Film and TV Series shot in Marbella
Marbella has been frequented by many Hollywood stars, from our Malaga native Antonio Banderas to Sean Connery, Eva Longoria and Hugh Grant. But with its picturesque landscapes, pristine beaches and vibrant nightlife, it's no wonder that Marbella has caught the attention of the entertainment industry. In this blog, we will explore some of the notable productions that have showcased the town's charm on the big screen.
Why Marbella is a Popular Location for Productions.
Marbella's breathtaking beauty serves as an irresistible backdrop for visual storytelling. The town boasts a remarkable blend of golden sandy beaches, blue Mediterranean waters and a backdrop of majestic mountains. The picturesque Old Town, with its narrow cobbled streets dotted with flowers and charming architecture, adds an authentic touch to any production. The emblematic Paseo Marítimo and Marbella Club Pier also cater to a variety of genres. The famous Puerto Banús also sets a stunning scene for any film. All in all, Marbella provides an exquisite canvas for filmmakers.
TV Shows shot in Marbella
TV Shows shot in Marbella
Black Mirror (Season 6, Ep. 4 - 2023)
Black Mirror is a critically acclaimed British anthology series created by renowned producer Charlie Brooker. Currently comprising 6 seasons, this incredible series explores several genres, with most being set in a near dystopian future and highlighting the themes of technology, media and contemporary social issues.
Season 6 Episode 4 is named Mazey Day, although set between Hollywood and the Czech Republic, most scenes were filmed across Marbella and Malaga Province. You will come to recognise film locations such as Puerto Banús (outside Red Dog Cinema), Turtle Lake (Nueva Andalucía) and Ojén (as well as the A-355 road). Also, the producers opted to use The Loasur Studios in Coín for a primary filming location for season 6.
Toy Boy (2019)
Toy Boy is a popular Spanish Netflix series that has gained popularity worldwide. Starring Jesús Mosquera and María Pedraza, the series revolves around a young and attractive stripper who is wrongfully imprisoned for a crime he did not commit. Pending retrial, he is set free and embarks on a journey to uncover the truth behind the murder and find the person responsible, set against the backdrop of the fiery nightlife and alluring glamour of the Costa del Sol.
The series takes full advantage of its surroundings, with scenes filmed in various locations, including Fuengirola, Torremolinos, Marbella and Vélez-Málaga. Each location showcases the contrasting facets of the Costa del Sol. Notably, the famous Olivia Valere nightclub serves as a backdrop for the series' most intense and explicit scenes.
La Reina del Sur (2010)
La Reina del Sur is a popular American crime/drama series that tells the story of Teresa, who after her drug-involved boyfriend is murdered by a cartel boss, sets out to become a drug lord to avenge the death of her loved one. The acclaimed Mexican/American actress Kate del Castillo plays Teresa.
The renowned Netflix series travelled to Marbella to film, choosing locations such as the Marina la Bajilla port in Marbella, the Marbella Club Beach, the Faro beach, the famous Plaza de la Iglesia and, of course, our beloved Puerto Banús.
Films shot in Marbella
The Business (2005)
The Business is a British cult classic from 2005, immersing viewers in the gritty world of the Costa del Sol during the crime surge of the 1980s. Starring the renowned actor Danny Dyer, the story follows a young man who embarks on a journey to Southern Spain, where he finds himself drawn into the underworld of organised crime. Under the influence of a man named Charlie, he learns the ins and outs of the illicit trade, including the dangerous realms of gunrunning and drug distribution.
The film masterfully captures the essence of the Costa del Sol during the 1980s. The film showcases Marbella landmarks, such as the vibrant Puerto Banus, providing an authentic backdrop to the unfolding story. However, the production and filming of the movie spanned across the coast, from La Linea de La Concepcion to Almuñécar near Nerja.
El Niño (2014)
El Niño is a compelling Spanish film starring the renowned actor Jesús Castro. Set in the notorious Gibraltar stretch, the story revolves around a young boy who, alongside his friend, finds himself entangled in the perilous world of drug trafficking.
While El Niño is not filmed in Marbella, the producers strategically chose locations across Gibraltar and Algeciras to capture the gritty authenticity of the narrative. Both locations lie within an hour's drive from Marbella, offering a sense of geographic proximity to the storyline.
The Second Best Exotic Marigold Hotel (2015)
This mesmerising cinematic masterpiece revolves around the charming and ever-optimistic Sonny Kapoor, who embarks on a new adventure with his dedicated staff as they strive to open a second hotel. Set against the backdrop of breathtaking locations across the globe, the film takes viewers on a journey filled with love, personal growth and delightful chaos.
The film was shot in various captivating locations worldwide; the producers made the inspired choice of capturing the essence of the story in the picturesque towns of Marbella and Malaga. These stunning destinations in Spain served as the perfect backdrop for the film's on-site locations.
Taxi a Gibraltar (2019)
Taxi a Gibraltar is a Spanish/Argentinian comedy film that showcases the talents of the Malaga-born actor Dani Rovira, alongside Joaquín Furriel and Ingrid García-Jonsson. The story revolves around a recently released ex-convict who embarks on a quest to uncover the truth behind a legendary tale of hidden gold within the iconic rock of Gibraltar.
While Taxi a Gibraltar is primarily filmed across Spain, the film beautifully captures the road leading from Marbella to Gibraltar, showcasing the stunning coastal landscapes of the region. The streets of La Linea in Algeciras and the vibrant enclave of Gibraltar itself are intricately woven into the film.
The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (2011)
Starring the talented Daniel Craig and Rooney Mara, The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo is a gripping film adaptation of Stieg Larsson's famous book trilogy. Released to critical acclaim, the story follows a tenacious journalist and a brilliant computer hacker as they delve into the enigmatic disappearance of a woman four decades earlier. Together, they uncover a web of secrets, corruption and intrigue, leading them closer to the truth.
While the film takes place in various locations around the world, the production crew made strategic choices for its settings. Málaga serves as the backdrop for the film's climactic ending sequence. Its picturesque streets and unique atmosphere add depth and visual allure to the film's conclusion. The crew filmed a scene set in Australia in Almería, a city close to Málaga.
