supported by a stellar creative team and an excellent international cast, we firmly believe in its significant global potential.”

The list of talent both infront of and behind the camera that has been gathered for this series is formidable. Directors of the series include Austrian Oscar-nominated and Emmy-winning Robert Dornhelm as well as Hungarian directors Orsi Nagypal (The Deal, The Outpost) and Attila Szasz (Tall Tales, Eternal Winter). 

The series’ showrunner is Balazs Lengyel (HBO’s Golden Life). Other writers of the series are George Mihalka, Balazs Lovas, Zsófia Ruttkay, Attila Veres and Ban Mor, (author of the novels on which the series is based).

Sources & further reading:

https://variety.com/2024/tv/global/robert-lantos-beta-film-janos-hunyadi-1235923646/

https://www.imdb.com/title/tt15373664/

Flatpack Films has years of experience servicing international brands, agencies, and production companies. Filming in Hungary is easy when relying on their knowledge of the market and ability to solve complex needs. They bring the best that Hungary has to offer in terms of unique locations, exceptionally skilled crews, top-of-the-line equipment and technical solutions. Backed by an impeccable track record, Flatpack Films has worked with world-class clients including Samsung, Samsonite, Toyota, Braun, Chivas Regal and many more.

Get in touch and learn more about Budapest film locations, Hungarian film incentives, film tax credits in Hungary and how Flatpack Films can bring your project to life through a highly bespoke approach.

Tapping into Local Acting Talent in Budapest, Hungary

Hungary is well-known as being one of the busiest filming hubs in Europe. But how has this impacted actors residing in the country? Are they benefiting from an upsurge in roles available now that Hungary is fast becoming the Hollywood of the East?

Increasing numbers of international production companies are coming to the country to film commercials, films or TV series and 2024 is gearing up to be a bumper year. This is especially welcome news in the aftermath of the writers and SAG-AFTRA strikes which put a stop to many productions last year.

Considering the uptake in international productions filming in Hungary, it seems logical that local creative talent should also be able to take advantage of the opportunities that offers.

Actors: an untapped resource

Beyond locations, crew and set construction, Hungary supplies a diverse pool of extras to fill roles requiring little or no dialogue for film and audiovisual projects .  

But there’s also a large community of experienced actors on hand locally. These are creatives who could easily step into meatier roles requiring professional acting experience. But international producers who come here to film have not yet fully utilized local acting talent, despite the fact that many have proficiency in multiple languages.

The ORIGO Talent Network

There are several agencies operating in Hungary currently that keep databases on available actors and extras. Representation or “agents” for talent is not common practice in the country, meaning actors need to ensure they are registered with all the major casting agencies.

So, in a move to better showcase the acting talent on tap in Hungary, Origo Studios (one of the major studios offering soundstages and production facilities in Budapest) have rolled out a centralized platform which allows international producers find and connect with local actors at the click of a button.

Origo Studios launched the Talent Network last week at an event attended by numerous well-known actors in the region. This free service aims to connect Hungary’s acting talent (Hungarian and international) directly with production companies.

The unique tool will make it easier to find actors located in Hungary who speak the required language at a proficient level. Other search filters can also be applied according to criteria such as gender, age and other skills.

As quoted by the Budapest Reporter, Márta Fekszi (CEO of ORIGO Studios) highlighted the mission behind the initiative, stating, "We want to see more Hungarian actors and actresses perform in the biggest Hollywood productions." The goal is to not only attract international projects to Hungary but to also ensure that local actors have the chance to play a significant role in them.

 A boost for the environment, the bottomline, and creatives

Utilizing local talent has several benefits, not least for reasons of sustainability–flying less cast members internationally has the advantage of decreasing the productions’ overall carbon footprint.

It also makes sense financially. International productions enjoy a 30% tax rebate (among other perks) when they make use of Hungarian talent.

The step will undoubtedly also boost the overall recruitment of actors who live locally. Hungarian actors such as Dorka Gryllus, Júlia Ubrankovics, and Máté Haumann have already made significant contributions to the global film and TV industry–Haumann played roles in Oppenheimer, The Witcher and Colette.

One professionally trained actor we spoke to, a Canadian-Hungarian resident in Hungary since 2015, thinks Origo’s initiative could have a positive impact.  

Christine Grace Szarko, who has worked extensively in Hungary as an actor (Death of a Unicorn, Shadow & Bone) and as a dialect and dialogue coach (Halo and Band of Spies), speaks in glowing terms about the professionalism of local cast and crew she has encountered on set.

But Szarko would also like to see more opportunities for local casting in the international film productions that come to the coutry.

With initiatives such as Origo’s, hopefully talent in Hungary will have more opportunities made available to them to shine on a global scale.

Sources & further reading:

https://origotalent.com

https://www.budapestreporter.com/origo-studios-launches-innovative-talent-network-to-boost-hungarian-film-industry/

Flatpack Films has years of experience servicing international brands, agencies, and production companies. Filming in Hungary is easy when relying on their knowledge of the market and ability to solve complex needs. They bring the best that Hungary has to offer in terms of unique locations, exceptionally skilled crews, top-of-the-line equipment and technical solutions. Backed by an impeccable track record, Flatpack Films has worked with world-class clients including Samsung, Samsonite, Toyota, Braun, Chivas Regal and many more.

Get in touch and learn more about Budapest film locations, Hungarian film incentives, film tax credits in Hungary and how Flatpack Films can bring your project to life through a highly bespoke approach.

Filming in Hungary: The Royal Castle of Gödöllõ

In the third instalment of our series featuring castles in Hungary, we’re taking an easy 45-minute drive from the capital on the M3 highway to visit a place that was favoured by Empress Elisabeth–affectionately known as Sisi.

Royal Palace of Gödöllő. Photo from Wikipedia.

We like to take you places in this blog, to shed some light on why Hungary has become such a popular filming destination for international productions and highlight different aspects of the country. This time we’re visiting a right royal destination. 

Our other motivation? We’re in the middle of a Sisi-fest–there are currently two TV series and a film running on various streaming platforms featuring The Empress of Ausrtria. That’s prompted us to take a look at the Royal Palace of Gödöllő, one-time playground of the queen.

This is the largest baroque castle in Hungary, built in the mid 18th century by Count Antal Grassalkovich. Constructed in a double U-shape and surrounded by a huge park, the building itself underwent expansion and several modifications which led to it containing, besides its residential wings, a church, a theatre, a riding-hall, a hothouse and an orangery. Clearly, any castle worth its salt is not complete unless you have a place to grow fruit trees indoors.

Once the male lineage of the Grassalkovich family died out, the palace was eventually bought by the Hungarian state and then given as a coronation present in 1867 to the royal couple, Emperor Franz Joseph and his bride, Elisabeth. The significance of this gesture was that the palace became not only the official Hungarian residence of the Emperor (who had also become King of Hungary), it also represented Hungary getting its independent statehood back with the establishment of the Austrian-Hungarian empire.    

The royal family spent several months of the year in Gödöllő. The castle became a favourite spot for Empress Sisi as it offered a welcome respite from the confines of the Viennese court; she even managed to learn fluent Hungarian!

