In the sun-drenched landscape of Fuerteventura, the magic of the silver screen comes to life! This extraordinary island, the second largest of Spain’s Canary Islands, has been the stage for epic blockbusters and iconic cinematic moments. Its extraordinary landscape, reminiscent of both arid deserts and alien worlds, has been immortalized in the dramatic spectacle of Ridley Scott’s “Exodus: Gods and Kings,” the interstellar action of “Solo: A Star Wars Story,” and the superheroic exploits of “Wonder Woman 1984.” Even the Marvel Cinematic Universe found a home here, with key scenes of “The Eternals” being shot on this very island. From the rolling sand dunes to the volcanic terrains, Fuerteventura continues to be a secret superstar in the world of international film production, ready for its next close-up.
As you read on, prepare to be fascinated by the eclectic list of films that have found a home in the remarkable settings of Fuerteventura – a silent but striking character in each of these cinematic narratives.
November 2023 Update:
As well as the films that have already been filmed in Fuerteventura, there are a few films currently being shot and due to be filmed on the island.
Islands (Working Title)
Naomi and I were in Fuerteventura in September/October when a casting company was looking for extras for the upcoming Jan-Ole Gerster film, Islands, starring Maleficent actor Sam Riley. The Augenschein production was looking was offering between €90-€200 per day for extras + meals, depending on role and if you got a speaking part. They were looking for ‘mature tourists’ of northern European appearance, especially if you could play tennis as Sam’s character is a Tennis coach at a hotel. Filming was due to take place at Tres Islas hotel, Corralejo. Let us know if you got a part!
The Island
Now the SAG-AFTRA strike has concluded, Pawel Pawlikowski film The Island, starring Joaquin Phoenix and Rooney Mara has been given the green light to start production. At present we do not have a filming schedule but we believe it is due to start shooting soon. We will update you with locations when we get them.
Star Wars
Well it does not get much bigger than a Star Wars movie and rumours are that Disney will be back next year to shoot one of their next 3 Star Wars films that is currently in pre-production. The release dates for the films has been updated to May 22, 2026, December 18, 2026 and December 17, 2027. So 2024 could be a big year and we are guessing either Star Wars Rogue Squadron, the Lando movie or both will be part shot in Fuerteventura. We will let you know when we find out locations and filming schedule but we are super excited with this one.
Movies Shot on Location in Fuerteventura
The following are some of the notable films that were shot in Fuerteventura.
Exodus: Gods and Kings (2014)
“Exodus: Gods and Kings” is a 2014 epic biblical film directed by Ridley Scott. The film depicts the life of Moses and his struggle against the Pharaoh Ramses to free his Hebrew people from slavery. The film stars Christian Bale as Moses and Joel Edgerton as Ramses.
The production of “Exodus: Gods and Kings” used the unique landscapes of Fuerteventura to depict ancient Egypt. The island’s barren landscapes, with its large expanses of sand and dramatic rock formations, were perfect for recreating the ancient world on screen.
Notably, the scenes involving the Hebrew slaves working and the ten plagues were filmed in Fuerteventura. It’s also believed that some of the scenes showing the Hebrews’ exodus from Egypt and their subsequent walking in the desert were filmed on the island.
While it’s not specified which exact locations in Fuerteventura were used, the island’s southern region, which is known for its expansive desert landscapes, was likely utilized for these scenes. The areas around Pájara and Jandía are known for their vast open spaces and were likely used for the large-scale scenes involving the Hebrew slaves and the plagues.
Both Christian Bale and Joel Edgerton, along with other members of the cast, would have been involved in these scenes, as they depict crucial moments in the story of Moses and Ramses. Other actors in the film include Aaron Paul, Sigourney Weaver, and Ben Kingsley.
Solo: A Star Wars Story (2018)
“Solo: A Star Wars Story” is a 2018 space western film set in the Star Wars universe. The film is a standalone installment that chronicles the adventures of a young Han Solo, played by Alden Ehrenreich. Other main cast members include Woody Harrelson, Emilia Clarke, Donald Glover, Thandie Newton, Phoebe Waller-Bridge, Joonas Suotamo, and Paul Bettany.
In “Solo: A Star Wars Story,” Fuerteventura’s unique landscapes serve as the backdrop for the planet Savareen. Savareen is a desert-like, coastal planet where Han Solo and his crew refine the coaxium they stole from Kessel, which is a key plot point in the film.
