David Cronenberg to Film New Sci-Fi Movie in Greece

Famed director David Cronenberg will be filming his new sci-fi movie, with the working title “Crimes of the Future,” in Greece in 2021.

The film will begin principal photography at some point in the summer. According to EKOME CEO Panos Kouanis, it will be one of over an incredible 100 projects to shoot in Greece in 2021. This includes over 18 high-profile international movies (as of now).

Cronenberg hasn’t shared a lot of details about the film yet. However, rumors say that his frequent collaborator Viggo Mortensen may be attached. The two previously worked on “Eastern Promises” and “History of Violence.” In fact, Mortensen was nominated for an Oscar for Best Actor for his role in “Eastern Promises.”

As far as the plot is concerned, Cronenberg’s previous work may offer some clues. In 1970, the director wrote a film with the same name. In that movie, a plague that kills women has afflicted the world. This leads the director of a dermatological clinic to search for his mentor in order to seek answers.

Greece Attracts More Productions Than Ever Before

With the global slowdown in filming due to the pandemic easing up, Greece is welcoming an incredible amount of Hollywood productions to its shores. In addition to the country’s attractive 40% tax rebate, Greece offers productions extremely generous amenities.

Cronenberg is hardly the first big Hollywood star taking advantage of the incentives in Greece. One high profile recent project was Maggie Gyllenhaal’s “The Lost Daughter,” starring Olivia Colman and Dakota Johnson. Others include “Triangle of Sadness,” starring Woody Harrelson, and critically-acclaimed ITV Series “The Durrells.”

From ancient landscapes to world-renowned islands and beaches, A-list Hollywood directors are increasingly flocking to Greece for stunning real-world filming locations.

“Greek Freak” and Other Upcoming Films

Many upcoming productions in Greece have also excited the film world. The Disney+ movie “Greek Freak” about the life of famous NBA star Giannis Antetokounmpo has inspired a lot of Greek pride.

The plot will follow the early years of Antetokounmpo’s life in Athens. Producers cast many rising Nigerian actors in the roles of Antetokounmpo and his family. The movie is expected to detail the basketball player’s rise from the working-class neighborhoods of Athens to the heady life of an NBA MVP. The Milwaukee Bucks star was actually voted MVP two years in a row — in 2019 and 2020.

In addition, the much-anticipated “Knives Out” sequel will also be shot in Greece this summer. With a star-studded cast lead by Daniel Craig, this will be sure to cause a stir.

For Canadian director Cronenberg, this will be his first time shooting in Greece. The auteur has a massive cult following in addition to a notable mainstream presence. His works often mix sci-fi and horror elements in fascinating ways.