The Royal Family in Gödöllő. Lithograph by Vinzenz Katzler - Hungarian Historical Picture Gallery.

A couple of World Wars and a stint as an elderly persons’ home during communism took their toll, but the castle was eventually restored to its former glory as an historical and tourist landmark. Visitors can glimpse a bit of history through its meticulously reconstructed interiors.

One of the most impressive features of the castle museum is the Empress Elisabeth Exhibition which has been noted for its accuracy and attention to detail.

Sisi’s quarters in Gödöllő which feature the colour of her favourite flower: violets.

The palace is yet another location in central Europe where filmmakers can make great use of grand architectural style and historic locations. Make period movie magic by shooting in Hungary!

Flatpack Films has years of experience servicing international brands, agencies, and production companies. Filming in Hungary is easy when relying on their knowledge of the market and ability to solve complex needs. They bring the best that Hungary has to offer in terms of unique locations, exceptionally skilled crews, top-of-the-line equipment and technical solutions. Backed by an impeccable track record, Flatpack Films has worked with world-class clients including Samsung, Samsonite, Toyota, Braun, Chivas Regal and many more.

Get in touch and learn more about Budapest film locations, Hungarian film incentives, film tax credits in Hungary and how Flatpack Films can bring your project to life through a highly bespoke approach.

Sources:

 https://kiralyikastely.hu/erzsebet-kiralyne-es-godollo-kapcsolata.html

 https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Royal_Palace_of_Gödöllő

New Horizons for Filming in Hungary: NFI Studios expansion

Budapest, Hungary. A place already much favoured by international film and TV makers for its ability to seemingly mimic just about any other city on the planet. And beyond.

Sound stages in this central European country have even made us believe people were colonizing Mars; The Martian (2015) was filmed at Korda studios, which at the time had one of the largest sound studios in the world.   

To meet the increasing demand from international producers wanting to film in Hungary, NFI studios are currently significantly expanding their capacity. With support from the National Film Institute (NFI), the studio is set to grow to 12,670 square meters and will cater to both international and domestic productions.

Aerial shot of NFI Studios showing expansion in yellow. Source: NFI.

NFI is not messing around. It hopes to build on an already stellar reputation Hungary has built as the second biggest international production hub in Europe after London.

Ildikó Kovács, head of NFI Studios, announced that the expansion would enable the studio to attract and host large-scale productions while maintaining world-class facilities for high-end TV and film projects. The new sound stages are designed to be versatile. Not only able to accommodate various productions, they will be strategically located near backlot sets and support facilities, including on-site set construction services, special effects (SFX), and transportation.

As part of the expansion, four new 2,500-square-meter sound stages will be constructed, bringing the total studio capacity to 12,670 square meters. These stages can be used individually or in pairs of 4,945 square meters, separated by a mobile 15-meter high soundproofed wall.

NFI’s ambitious project represents Hungary's most extensive state-funded film studio development to date. Located on a 23-hectare plot in Fót, just outside the Hungarian capital, the complex has provided a diverse backdrop of locations over the years, from medieval European towns to the wild west of the U.S. and everything in between.

Source: NFI.

The comprehensive collection of sets, props, wardrobe items and accessories cover a wide range of historical eras and sound positively mouth-watering to a humble writer such as myself; the narrative possibilities seem endless!

Did anyone say armoury? There’s a vast catalogue of weapons available from the Middle Ages to the 1960s, including one of central Europe's largest inventories of First and Second World War machine guns and revolvers.

Not only that, the studio houses continental Europe’s largest outdoor water tank which was used in Warner Bros' Blade Runner 2049.

If we could see Ryan Gosling doing a song and dance number under water, that would really be something.

With this expanded facility complementing an already impressive number of other studio options available in or near Budapest, 30% tax rebate, diverse landscapes and skilled crews, Hungary will no doubt continue to attract film makers looking to get more bang for their buck.

Source:

https://www.screendaily.com/screen-network/first-look-how-hungary-is-assuring-its-future-with-big-studio-expansion/5186781.article

Flatpack Films has years of experience servicing international brands, agencies, and production companies. Filming in Hungary is easy when relying on their knowledge of the market and ability to solve complex needs. They bring the best that Hungary has to offer in terms of unique locations, exceptionally skilled crews, top-of-the-line equipment and technical solutions. Backed by an impeccable track record, Flatpack Films has worked with world-class clients including Samsung, Samsonite, Toyota, Braun, Chivas Regal and many more.

Get in touch and learn more about Budapest film locations, Hungarian film incentives, film tax credits in Hungary and how Flatpack Films can bring your project to life through a highly bespoke approach.

Red Hot Art from Noemi Devil’s Exhibition at The Red Door in Budapest

Departing from our usual theme of film locations or shooting movies and TV series in Hungary, we took refuge from a cold snap in January 2024 and headed to The Red Door. It’s a gallery in the thick of the now decidedly hip and cool 8th district of downtown Budapest.

Suffice to say, things got a bit hot under the collar.        

If film and TV are siblings born of a dynamic medium, art is their very bohemian first cousin. Paintings are static, sure, but they also have the potential to deliver a hefty impact by conveying messages and meaning. Just like film, they do this through visual language. Form, colour and composition combine to create an image that grabs our attention and sends our imagination on a journey of discovery.

Not sure what to expect from this exhibition of new works from Hungarian artist Noemi Devil, I took one of my more cultured friends, Kinga, who’s in the know regarding contemporary art in Central Europe. She also just so happens to be a big fan of Devil.

Fruits 2023, Noemi Devil

Noemi Devil: Melding the Past and the Present

Noemi Devil is a Hungarian artist who studied Fine Arts, Graphic Art and Architecture at various universities in Vienna. This would have crushed a lessor individual, but Devil’s approach and work ethic have clearly been positively influenced by the experience. The three disciplines, as well as her own artistic practice, form the four pillars that underpin her work.

Dividing her time between Vienna and Budapest, Devil creates her art within thematic cycles that range from 12 to 20 pictures. Her work explores modern issues such as pollution, genetic engineering, our ageing society, and excessive consumption.

Devil’s also dabbled in time travel.

In past paintings, she’s juxtaposed period subjects with modern elements to create work that feels dynamic and cinematic. Look at the narrative hooks Devil’s incorporated into the piece below:

Mc Papageno, Noemi Devil.

This particular exhibition at The Red Door was dominated by a series of vibrant paintings portraying still life of luscious flowers and fanciful fruits. These pictures were like a hallucinogen, evoking an intricate, fantastical world of erotic looking produce.

The overall effect was hypnotic; Alice in Wonderland meets a debauched Garden of Eden.

 What a trip.

Fruits 2023, Noemi Devil

Check out more of Noemi’s work here: www.noemidevil.com

Flatpack Films has years of experience servicing international brands, agencies, and production companies. Filming in Hungary is easy when relying on their knowledge of the market and ability to solve complex needs. They bring the best that Hungary has to offer in terms of unique locations, exceptionally skilled crews, top-of-the-line equipment and technical solutions. Backed by an impeccable track record, Flatpack Films has worked with world-class clients including Samsung, Samsonite, Toyota, Braun, Chivas Regal and many more.

