Malta Opens Global Call for Land Sea Super Stage Submissions

What is the Land Sea Super Stage?

The Land Sea Super Stage is a purpose‑built facility at Malta Film Studios that combines expansive water tanks with adaptable land sets. Designed to host complex sequences that require both marine and terrestrial environments, the stage allows directors to shoot scenes that would otherwise need multiple locations.

According to Johann Grech, the head of Malta Film Studios, the project represents the first of its kind in the world. By integrating large‑scale water infrastructure with modular land structures, the stage reduces logistical costs and shortens production timelines.

Why Malta is positioning itself as a hub for high end productions

Malta has long been a favourite for location shooting thanks to its historic architecture, Mediterranean climate and film‑friendly tax incentives. The government’s film commission offers a cash rebate of up to 40 percent for qualifying productions, a rate that rivals many European neighbours.

In addition to financial incentives, the island provides a skilled crew base, modern post‑production facilities and a stable political environment. The addition of the Land Sea Super Stage enhances these strengths by offering a unique asset that cannot be easily replicated elsewhere.

Details of the open call

Malta Film Studios has launched an open call for submissions that will run from 1 October 2026 to 31 December 2026. The call is open to feature films, television series, streaming projects and large scale commercials.

Key eligibility criteria include:

• Projects must be in pre‑production or development stage.
• Budget estimates should exceed €5 million to qualify for priority scheduling.
• Producers must demonstrate a clear need for combined water and land set capabilities.
• Applicants must provide a detailed shooting schedule that aligns with the studio’s availability calendar.

Selected projects will receive:

1. Priority access to the Land Sea Super Stage for a period of up to 12 weeks.
2. Technical support from the studio’s in‑house engineering team.
3. Discounted rates on ancillary services such as costume, props and post‑production.
4. Promotion through Malta’s official tourism and film channels.

Benefits for filmmakers

Choosing Malta for a production that requires both water and land scenes offers several tangible advantages.

• Cost efficiency: Shooting both environments in a single location reduces travel, accommodation and equipment transport expenses.
• Creative flexibility: The modular design of the stage allows rapid set changes, enabling directors to experiment with complex sequences.
• Weather reliability: The Mediterranean climate provides over 300 sunny days per year, while the indoor water tanks guarantee controlled conditions.
• Local expertise: Malta’s crew pool includes specialists in marine cinematography, stunt coordination and visual effects.

How to apply

Producers interested in the Land Sea Super Stage should follow these steps:

1. Visit the official Malta Film Studios website and navigate to the "Open Call" section.
2. Download the submission template and fill in all required fields, including a synopsis, budget outline and visual references.
3. Attach a 5‑minute teaser or concept reel that showcases the intended use of the stage.
4. Submit the completed package via the online portal before the 31 December deadline.
5. Await confirmation of receipt and a preliminary review within four weeks of submission.

For detailed guidelines, see the official open call page.

Industry reactions and expectations

Film producers and industry analysts have welcomed the initiative. A spokesperson for the Malta Film Commission noted that the Land Sea Super Stage could attract productions that previously chose locations in Spain, Italy or the United Kingdom.

European film policy expert Dr. Elena Rossi commented that Malta’s move aligns with a broader trend of smaller jurisdictions investing in high‑tech infrastructure to compete for global projects. She referenced a recent report by the European Audiovisual Observatory that highlighted the growing importance of multifunctional stages in the competitive market.

Early interest has already been expressed by several high profile series creators seeking a Mediterranean backdrop for action sequences that blend sea chases with desert‑like terrain.

For further reading on European film incentives, consult the European Commission’s film policy page.

As the deadline approaches, Malta Film Studios expects to receive a diverse slate of projects ranging from historical epics to futuristic sci‑fi thrillers. The studio’s leadership believes that the Land Sea Super Stage will become a cornerstone of the island’s creative economy for years to come.