Due to the global downturn caused by the outbreak of COVID-19, travel, relocation, and gathering bans imposed have completely halted TV & Film productions across the globe.
Forma Pro Films has experience operate the production during the Covid-19 crisis and developed safety protocols to host international film productions in Latvia.
Articles available: variety.com and hollywoodreporter.com
RESTART THE SUSPENDED PRODUCTION IN LATVIA
PERMISSION FROM THE GOVERNMENT TO HOST INTERNATIONAL PRODUCTIONS
Forma Pro Films has received exclusive permission from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for the entry into the territory of Latvia of film cast and crew and to undertake film productions. Overseas cast and crews will take COVID-19 tests upon arrival, have body temperature checks twice a day during production, and observe the precautionary measures specified by the State for the containment of the spread of COVID- 19, including the use of personal protective equipment. This exclusive permission also allows Forma Pro Films to run full-sized international film productions during the COVID-19 crisis.
COMPLETION BOND FOR PRODUCTION
Forma Pro Films can make arrangements with international completion guarantors to secure bonding for films produced in Latvia during the COVID-19 crisis ensuring that Forma Pro Films will complete the production in Latvia on a bonded basis.
COVID-19 INSURANCE (IN PROCESS)
FORMA PRO FILMS together with the local government developing COVID-19 coverage for pre-production and the period of principal photography in Latvia for cast and crew. The Local government will cover the loss to the production due to the death, injury, or illness cast and crew caused by COVID-19.
INCENTIVE PROGRAM UP TO 40% REBATES
Latvia offers a two-level incentive program that provides up to 40% cash rebates. Rebates payout schedule fastest in the region – average rebates payout to Producer is 5-6 weeks after the last shooting day in Latvia.
COST EFFECTIVE PRODUCTION REGION
Latvia is an attractive destination for international movies and TV productions. TodayLatvia offers one of the lowest production cost-bases in Europe in the film and television production industry, vastly varied modern and historical, undiscovered locations, and exceptional local English-speaking talent and crew with an impressive record in US and UK productions including the QUIBI feature film SURVIVE starring SOPHIE TURNER, Oscar winner ANNA PAQUIN and MARCIA GAY HARDEN starring in THE COURAGEOUS HEART OF IRENA SENDLER, and PARIS SONG with ABBIE CORNISH;
FULL CYCLE OF PRODUCTION SERVICES FOR FILM AND TV PROJECTS
LATVIA is able to provide continuous support throughout your entire production cycle in Europe. Flexibility in securing filming permits and locations. Four distinct seasons. Up to 18 hours of daylight at Midsummer. Eurozone. Easy access by air. Non-unionized region. Local government “film-friendly”, lacking in bureaucracy and enthusiastic about hosting international productions
UNDISCOVERED LOCATIONS
Undiscovered locations and ability to simulate any European city Locations video: https://vimeo.com/312128767 Wide range of castles, palaces, ancient fortresses, and manor houses; The locations work well for historical war films, epics, period dramas, horror, crime, action, fairy tales;
CONSTRUCTION AND SOUND STAGES
We offer the full range of set construction services, materials, technicians, and workshops – everything you need to augment an existing set or create a whole new world on the Stage. Low construction and general production costs (due to low salaries)During the USSA era Riga was a major film production hub for Russian movies with the biggest sound stage. https://www .studio.lv/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/stage-1.pdf
CONTACTS
Please feel free to contact our office in Riga, Latvia:
Forma Pro Films, Aldaru Street 12/14, Riga, Latvia, LV1050; info@formaprofilms.com / www.formaprofilms.com /
Mickey Rourke says: “I came to Riga to work and this thing (Covid-19) was so out of control, but everyone was so great.” variety.com