Get in touch and learn more about Budapest film locations, Hungarian film incentives, film tax credits in Hungary and how Flatpack Films can bring your project to life through a highly bespoke approach.

Lake Balaton, Hungary: One of the World’s Top Filming Locations You’ve Never Heard of

We’re looking at the curious case of Lake Balaton, sitting at number 14 of the world’s most popular movie locations for 2022. Surprising, considering it’s a place that is not very well known outside of central Europe.  

The ranking was compiled by Giggster, a company that secures filming locations for feature films. It seems they simply added up the number of major movies that were shot in certain locations and then ranked the ones used most frequently around the world.  

Lake Balaton. Picture from Wikipedia.

Lake Balaton sits between Gamla Stan in Sweden and Senaatintori in Finland (on the list, that is) with a total of 36 movies filmed there last year. It even outranks St. Mark’s Square in Venice. According to Imdb, 99 films have been shot at the lake over the last hundred years.

A great oblong shaped body of water with a surface area of 600 km2, a maximum length of 78 km and maximum width of 14 km, it’s not called the Hungarian sea for nothing. Lake Balaton is the largest freshwater lake in central Europe and is a major holiday destination in Hungary. The lake also attracts many tourists from surrounding countries. In fact, visitors have been enjoying the delights of the lake for millennia; well-to do Romans used to holiday in the area two-thousand years ago.

Beach Bum Lifestyle

Despite being a landlocked country in central Europe, there’s still plenty of scope at Balaton for sunset cocktails by the shore, sandy beaches, yachts, windsurfing and wake boarding. If you’re Hungarian, it’s considered de rigueur to spend at least some of your summer here. And since this is Europe, a lot of people, especially families, will spend a big chunk of August by the lake.

The southern shore of Balaton tends to be more brash; it’s the Ibiza, if you like, to the northern shore’s Mallorca. There are markets, malls and a lively nightlife scene that goes hand-in-hand with a beach-style holiday. Balaton Sound, which touts itself as Europe’s biggest electronic beach festival, also takes place in a town on the southern shore.

Balaton Sound Music Festival. Picture via Tripadvisor.

Provence of the East

The towns and villages of the north shore offer, overall, a more chill atmosphere. Here the terrain is dominated by forests, hills and valleys, and dotted with numerous vineyards thanks to the volcanic soil.

It’s worth noting that Lake Balaton’s microclimate is Mediterranean. Travelling inland away from the northern shore through the gently rolling hills reveals a whole different side to the lake. It’s like taking a trip through Provence, with cute villages, artisan restaurants, lavender fields and small family-run farms selling organic produce such as honey and cheese.

The towns of the Káli valley in particular, the village abodes of which have been lovingly restored, are a cinematographer’s dream. The artistic vibe of the area is well-utilized by several annual cultural festivals, the most well-known being the annual Valley of the Arts festival.

There’s an old-world, gentry feel to Balatonfüred, the oldest (and possibly prettiest) resort town on the lake. It’s a spa town and popular yachting destination which features several listed buildings from the 18th and 19th centuries.

Balatonfüred. Picture via www.csodalatosbalaton.hu.

Natural wonders

But Balaton is not just about beach life, art, and wine culture. There are so many scenic spots worth visiting: Roman ruins, remnants of monasteries and castles, cave lakes (reminiscent of the Blue Lagoon in Capri) and vast arboretums.

Then there are the surprisingly eerie yet beautiful sights such as huge basalt columns and inselbergs–isolated mountains of rock that jut dramatically out of the ground–formed with the help of extinct volcanoes. The Stone Sea, an area dominated by huge rock formations, is also a feature of this area that encompasses the Balaton Uplands National Park.

Hegyestū. Picture via Wikipedia.

Flatpack Films has years of experience servicing international brands, agencies, and production companies. Filming in Hungary is easy when relying on their knowledge of the market and ability to solve complex needs. They bring the best that Hungary has to offer in terms of unique locations, exceptionally skilled crews, top-of-the-line equipment and technical solutions. Backed by an impeccable track record, Flatpack Films has worked with world-class clients including Samsung, Samsonite, Toyota, Braun, Chivas Regal and many more.

Get in touch and learn more about Budapest film locations, Hungarian film incentives, film tax credits in Hungary and how Flatpack Films can bring your project to life through a highly bespoke approach.

Sources & further reading:

https://giggster.com/blog/movie-location-report/

https://m.imdb.com/search/title/?locations=lake%20balaton

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lake_Balaton

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Balatonfüred

Budapest Film Location: Castles in Hungary Part 2

This is part two of our homage to popular period TV series, such as Downtown Abbey, Bridgerton and The Buccaneers, where we highlight one of the many amazing castles and manor-style dwellings of Central Europe.

We wanted to bring you something extra special this week–it’s nearly Christmas, after all! An inspiring location where truly magical things could happen: Brunszvik Castle.

Brunszvik Castle. Photo via www.programturizmus.hu

There is something distinctly English about this place, with its Tudoresque architecture, stunning white walls, towers, and turrets, not to mention the sprawling gardens. This could be Hungary’s answer to Hogwarts. It’s not hard to imagine students honing their magic skills and swishing about the place in black capes.

Arguably, this gothic building is one of the most beautiful castles in Hungary. It’s a place one could imagine seeing a Mr. Darcy-like figure interrupted in his swim by an ingénue looking for love.

Brunszvik Castle is just half an hour from bustling Budapest but light years away in terms of atmosphere. Although on the surface there’s a romanticism befitting Jane Austen, looking more deeply into the history of the castle reveals a tragic love story more like a Brontë sisters novel.

At the beginning of the nineteenth century, back when the castle was still owned by the music loving Brunszvik family, Beethoven was a regular visitor. He had been asked to tutor two of the family’s daughters, Josephine and Therese, in the piano. Beethoven composed many of his pieces while staying here, including the Appassionata sonata. His piano and some of his personal correspondence with the Brunszvik family are on show inside the castle’s museum.

It seems Beethoven fell hard for Josephine and there are indications (in the letters) that his feelings were reciprocated. Sadly, the aristocratic family had no wish for Josephine to marry a ‘commoner’. Josephine was instead married off to someone far more acceptable. But she did continue her piano lessons with Beethoven even after she was married with children.

There may have been a second chance for the love birds to finally get together when Josephine’s husband passed away from pneumonia, but she was pressured by her family to cut ties with Beethoven for good. If she had married him, she could have potentially lost custody of her aristocratic children. Crazy times indeed. 

However, Beethoven’s legacy at Brunsvick Castle continues. His music is performed in the garden every summer in a series of concerts.

Flatpack Films has years of experience servicing international brands, agencies, and production companies. Filming in Hungary is easy when relying on their knowledge of the market and ability to solve complex needs. They bring the best that Hungary has to offer in terms of unique locations, exceptionally skilled crews, top-of-the-line equipment and technical solutions. Backed by an impeccable track record, Flatpack Films has worked with world-class clients including Samsung, Samsonite, Toyota, Braun, Chivas Regal and many more.

