Midwood film studio complex breaks ground in Istanbul

The groundbreaking ceremony for the Midwood Istanbul Film Studio Complex where the heart of world cinema and TV will beat, took place yesterday in Istanbul's Büyükçekmece district. With the slogan "Far beyond dreams," the foundation of the largest Film Studio Complex in Europe, which at the same time is a big sign for world cinema, was laid.

During a speech at the ceremony, the mayor of the district of Büyükçekmece, Hasan Akgün, said that this huge project is not only important for Büyükçekmece, but will also have great importance for Turkey as a country. Indicating that once opened, around 10,000 people will be employed, Akgün said the turnover at this complex would provide a major contribution to Turkey. In addition, he stressed that with film production companies coming from abroad, the inflow of foreign capital will contribute to Turkish economy.

Speaking to Daily Sabah, the chairman of the Midwood Inc. Company, Ahmet San, asked about the details of the project, said this huge complex will cover approximately 505 acres and will be built with an investment of $250 million. He also stated that, with its 21 different filming studios, 17 open air film sets and 18 production workshops, 38 films are going to be able to be made at the same time "We are planning to build a cinema museum, a hotel where world stars and guests are going to be accommodated, an education valley, including a kindergarten and university as well as theme parks and restaurants on these 505 acres. Undisputedly, Büyükçekmece will be the Hollywood of Istanbul. The company will open the entire resort on Oct. 30, 2018," he said.

With its unique visual backdrop, Istanbul has been a favorite set location for international filmmakers; now, it will become one of the major destinations for Hollywood movies with its new world-class film studios and equipment.

The Midwood project became a reality after five years of hard work. Once completed, it will not only be a center for Istanbul-based films, but will also become the most filmed destination in Turkey. Furthermore, it will not only attract film lovers to the region, but it will also draw domestic and foreign tourists. Midwood, aiming to welcome a million visitors in its first year, will make a significant contribution to both the film industry and the region's tourism.