When it comes to the world of cinema, location plays a crucial role in bringing stories to life. Filming in Sri Lanka has become an increasingly attractive choice for filmmakers seeking diverse landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and vibrant settings.
Beyond the artistic and aesthetic appeal, the decision to shoot in Sri Lanka brings significant economic advantages to the local communities. In this blog, we delve into the detailed benefits that film productions bring to Sri Lanka’s economy.
#1 Job Creation
One of the most immediate and tangible benefits of filming in Sri Lanka is the creation of employment opportunities for local residents. From actors and extras to crew members and support staff, the production process requires a wide range of roles.
Technicians, production assistants, drivers, caterers, and security personnel are just a few examples. The influx of film projects generates a considerable number of jobs, contributing to a thriving job market.
#2 Increased Tourism
Filming in Sri Lanka act as powerful promotional tools for the host country. When Sri Lanka is showcased in films, its diverse landscapes, cultural heritage, and enchanting attractions captivate audiences worldwide. This exposure can lead to a significant increase in tourist arrivals, as people are inspired to visit the locations featured in their favorite movies.
Consequently, the local tourism industry, including hospitality, transportation, and services, experiences a substantial boost. The location used in the Oscar winning movie – The Bridge on the River Kwai attracts many tourists to a rather obscure town of Kithulgala, enriching its local economy decades later.
#3 Infrastructure Development
To accommodate film productions, infrastructure development becomes a necessity. The construction or renovation of studios, production facilities, and post-production houses contribute to the long-term development of Sri Lanka’s film industry.
These investments not only improve the country’s capabilities but also attract future productions, generating a positive cycle of growth.
#4 Boost to Local Businesses
The presence of film crews and production companies creates a surge in demand for various goods and services. Accommodations, catering, transportation, equipment rental, and local supplies are just a few examples.
As a result, local businesses, including hotels, restaurants, transport companies, and suppliers, witness a significant increase in revenue and an expansion of their customer base when you film in Sri Lanka. This can provide a much-needed boost for local businesses in the off-season months when tourism dies down and an additional means of income is much welcomed.
#5 Promoting Local Culture and Crafts
Filmmakers often embrace the local culture, traditions, and crafts of Sri Lanka, incorporating them into their productions. This exposure provides recognition and global visibility to Sri Lankan arts and craftsmanship.
As a direct consequence, there is an increased demand for locally made products such as handicrafts, textiles, artwork, and traditional products. This, in turn, supports local artisans, boosts their income, and preserves cultural heritage. In some rare instances local music and language can be used in a production potentially exposing local art to a completely new demographic.
#6 Collaboration and Skills Transfer
International film productions present unique opportunities for local filmmakers and industry professionals to collaborate with experienced international crews. This collaboration fosters the transfer of knowledge, skills, and best practices, enhancing the capabilities and expertise of the local workforce.
The exchange of ideas and techniques helps uplift the local film industry, creating a more vibrant and competitive environment. The best example of this would be how a local camera assistant can work directly with an experienced cameraman using top of the range equipment. This gives invaluable experience to the local camera assistance in learning the ins and outs of what it takes to be a professional cameraman.
#7 Secondary Economic Impact
The economic impact of film productions extends beyond the immediate film-related activities. The spending of film crews and production companies has a multiplier effect on the local economy. Local businesses in sectors such as retail, entertainment, and leisure benefit from the increased influx of visitors. The money spent on accommodations, dining, shopping, and leisure activities circulates within the local economy, generating additional revenue and employment opportunities.
#8 Destination Promotion
Filming in Sri Lanka serve as captivating promotional tools, showcasing the country’s beauty and cultural richness to a global audience. The positive exposure gained through these films attracts international attention and interest. This, in turn, contributes to increased visibility for Sri Lanka as a destination, attracting potential investors, tourists, and businesses, thereby fostering economic growth and development.
#9 Conclusion
the decision to film in Sri Lanka offers more than just artistic and creative benefits. The economic advantages are extensive, ranging from job creation and increased tourism to infrastructure development and collaboration with the local workforce.
Local businesses thrive through the demand for goods and services, while traditional crafts and cultural heritage gain global recognition. The economic impact extends beyond the filming period, fostering secondary economic growth in various sectors.
As filming in Sri Lanka showcases the beauty of the country to the world, they attract investments, tourists, and businesses, contributing to the long-term development and prosperity of the local economy. Sri Lanka’s vibrant landscapes and rich cultural tapestry make it an ideal destination for filmmakers seeking not only visually stunning backdrops but also a positive impact on the local community and economy.
Check out our blog on WHY YOU SHOULD FILM IN SRI LANKA
Check out these stunning LOCATION FOR FILMING IN SRI LANKA