Get in touch and learn more about Budapest film locations, Hungarian film incentives, film tax credits in Hungary and how Flatpack Films can bring your project to life through a highly bespoke approach.

Sources & further reading:

 https://welovebudapest.com/en/article/2021/06/07/sights-culture-beethoven-s-favourite-getaway-brunszvik-castle-honours-ludwig-s-legacy/

https://turizmus.szekesfehervar.hu/catalog/details/414/lang/en

No Drama in Finding Period Set Locations in Hungary

In a nod to popular period tv series such as Downtown Abbey, Bridgerton and The Buccaneers, we’ve been scouring the region for filming locations to set projects in a similar timeframe. What follows is the first in our series highlighting historic manor-style dwellings of Central Europe; because who doesn’t love a spot of grand-living escapism from the 18th and 19th centuries?

Bánffy Castle, via www.startlap.com

Hungary is home to many beautiful manor-style palaces (kastély as they are locally called). But let’s take a trip just beyond its borders for now and look at the village of Răscruci in Romania, known in Hungary as Válaszút, which was part of the broader Hungarian territory of Transylvania prior to World War One.

It’s here that we find a recently restored gem, the Bánffy country house, built in the baroque style of the 18th century by the Hungarian aristocratic Bánffy family. But this is no country shack. Baron Bánffy Ádám, the son of Baron Bánffy Albert and Eszterházy Ágnes, married Wesselényi Mária in 1870 and moved into the house that same year. It appears that the Baron was a bit of a DIY pioneer, as he himself designed and made the (still intact) wooden furniture of the dining room and a few of the tiled stoves–with the assistance of artisan helpers of the time.

Lavish, original interiors. Via www.startlap.com

Considering how history unfolded in this part of the world, however, it meant that the building fell into a state of disrepair. But thanks to EU and Cluj city council funding, the manor has undergone extensive refurbishment on not only its façade but also its interiors, which took over five years to complete.

István Vákár, the Hungarian VP of the council, described the castle as a "jewel" with its rare, intact wooden interior panelling and ceilings—a rarity in Transylvanian castles where decay often tells a different story.

The manor is located about 25 km from Cluj in Romania and is operated by the city council of Cluj, who hope to create a cultural centre within its walls.  

Flatpack Films has years of experience servicing international brands, agencies, and production companies. Filming in Hungary is easy when relying on their knowledge of the market and ability to solve complex needs. They bring the best that Hungary has to offer in terms of unique locations, exceptionally skilled crews, top-of-the-line equipment and technical solutions. Backed by an impeccable track record, Flatpack Films has worked with world-class clients including Samsung, Samsonite, Toyota, Braun, Chivas Regal and many more.

Get in touch and learn more about Budapest film locations, Hungarian film incentives, film tax credits in Hungary and how Flatpack Films can bring your project to life through a highly bespoke approach.

Sources:

 https://dailynewshungary.com/photos-beautiful-hungarian-castle-renewed/

https://www.ceeol.com/search/article-detail?id=195263

A Tale of Three Cities: Budapest Turns 150

Exploring film locations in Budapest as the city celebrates 150 years since unification of the three towns of Buda, Pest, and Óbuda.

Majestically straddling either side of the Danube River, Budapest’s backstory gives some insight into why one of Europe’s most beautiful capital cities is so diverse in character. Often referred to as Pest-Buda before unification in 1873, Budapest has become a harmonious blend of what once was three distinct towns. This has undoubtedly helped make it the unique and inspiring place it is today.

Heroes’ Square and Andrássy avenue, via www.dailynewshungary.hu

Pest: The Dynamic Urban Stage

Sprawling across the eastern side of the Danube, Pest is often characterized as the modern face of Budapest for its gritty, urban landscapes. But Pest is no stranger to history. Originally founded as a Celtic settlement, Pest was first mentioned in written form way back in 1148. Some think its name may have come from the Slavic word meaning oven or furnace. That’s not confirmed, but the cityscape certainly heats up like one in the summer months.

Confusingly for visitors, the locals tend to say “Pest” whenever they mean the entire city of Budapest. That might be because Pest comprises two-thirds of the city’s territory.

The gothic Hungarian Parliament Building, known as one of the architecturally most impressive parliaments in the world, dominates the Danube’s eastern bank. Other major sights this side of the river include Heroes’ Square and city park as well as the elegant boulevard that runs towards it from downtown, Andrássy Avenue.

The Hungarian Parliament, via www.parliament.hu

Pest's diverse neighborhoods, such as the lively Jewish Quarter with its plethora of backstreets, gyros joints, ruin bars and vibrant night life, offer a dynamic and modern backdrop for filmmakers seeking an urban edge.

Buda: An Epic Historical Set

Buda, nestled on the western banks of the river, was the historical capital of the Kingdom of Hungary. Chronicles from the Middle Ages claim that the name ‘Buda’ originally came from a man called Bleda. We don’t hear about him much as he was killed by his brother, Attila the Hun, who then threw his corpse in the Danube.  

Despite that bloody start, Buda is regarded as Pest’s calmer sibling. Blessed with gently rolling hills and dotted with forests, Buda is often favoured by families and the well-heeled. Certainly there’s more room to roam with less of the frenetic energy of Pest. This has given rise to a friendly rivalry, with some die-hard Pest residents finding it difficult to forgive anyone who dares cross the river to live in Buda.  

Fisherman’s Bastion, via www.budapestinfo. Photo: Bódis Krisztián

Buda is also a cinematic journey through time. Narrow, cobblestone streets wind their way through medieval architecture leading to the Buda Castle, perched above the Danube on the western side. The castle and surrounding district (a UNESCO World Heritage site) are a living museum perfect for period pieces.

Remnants of Ottoman rule also remain, such as the Rudas Baths. Turkish hammam culture has endured for 450 years; if you’ve ever spent a lazy Sunday afternoon hopping from one hot thermal bath to the next, it’s not hard to see why. 

The Rudas Baths via www.rudasfurdo.hu

Óbuda: A Cinematic Time Capsule

Moving even further back in time we come to the oldest sibling of the trio, Óbuda. Evidence of settlements dating back to the Stone Age have been found in the area and the Romans established the capital of Pannonia here, Aquincum. The remains of one of their amphitheatres can still be visited.

The place was also a significant settlement for Hungarian tribal leaders after the year 900. The Kiscelli Museum, a Baroque monastery built in the mid 18th century, is another superb location for period projects.

The Kiscelli Museum, via Wikipedia

But it’s not just the historical significance of bygone eras that characterises Óbuda. Sziget, the music festival held here on a large island in the Danube, is touted as Europe’s answer to Burning Man in the US. The event attracts over half a million visitors annually, with headline acts like Billie Eilish, FooFighters, David Guetta and Lorde.

Sziget music festival, via www.hungarytoday.hu.

Like all great protagonists, Budapest's history is complex, troubled, and at times traumatic. It’s a history that has left deep marks on this city not only in terms of architecture, but also in less tangible ways, like atmosphere and energy. As this vibrant capital celebrates its 150th birthday, we raise a  glass in celebration and hope that the lights, camera, and action continue to shine brightly on this enchanting grand dame of Central Europe.

