Why Shoot Your Film in India: A Guide for International Filmmakers

Dhruv Murarka

7/14/20252 min read

white concrete castle near body of water
white concrete castle near body of water

Introduction: India, the Global Director’s Playground

From the sun-drenched deserts of Rajasthan to the spiritual stillness of the Himalayas — India is not just a location, it’s a universe of stories waiting to be captured.

And guess what? It’s no longer just Bollywood’s playground. Increasingly, global filmmakers from Canada, the UK, the USA, France, Japan, Germany, and Australia are tapping into the cost-effective, cinematically rich, and logistically supported filmmaking environment that India provides.

If you’re wondering why shoot your film in India, consider this your comprehensive answer.

1. Cost of Filming in India: Unmatched Value for Global Studios

Let’s get this out of the way: India is significantly more cost-effective than most Western countries when it comes to:

  • Crew wages

  • Equipment rentals

  • Location costs

  • Set construction

  • Accommodation & logistics

Studios that spend $500,000 in Europe or the US can often complete similar-scale productions in India for 30–40% less, without compromising on quality.

2. Location Diversity Like Nowhere Else

India offers every kind of terrain imaginable:

  • Snowy Himalayan backdrops (think: “The Mountain Between Us”-style visuals)

  • Dense tropical forests (ideal for action/adventure)

  • Historic forts and palaces for period dramas

  • Bustling metros like Mumbai, Delhi, and Bangalore for urban chaos or sleek modernity

Whether you're creating a dystopian thriller, a fashion-forward commercial, or an Oscar-bait drama — India can match your vision.

3. Permits & Fixers: Easier Than You Think (When You Have the Right Partner)

Sure, bureaucracy can get real in India — but that’s where Flying Stone Filmz steps in.
As a trusted Indian-based production fixer and international line production company, we’ve secured permits for shoots in:

  • Heritage zones (like Jaipur’s Amer Fort)

  • Forest and wildlife zones (with drone clearance)

  • Airports, metros, rail stations, and more

We manage end-to-end permit processes with government bodies, saving you months of paperwork hell.

4. Skilled Local Crew + Foreign Crew Support = Smooth Operations

Flying Stone Filmz has a curated database of:

  • DOPs, line producers, 1st ADs, gaffers, makeup artists, stylists

  • English-speaking unit managers & coordinators

  • Region-specific fixers and assistants

  • Experienced crew with Netflix, Amazon, BBC, and HBO credits

Foreign crew coming in? We handle:

  • Visa assistance

  • Customs clearance for equipment

  • On-ground hospitality

  • 24x7 production logistics & ground transport

5. Transparent Budgeting & Production Support

Flying Stone Filmz ensures you’re never hit with unexpected costs.
We offer:

  • Budget planning based on exact script breakdowns

  • Transparent vendor pricing

  • Real-time tracking of crew, rentals, and shoot days

  • Financial reporting aligned to international standards

International Film Projects Shot in India (Case Studies)

“The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel” (UK)

Shot in Rajasthan — this film brought Jaipur to global screens and proved India’s appeal for emotionally rich, scenic storytelling.
Flying Stone Filmz insight: We now offer similar Rajasthan-based packages with pre-cleared location access.

“Tenet” (USA - Christopher Nolan)

Shot in Mumbai with full coordination between Warner Bros. and Indian line production teams. Complex action sequences, crowd control, and city logistics were managed seamlessly.
Flying Stone Filmz capability: Our team has executed similar multi-location schedules for US-based action projects.

“Lion” (Australia - Dev Patel)

Partially shot in Madhya Pradesh and Kolkata. Highlighted India’s potential for award-winning storytelling without logistical nightmares.
We offer cost-controlled OTT production models just like Lion.

Why Flying Stone Filmz is Your Go-To International Line Production Partner

We are not just fixers — we’re strategists, partners, and protectors of your vision.
Our services include:

  • Full line production services

  • Co-production structuring

  • Government incentive advisory

  • OTT and ad film shoot support

  • Foreign crew logistics & hospitality

  • Sound & post-production tie-ups

Ready to Plan Your Shoot in India?

📍 Flying Stone Filmz
Your International Line Production Partner in India


📧 info@flyingstonefilmz.com
📞 +91-8169210519
🌐 www.flyingstonefilmz.com

Let us take your story global — with India as your canvas.