Adam Davies, associate director at Savills said: "Scotland's landscapes truly are the gift that keeps on giving. By leveraging local opportunities and collaborating with experts, landowners can capitalise on the demand for unique film locations."
Farmers and landowners have been urged to think about the ways their businesses could provide Hollywood producers with an ideal setting to film their next big-screen epics.
Film producers are always on the lookout for the next location which could add romance, intrigue, suspense, and joy to audiences around the world who marvel at the landscapes which push movies to Oscar winning contention.
In the aftermath of the 78th British Academy Film Awards (BAFTA) on Sunday (February 16), Adam Davies, associate director at Savills, has been reflecting on the impressive strides Scotland has made in establishing itself as a premier film production destination.
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Mr Davies, who specialises in tourism, leisure and events at the real estate company, said Scotland's 'dramatic landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and vibrant urban settings' have inspired award-winning films like Outlander, Harry Potter, and Braveheart over the past 30 years.
With Scotland firmly cementing its place in the global film industry, farmers and landowners could seek new opportunities to offer their locations to film and television (TV) production companies, such as Netflix and Prime Video, and benefit from the spotlight.
Embracing the Screen Scotland strategy
"Last year, Screen Scotland, responsible for driving the development of all aspects of Scotland's film and TV industry, launched its strategy to 2030," Mr Davies said.
"It is designed to create associated jobs and to support the industry goal of reaching £1 billion in Gross Value Added by 2030/31.
"This presents opportunities for landowners, including promoting land for TV and film productions and capitalising on increased screen tourism.
"Since its establishment, the value of film and high-end TV production activity has more than doubled between 2019 and 2021.
"To compete internationally, Scotland must continue attracting productions with financial incentives and competitive funding, such as the Production Growth Fund."
The allure of Scotland in film and television
Numerous productions have showcased Scotland's scenic beauty and historical intrigue, from Ben Nevis and Loch Ness to name a few.
VisitScotland's 2023 survey revealed that film, TV, and literature play crucial roles in inspiring visitors, with 37% of long-haul visitors citing these as an influence on their decision to visit Scotland.
Properties near famous film sites can indeed become hot destinations.
"Researching your area's film connections might lead to some creative ways in which you can promote your tourism offering," Mr Davies added.
"Some of our clients have teamed up with other local businesses to create tourism packages that combine visits to film locations with local accommodation and activities.
"Others have capitalised on existing cultural celebrations and events such as Book Week Scotland, the Edinburgh International Film Festival and the Glasgow Film Festival, using relevant hashtags on social media to boost visibility.
"Scotland's landscapes truly are the gift that keeps on giving.
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"Last year, Scotland served as the backdrop for upcoming productions such as Netflix drama The Undertow, Prime Video's new thriller series Fear, and Tornado, which is set to premiere at the 2025 Glasgow Film Festival.
"With Screen Scotland's newly launched five-year strategy to enable the screen sectors to flourish, even more opportunities are likely on the horizon."
For landowners, the opportunities presented by screen tourism are growing.
Mr Davies said: "By leveraging local opportunities and collaborating with experts, landowners can capitalise on the demand for unique film locations.
"Whether it is a last-minute request from a production company or part of a long-term strategy, your property could be capturing the imagination of audiences worldwide and potentially featuring in future BAFTA award-winning productions."
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