Flatpack Films has years of experience servicing international brands, agencies, and production companies. Filming in Hungary is easy when relying on their knowledge of the market and ability to solve complex needs. They bring the best that Hungary has to offer in terms of unique locations, exceptionally skilled crews, top-of-the-line equipment and technical solutions. Backed by an impeccable track record, Flatpack Films has worked with world-class clients including Samsung, Samsonite, Toyota, Braun, Chivas Regal and many more.

Get in touch and learn more about Budapest film locations, Hungarian film incentives, film tax credits in Hungary and how Flatpack Films can bring your project to life through a highly bespoke approach.

Sources & further reading:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Budapest

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pest,_Hungary

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Buda

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Óbuda

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sziget_Festival

Film Production Set to Boom in Hungary Post-SAG-AFTRA strike.

Putting a lengthy 118-day standoff with AFTRA behind them, SAG (the Screen Actors’ Guild) reached an agreement late last week. The welcome news comes less than a month after members of the Writers’ Guild of America similarly ratified their own deal and draws the curtain on a staggering seven months of industrial action that has affected the industry across the globe.

With the board passing its approval last Friday, the 160,000-strong actors' guild will now also cast their votes on the agreement. But with the strike halted, a swift return to work and resumption of production is expected.

The collective sigh of relief this brings worldwide to a beleaguered entertainment community is apparent. According to Deadline, the strike resulted in 45,000 job losses and an estimated loss of $6.5 billion to the economy–and that’s only the numbers for Southern California.

 It’s no surprise that the ripple effects of the strike was also felt in Hungary, a country that has established itself as a leader in servicing international film and tv productions.

Via Wikipedia

Hungary: Europe’s second largest production hub after the U.K.

Crews in Hungary fared somewhat better than their American counterparts in the thick of strike action. As Christopher Vourlias of Variety reported at the beginning of November, high-profile productions such as Pablo Larrain's "Maria" and A24's "Death of a Unicorn" set up in Budapest, taking advantage not just of the city’s diverse locations and Hungary’s competitive rebate scheme, but also SAG-AFTRA waivers.

Back in September, when the writers’ strike was resolved, there was cautious optimism that things would soon be returning to business as usual.

Production services for the film “Poor Things”, shot in Budapest and currently generating much Oscar buzz, was provided by local outfit Pioneer Stillking Films. Managing director Ildikó Kemény noted at the time, “We have been lucky because we haven’t really stopped. We are constantly budgeting, presenting location and studio possibilities for U.K. and American projects now that the SAG strike’s end is in sight.”

The producer of the film, Ed Guiney praised Budapest for its large soundstages, skilled crews, competitive costs, and a 30% cash rebate to boot. He further noted that these factors played a big part in enabling bold creative choices that wouldn’t have been possible in a costlier location.

Incidentally, Flatpack Films had the pleasure of working with the celebrated director of “Poor Things”, Yorgos Lanthimos, when he was an up-and-coming commercial director some ten years ago.

Hungarian Film Commissioner Csaba Kael, in an interview with Variety, underscored Hungary’s movie traditions and its film cultural “DNA”. Cultivated over 123 years, it’s led to the development of highly committed and skilled crews as well as shooting facilities and infrastructure that is continuously being improved and expanded upon.

This, together with Hungary’s visual versatility and the openness of local government in collaborating with film and television productions, could elevate the country’s position even further in servicing global film productions.

Flatpack Films has years of experience servicing international brands, agencies, and production companies. Filming in Hungary is easy when relying on their knowledge of the market and ability to solve complex needs. They bring the best that Hungary has to offer in terms of unique locations, exceptionally skilled crews, top-of-the-line equipment and technical solutions. Backed by an impeccable track record, Flatpack Films has worked with world-class clients including Samsung, Samsonite, Toyota, Braun, Chivas Regal and many more.

Get in touch and learn more about Budapest film locations, Hungarian film incentives, film tax credits in Hungary and how Flatpack Films can bring your project to life through a highly bespoke approach.  

Sources & further reading:

https://variety.com/2023/film/focus/hungary-production-budapest-poor-things-1235763265/

https://variety.com/2023/film/news/hungary-cinema-film-commissioner-poor-things-1235778621/

https://apnews.com/article/actors-strike-deal-d5f9769fd8a263170141a60da64cdc98

https://deadline.com/2023/10/actors-strike-talks-friday-optimism-1235584425/

Budapest’s Matild Palace: A UNESCO-listed Gem Restored to its Former Glory.

We’ve said it before and we’ll say it again: there’s so much to admire architecturally speaking in Budapest. This is one of the key reasons the city has become a hub of international film and television productions looking to shoot various locales and epochs in Europe.

The Matild Palace. Photo from The Marriott.

Budapest is home to so many drop-dead gorgeous buildings; its always a treat to see the ones discoloured with layers of grime from years of neglect tenderly restored.

 That was the story for one such treasure, The Matild Palace. A neo-baroque building of yesteryear, it had been ravaged by turbulent times. Yet, it stood tall for over 120 years, gracefully welcoming travelers crossing the Danube from Buda to Pest. The building’s fortunes changed, however, when it emerged in 2021 from a five-year transformation to become the Marriott-branded Matild Palace, a Luxury Collection Hotel.

Built in 1902 during the peak of the Austro-Hungarian empire, the palace embodied a time of economic posterity, playing host to Europe's elite in its golden years.

 The story begins with Archduchess Mary Klotild, who envisioned a touch of Belle Époque culture in Hungary. She commissioned the Matild and its sister building, Klotild Palace, to frame the Pest-side entrance of Elisabeth Bridge. The Matild held private apartments and a bustling café.

Photo from Matild Café.

 In the early 1900s, the palace sparkled with intricate Zsolnay ceramics and breathtaking stained glass by Miksa Róth. It even boasted Budapest's first elevator.

 From glittering royals to dazzling celebrities, the Matild Palace was the place to see and be seen. Its coffee house was the heartbeat of Hungary's café culture, where the who's who of the era gathered to connect and exchange ideas. One of Hungary’s renowned writers, Gyula Krudy, was a regular here.

Photo from The Marriott.

But as history's tides turned, the palace weathered wars, a revolution, and a decline under communist rule.

 Nevertheless, the Matild Palace's café remained a cultural haven, even under the strict control of its state-controlled era, a testament to the resilience of both structure and spirit. It earned UNESCO protection in 1977.

 Through various transformations, from Lidó to disco and casino, the Matild Palace has evolved with the times. In 2017, a monumental $80 million renovation breathed new life into this historic gem, meticulously preserving its grandeur.

 Today, the Matild Palace proudly showcases its original Belle Époque elegance. Guest rooms pay homage to Hungarian craftsmanship, featuring unique headboards and fishbone-design parquet floors. The pièce de résistance? The Maria Klotild Royal Suite, a homage to the archduchess herself, adorned with crystal chandeliers and bespoke furnishings.

