Written by Kianna Best on Feb 10, 2025. Posted in Awards and Festivals

Tenerife displays top performance in 2024

In 2024, Tenerife's audiovisual sector continued an impressive trajectory, hosting 145 productions that contributed approximately EUR 65 million to the island's economy, as reported by the Tenerife Film Commission (TFC). This figure encompasses both completed projects and portions of multi-year endeavours executed within the year.

 

 

The diversity of productions was notable, with the island accommodating 11 feature films, a significant increase in television series rising to 14 from the previous year's six, five television programs, five documentaries, and three docuseries. The commercial sector remained robust with 36 advertising spots and 43 photo sessions. Additionally, Tenerife saw six exclusive post-production projects, highlighting the island's growing prominence in digital post-production—a sector that mobilises distinct resources compared to traditional filming and creates new employment opportunities.

 

The island was the backdrop for several notable feature films and television series. The Swedish production Helicopter Heist for Netflix utilised the services of Volcano Films, bringing international intrigue to Tenerife's landscapes. The BBC returned to the island to film the second season of The Gold, capitalising on Tenerife's diverse settings. German series Für immer Sommer (Forever Summer) centred its plot around a crime committed on the island, with production services provided by Seven Islands Film. Spanish series also made their mark, with Arcadia by Secuoya Studios and The Head by MediaPro Studios, which filmed its third season on the island.

 

 

The animation industry solidified its position, accounting for 32% of the total investment in audiovisual projects. This growth underscores Tenerife's emergence as a hub for animation, attracting international attention and investment. Notably, Mariposas Negras, directed by David Baute and produced by Tinglado Films, Ikiru Films, and Anangu, garnered critical acclaim, winning the Forqué and Gaudí awards, and is a contender for the Goya Awards 2025.

 

Another standout is Superklaus, a family-friendly animated comedy co-produced with 3Doubles Producciones, also nominated for Best Animated Film at the Goya Awards 2025. Additionally, 3Doubles Producciones completed the feature film Helen, further establishing Tenerife's reputation in the animation industry.

 

The economic impact of these productions extended beyond direct spending. In 2024, audiovisual activities generated 3,692 technical and artistic positions—a 12.52% increase from the previous year—and 4,927 roles for extras and background talent. This surge in employment reflects the sector's expanding influence on the local job market.

 

 

In terms of production origins, German projects led with 36, slightly surpassing Spanish productions at 35. The United Kingdom followed with 21 productions. Notably, American productions increased to 17, marking the highest number of U.S. projects ever recorded on the island.

 

The total number of filming days reached 896, underscoring the island's capacity to support extensive production schedules. The Tenerife Film Commission (TFC)  played a pivotal role in these achievements by attracting productions and offering support services such as location scouting, permit assistance, and sustainability guidance. The TFC also emphasised training, organising workshops in areas like digital capture, eco-management, and various production roles to enhance local expertise.

 

Looking ahead, the TFC plans to attend international events to attract more audiovisual projects to the island. Additionally, the island will showcase its excellent local companies in the audiovisual industry that have experience in pre-production, filming, animation, and post-production, as well as those engaged in the rental of production equipment.

 

Images courtesy of Tenerife Film Commission