In this time-traveling masterpiece, Matild Palace beckons travelers, locals, history buffs­–and film crews–to experience the magic of old world Budapest.

 Flatpack Films has years of experience servicing international brands, agencies, and production companies. Filming in Hungary is easy when relying on their knowledge of the market and ability to solve complex needs. They bring the best that Hungary has to offer in terms of unique locations, exceptionally skilled crews, top-of-the-line equipment and technical solutions. Backed by an impeccable track record, Flatpack Films has worked with world-class clients including Samsung, Samsonite, Toyota, Braun, Chivas Regal and many more.

Get in touch and learn more about Budapest film locations, Hungarian film incentives, film tax credits in Hungary and how Flatpack Films can bring your project to life through a highly bespoke approach.

Sources & further reading:

https://edition.cnn.com/travel/matild-palace-budapest/index.html

https://welovebudapest.com/en/article/2021/7/9/sights-culture-the-matild-palace-now-shines-in-her-original-splendour

https://fromhungarywithlove.wordpress.com/2020/10/02/klotild-twin-palaces/

Budapest's Brutalist Marvels: Where Concrete Meets Culture

We’ve looked at how current productions filming in Hungary are shooting Budapest to depict Paris of the early to mid-twentieth century. But Hungary is a country with a complex personality, reflected in its eclectic architectural style. As such, it has a wide range of locales and moods in its repertoire.

 Everyone has their gritty side; the one where life’s challenges have left marks on the psyche. To get deeper into the character of Hungary and its capital Budapest, we have to go beyond the charming façade; the old-world milieu of neo-Renaissance and opulent baroque styles into perhaps what could be termed its polar opposite: Brutalism.

Picture this: colossal blocks of concrete reaching for the sky, surrounded by shades of grey. It’s a place where you have to move fast, or risk being immortalized in a sea of cement.

Salgótarján, Hungary

Salgótarján, Hungary

What is architecture–especially to a layperson such as me–but a snapshot of genre; a mise-en-scene where storytelling takes off?

Brutalist architecture, commonly featuring unpainted concrete or brick and angular shapes, is characterised by highly minimalist design that eschews anything ornate or decorative. One would assume it’s a style born of totalitarianism; t’s a vibe that quite obviously rejects bourgeois frivolity in favour of a no-nonsense message of “equality for all”.

It’s therefore not surprising that Brutalism quickly proliferated throughout the Soviet satellite states of Eastern Europe in the cold war era and particularly utilized in institutional buildings. But the architecture itself was pioneered in the UK by architects Alison and Peter Smithson after the 1950s.

With its clean lines and austere facades, there are many examples of the style to be admired in Budapest in structures such as The Budapest Hotel or the Széll Kálmán square metro stop.

One of the more famous examples of Brutalism in London is the National Theatre, which King Charles once described as looking like “a nuclear power station”.

The National Theatre, London. Photo via www.designingbuildings.co.uk

Sure, the style has its detractors who term it “cold” or “soulless” and are calling for it to be eradicated from skylines. But doesn’t it deserve to retain its place in our cities as a stark reminder of our common history?

Let’s celebrate Brutalism, along with the inevitable graffiti that adorns it, with a final word from Gianluigi Ricuperati, editor in chief of @novaexpress_mag:

“Brutalism was the blue pill of urban planning for communities and town councils across five continents. It allowed municipalities to build social housing and public buildings with a limited budget and a cultural blessing. The godfather of all architects, Le Corbusier, explicitly highlighted the beauty of “brutal matter,” and in general terms, colors and shapes that look great on a concrete background.”

Council Estate in Újpest.

Flatpack Films has years of experience servicing international brands, agencies and production companies. Filming in Hungary is easy when relying on their knowledge of the market and ability to solve complex needs. They bring the best that Hungary has to offer in terms of unique locations, exceptionally skilled crews, top-of-the-line equipment and technical solutions. Backed by an impeccable track record, Flatpack Films has worked with world-class clients including Samsung, Samsonite, Toyota, Braun, Chivas Regal and many more.

Get in touch and learn more about Budapest film locations, Hungarian film incentives, film tax credits in Hungary and how Flatpack Films can bring your project to life through a highly bespoke approach.

Sources:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brutalist_architecture

https://www.designingbuildings.co.uk/wiki/National_Theatre

https://www.ssense.com/ko-kr/editorial/culture/a-10-building-guide-to-brutalist-architecture

Famous Faces out and about in Budapest

For the past decade or so, Budapest has become the most sought-after film location in Europe after London.

Add to that highly anticipated concerts and music festivals that go on year-round (such as the Sziget Festival in August) and it’s really no surprise to hear of famous faces spotted out and about enjoying the city’s culinary delights or vibrant nightlife.

And when they’re not generating revenue for the likes of Netflix and Spotify, these celebs want to get out and spend some of their own hard-earned dollars.

Budapest may not have Rodeo Drive, but its off-beat, quirky shops and brands are making an impression on people who can afford to shop anywhere!

Jenna Ortega, photo from Wikipedia

Jenna Ortega's Vintage Affair at LoveChild

Known for her iconic portrayal of Wednesday Addams, Jenna Ortega has recently been filming in Budapest with the renowned production/distribution company A24. Taking a break from shooting the film ‘Death of a Unicorn,' Ortega partook in some retail therapy with a twist: browsing through pre-loved clothing at LoveChild Vintage Budapest, a charming boutique store nestled next to the Opera House.

We’d love to see what she ended up buying… and we can’t help but applaud Ortega’s sustainable purchasing choices! Vive le circular economy!

Billie Eilish, photo from Wikipedia

Billie Eilish's post-Sziget Festival Scent Hunt.

The final day of the famed Sziget Festival saw the mega-star Billie Eilish gracing the main stage. She did not disappoint! The day after the concert, Eilish tracked down some unique Hungarian wares­­–and we’re not talking salami. She paid a visit to specialty perfumery 7scents in Budapest, spending one and a half hours in extensive sniff tests… and no doubt finding the perfect one!

Well done, Billie, for supporting small, local brands! What a legend!

Flatpack Films has years of experience servicing international brands, agencies and production companies. Filming in Hungary is easy when relying on their knowledge of the market and ability to solve complex needs. They bring the best that Hungary has to offer in terms of unique locations, exceptionally skilled crews, top-of-the-line equipment and technical solutions. Backed by an impeccable track record, Flatpack Films has worked with world-class clients including Samsung, Samsonite, Toyota, Braun, Chivas Regal and many more.

Get in touch and learn more about Budapest film locations, Hungarian film incentives, film tax credits in Hungary and how Flatpack Films can bring your project to life through a highly bespoke approach.

Discovering the Cinematic Potential of an Industrial Relic at Hungary’s INOTA Festival.

An inaugural festival highlights why a 1950s-era power plant is such a popular filming location in Hungary.

Power plants are not usually what immediately spring to mind when hunting for atmospheric locations. But the Inota Thermal Power Plant, closed in 2001 and brought back to life by the INOTA festival 2023, is proving it has what it takes to be a cinematic goldmine. 

That’s not entirely surprising for everyone. Nestled on the outskirts of a sleepy village, this industrial marvel has long been a go-to-spot for film crews seeking that perfect post-apocalyptic setting.

Photo by RandomPhotos1989 from Wikipedia

Architecturally, it’s an absolute gem of socialist-realism and represents one of the largest investments undertaken in Hungary in the 1950s. Dominated by a large building and three towering cooling towers, this sprawling industrial space could be an epic backdrop for your next European shoot.

And at just an hour’s drive from the capital, you can file it away as a Budapest film location just waiting to be captured for the right cinematic moment.

Credit: Adrián Zoltán, 24.hu

As for the festival, we’ve seen our share in Hungary over the years. But if you’re after entertainment with a backdrop of rusted machinery and crumbling walls heavy with apocalyptic feeling and shades of steampunk, then INOTA is just the ticket. 

The festival makes superb use of the power plant’s decaying structures, originally built in the Stalinist era, with an impressive emphasis on sensory art experiences. The turbine hall and cooling towers are transformed by lighting techniques and displays to create a truly unique party venue with a post-civilization vibe.

Local as well as international audio-visual VJs and companies were on site with their shows, including Daniel Besnyõ. He was there with his latest project, the Secret Mapping Experiment, where images are projected onto buildings and industrial sites, providing a framework to reassess the space and architecture.

But INOTA Festival isn't just about the visuals. It's also a haven for electronic music enthusiasts, filling a void in Hungary’s music scene and offering a lineup that can hold its own on the European market. The stunning lightshows, art-installations and exhibitions complement the diverse array of techno performances, which clearly gain an extra layer of dark ambiance from the unusual location. 

The festival's marriage of music and visuals, along with its unique industrial backdrop, provides an unparalleled experience for both filmmakers and festival-goers alike. It's a chance to witness the power of this Hungarian film location in action and see how it can elevate your next project.

Photo by RandomPhotos1989 from Wikipedia

Photo by RandomPhotos1989 from Wikipedia

The power plant is no stranger to being re-purposed. The decaying soviet-era aesthetic, slowly being reclaimed by vegetation, has been a popular filming location for projects filming in Europe. Since closing, it’s been used several times in tandem with other Budapest shooting locations.

The building’s current state metaphorically represents a deterioration of the once stark “worker’s paradise”, the soviet era and life behind the iron curtain. But perhaps it most evocatively portrays a cursed landscape forgotten by time, making it an ideal location for anything post-apocalyptic. 

Photo by Christo from Wikipedia

Tellingly, scenes from Blade Runner 2049 were filmed here. It’s a testament to Hungary’s versatility in providing a wide range of filming options, from period to contemporary and sci-fi projects. 

Learn about the festival and see more of the power plant here:

https://telex.hu/kult/2023/09/03/inota-fesztival-buli-eromu-elektronikus-zene-kulturalis-fovaros-riport-2023https://telex.hu/kult/2023/09/03/inota-fesztival-buli-eromu-elektronikus-zene-kulturalis-fovaros-riport-2023

Flatpack Films has years of experience servicing international brands, agencies and production companies. Filming in Hungary is easy when relying on their knowledge of the market and ability to solve complex needs. They bring the best that Hungary has to offer in terms of unique locations, exceptionally skilled crews, top-of-the-line equipment and technical solutions. Backed by an impeccable track record, Flatpack Films has worked with world-class clients including Samsung, Samsonite, Toyota, Braun, Chivas Regal and many more.

Get in touch and learn more about Hungarian film incentives and film tax credits in Hungary and how Flatpack Films can bring your project to life through a highly bespoke approach.

A Hungarian in Hollywood: William Fox

via Wikipedia Commons

Twentieth Century Fried. That’s what the goliath film studio would have been called had Vilmos Fried decided to keep his original name, instead of anglicizing his mother’s maiden name of Fuchs. An immigrant from Tolcsva, Hungary, Fox’s mother arrived in the United Stated in the late 19th Century to look for a better life for herself and her baby boy.

As a young man, William Fox made multiple forays into business before becoming fascinated with the nickelodeon – a progenitor to modern film projectors. He sold his textile company to buy a nickelodeon theater in Brooklyn in 1904. By 1914 Fox had founded his own film studio, Fox Film Corporation, and quickly rose to prominence as a producer of crowd-pleasing silent films. Ever hungry for more business, Fox began buying movie theaters. For a time, Fox owned a large west coast chain called Fox West Coast Theaters, which, at its apex, had over 300 theaters. Under his leadership, larger screens were installed to give the viewer a more spectacular experience. Movie-goers also saw the introduction of news reels before film presentations; a foray that would foreshadow modern-day Fox News. Fox’s empire was only set to grow when he attempted to purchase MGM studios, though the deal was annulled by US courts because it was deemed a monopoly.

via Wikipedia Commons

As a producer, Fox oversaw almost three hundred films, starring the likes of Lousie Brooks and Tom Mix. Fox’s studio utilized the latest in sound technology to produce the first ‘talkie’, The Jazz Singer. At the peak of his career, Fox was, along with Louis Mayer, one of the titans of early Hollywood. In his own words: “No second of every 24 hours passes but that the name of William Fox is on the screen in some part of the world.”

via Wikipedia Commons

Fox’s later career was beset by tragedy. His greatest star, Will Rodgers, was killed in a plane crash, and many on his studio’s roster of talent, including Spencer Tracy, were dropped from the studio due to substance abuse problems. Fox himself was almost killed in an auto accident. While he was recuperating, the country was hit by the Great Depression. His empire was further diminished by a court finding that forced him to sell his theater chain. To avoid bankruptcy, Fox merged with Twentieth Century Pictures. While fighting an anti-trust suit brought by the US government, Fox was caught trying to bribe a judge, and spent six months in jail, after which he retired from film-making. Today, the Fox name lives on in Fox Broadcasting, one of the four primary US television broadcasting stations; and in 20th Century Fox studios, which is responsible for blockbusters from Star Wars to Titanic.

Flatpack Films has many years of experience dedicated to offering expert servicing. It has brought the best of Hungary to countless brands, agencies, and production companies through its unique locations, exceptionally skilled crews, top of the line equipment and technical solutions. Backed by an impeccable track record, Flatpack Films has worked with world-class clients including Samsung, Samsonite, Toyota, Braun, Chivas Regal and many more - bringing their projects to life through a highly bespoke approach.

Famous Hungarians: Harry Houdini

via Wikipedia Commons

Before David Blaine was entombing himself in ice, before Penn and Teller did magic upside down, before David Copperfield disappeared the Statue of Liberty before all of America’s eyes, and before about any magician dared tangle with a straight-jacket, there was Harry Houdini, or as he was known upon birth in a Budapest hospital, Erik Weisz. Though he  was considered more of a stunt performer, and made his name by performing daring escapes, his craft fell under the umbrella of magic.

Houdini was born to a Hungarian Rabbi in 1874, and was just four when the entire family emigrated, setting sail for the United States. It was there that he was nicknamed ‘Harry’ by friends, who riffed on his Anglicized name Ehrich. His first brush with fame came when he was nine, after he took up trapeze, and billed himself as ‘Ehrich, the Prince of the Air.’ He only acquired the name Houdini after falling under the influence of French magician Jean Eugène Robert-Houdin.

Houdini was initially something of a disappointment as a magician. He tried his hand at card tricks in the sideshows and cheap nickelodeons of New York, but found little success in distinguishing himself. It was then that he decided to become more novel, and transform himself into an escape artist. His initial feats of escape brought him a small amount of fame on the Vaudville circuit in America, but his really publicity coup came when he was touring Europe, and was challenged to escape from a pair of Scotland Yard handcuffs. He succeeded, and before long, Houdini was being invited to escape from jails and shackles all across Europe.

Rich from his escapes, he became only more daring. Now it was not enough to escape from jail, he had to elude the clutches of death by hanging from skyscrapers or being immersed in water for his performances. For much of his career, he was one of the highest paid performers in America, eventually supplementing his career with film roles. Houdini died in 1926 of acute appendicitis, aggravated by several blows to the stomach delivered by a skeptical audience member.

Coincidentally, in the film of is life, Houdini, the magician was played by Tony Curtis, another Hungarian who made it big in the States.

via Wikipedia Commons

Flatpack Films has many years of experience dedicated to offering expert servicing. It has brought the best of Hungary to countless brands, agencies, and production companies through its unique locations, exceptionally skilled crews, top of the line equipment and technical solutions. Backed by an impeccable track record, Flatpack Films has worked with world-class clients including Samsung, Samsonite, Toyota, Braun, Chivas Regal and many more - bringing their projects to life through a highly bespoke approach.

Real Men Drink Spritzers: the fabulous Hungarian Fröccs

photo by: Asok5 - https://www.flickr.com/photos/szalkai/36388620314, CC BY-SA 2.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=73489602

Finally, terraces in beer gardens have opened, and people can enjoy society again. In Budapest, this is huge, as we are known for out out-door, warm-weather bars.

One of the touching things about warm weather in Budapest is the sight of grown men drinking white or rosé wine spritzers outdoors. The drink (known as fröccs in Hungarian) has a decidedly feminine connotation in countries farther west, but here men of all size and persuasion enjoy fröccs in full view of their peers. Though recipes vary, below is a general, but by no means comprehensive, list of fröccs, showing the rations of wine to soda water (in decilitres) used when making the much-loved refresher.

Kisfröccs (small spritzer)       1:1

Nagyfröccs (large spritzer)     2:1

Hosszúlépés (the long step) 1:2

Krúdy fröccs (inspired by wine-loving writer Gyula Krúdy)  9:1

Háziúr  (landlord’s spritzer) 4:1

Házmester (superintendent’s spritzer) 3:2

Puskás fröccs (named for the legendary football player Ferenc Puskás) 6:3

Maflás (knucklehead’s spritzer) 5:5

Viceházmester (assistant superintendent’s spritzer) 2:3

Alpolgármester (vice mayor’s spritzer) 4:6

Lakófröccs (tenant’s spritzer) 1:4

Távolugrás (the longjump) 1:9

Hats off to Gyula Krúdy, known as Hungary’s Proust, for innovating a drink that is practically a full bottle of wine. We will lift a Házmester to you, or if we are feeling daring, a Puskás.

Flatpack Films has many years of experience dedicated to offering expert servicing. It has brought the best of Hungary to countless brands, agencies, and production companies through its unique locations, exceptionally skilled crews, top of the line equipment and technical solutions. Backed by an impeccable track record, Flatpack Films has worked with world-class clients including Samsung, Samsonite, Toyota, Braun, Chivas Regal and many more - bringing their projects to life through a highly bespoke approach.

Location Spotter: Budapest's Central Market Hall

In terms of under-utilized film locations in Budapest, it is hard to beat the Central Market Hall (Nagycsarnok) at Fővám Square.

While the Central Market Hall may seem like just a big tourist attraction, is actually primarily used by locals, who have been shopping there for fresh produce for over a century. The structure itself looks not unlikea train station, and indeed, tracks used to alongside it to deliver goods and take away refuse. While the structure bears a striking resemblance to the Eiffel-designed Western Train Station (Nyugati pályaudvar) the Central Market Hall was actually designed by a Hungarian architect named Samu Pecz for an opening in 1897. It was damaged to various degrees during both World Wars, but a comprehensive 1990 renovation returned it to its original shape. The hall itself is all of 10,000 square meters, sitting behind a huge iron gate done in Neo-gothic style. In addition to being an absolute must see attraction for tourists, the building has received international recognition by way of winning the 1999 FIABCI Prix d’Excellence award.

Inside you can find all sorts of produce from the finest smoked paprika to traditionally embroidered materials.

The Central Market Hall was the subject of an hour-long documentary: Food Markets –In the Belly of the City. Budapest was included along with four other cities (Lyons, Turin, Vienna, and Barcelona) in examining the culture of large cities’ central food markets. The film is highly recommended if you want to see just how atmospheric the hall is, and how intriguing the personal stories of select individual vendors are.

Though we have no clip from the documentary, here is the world’s most popular travel-guide writer, Rick Steves, in a video highlighting the Central Market Hall. Enjoy.

The Return of the Undesirable: A Hungarian Classic Found

The history of film in Hungary is almost as long as the history of film itself. This is a nation that prides itself on its record of technical innovations and challenging narrative techniques. The country’s rich cinematic past twine with its technology-savvy present in the reels of Michael Curtiz’s A Tolonc (The Undesirable) which was restored and digitally re-mastered at Budapest’s National Digital Archive and Film Institute.

The Undesirable is one of the many lost films of Hungary’s golden age of silent film, and represents one of the first directorial efforts from Michael Curtiz, who went on to achieve international fame as the director of such films as Casablanca, Mildred Pierce, and The Jazz Singer. His hundred-year-old silent film was discovered in 2013 the basement of the Hungarian House, a cultural center in New York City. How it got there is still unknown, but great efforts were made to return the film to its homeland. The undertaking of returning and restoring the film, at the cost of close to 50,000 Euro, was funded by the Hungarian National Film Foundation, overseen by the late Terminator and Rambo producer, and HNFF head honcho, Andrew Vajna.

Curtiz, born Manó Kaminer Kertész, shot the film in 1914 in the then Hungarian-ruled city of Kolozsvár, (now known as Cluj-Napoca, Romania). Shooting for the film was completed in the summer before the outbreak of WWI. There is evidence that the film was shown in the United States in the 1920s. This would make it one of Hungary’s first releases into the US market.

Upon completion, the re-mastered version of A Tolonc had a theatrical showing in Budapest to celebrate the film’s 100 year anniversary. It was a fine homecoming for a film that spent so long abroad. What a difference a century makes.

Flatpack Films has many years of experience dedicated to offering expert servicing. It has brought the best of Hungary to countless brands, agencies, and production companies through its unique locations, exceptionally skilled crews, top of the line equipment and technical solutions. Backed by an impeccable track record, Flatpack Films has worked with world-class clients including Samsung, Samsonite, Toyota, Braun, Chivas Regal and many more - bringing their projects to life through a highly bespoke approach.