The scenes filmed on Fuerteventura include the ones where Han Solo and his team, including Chewbacca (Joonas Suotamo) and Lando Calrissian (Donald Glover), meet Enfys Nest and learn about the true nature of Crimson Dawn, the crime syndicate they’ve been dealing with. The climactic scenes involving a showdown between Han Solo and Dryden Vos (Paul Bettany), as well as the final conversation between Han and Qi’ra (Emilia Clarke), were also shot here.
The filming took place on the island’s southern coast, particularly in the areas near Playa de Ajuy and Caleta de Fuste. These locations provided a stark, desert-like landscape along with coastal features, perfectly embodying the depiction of the planet Savareen.
Wonder Woman 1984 (2020)
“Wonder Woman 1984,” released in 2020, is the sequel to the 2017 film “Wonder Woman.” The movie stars Gal Gadot as Diana Prince/Wonder Woman, with main cast members Chris Pine, Kristen Wiig, and Pedro Pascal.
In “Wonder Woman 1984,” Fuerteventura was used to represent the Amazonian island of Themyscira, the birthplace of Diana Prince/Wonder Woman. The scenes filmed here were part of the Amazon Olympics sequence at the start of the movie. This is the competition where the young Diana competes against the adult Amazons in a series of athletic contests. The sequence is full of sweeping, dramatic landscapes and showcases the natural beauty of Fuerteventura.
The filming took place at the sand dunes of Corralejo and the Jandia Peninsula in Fuerteventura. These locations offer expansive sandy beaches and dramatic landscapes, making them perfect for representing the mystical island of Themyscira.
Actors involved in these scenes would have included Lilly Aspell, who plays the young Diana Prince, and various extras and stunt performers who played the other Amazons. Gal Gadot, the actor for the adult Wonder Woman, likely wasn’t involved in these scenes as they focus on Diana’s childhood.
The Eternals (2020)
“Eternals” is a 2021 superhero film based on the Marvel Comics race of the same name. It’s part of the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) and is directed by Chloé Zhao. The film features an ensemble cast that includes Gemma Chan, Richard Madden, Kumail Nanjiani, Lia McHugh, Brian Tyree Henry, Lauren Ridloff, Barry Keoghan, Don Lee, Kit Harington, Salma Hayek, and Angelina Jolie.
Fuerteventura, with its unique and striking landscapes, was one of the filming locations for “Eternals.” The scenes filmed in Fuerteventura were used to depict the planet of the Eternals, which is known as Olympia in the comics.
Given the ensemble nature of the film, it’s highly likely that a majority of the main cast, including the likes of Gemma Chan, Richard Madden, and Angelina Jolie, were involved in the scenes shot in Fuerteventura.
While exact filming locations within Fuerteventura aren’t specified, it’s likely that the expansive desert landscapes and unique geological formations of the island were used to create the alien world of Olympia.
The Titan (2018)
“The Titan” is a 2018 science fiction thriller film directed by Lennart Ruff. The film stars Sam Worthington, Taylor Schilling, and Tom Wilkinson.
The movie is about a military family who take part in a ground-breaking experiment of genetic evolution and space exploration. Sam Worthington plays Rick Janssen, a war pilot chosen for an experimental procedure to prepare humans for life on Titan, Saturn’s largest moon, as Earth becomes increasingly uninhabitable.
Parts of “The Titan” were filmed in Gran Canaria and Fuerteventura, which were used to represent both the Nevada desert and the alien landscape of Titan. The unique and otherworldly landscapes of these Canary Islands were ideal for creating the extraterrestrial environment of Titan.
In Fuerteventura, one of the key locations was the Parque Natural de Corralejo, a nature reserve with vast sand dunes. These dunes were used to portray the barren landscapes of Titan in the movie. The unique landscape of Fuerteventura, with its volcanic formations and expansive sand dunes, helped to create the convincing illusion of an alien world.
Given that the film’s story revolves around Sam Worthington’s character, Rick Janssen, it’s highly likely that he was involved in the scenes shot in Fuerteventura. Taylor Schilling, who plays Rick’s wife, Dr. Abigail Janssen, and possibly other members of the cast, may also have been involved in these scenes.
Allied (2016)
“Allied” is a 2016 World War II romantic thriller directed by Robert Zemeckis and starring Brad Pitt as Max Vatan, a Canadian intelligence officer, and Marion Cotillard as Marianne Beauséjour, a French Resistance fighter.
Fuerteventura, with its arid landscapes, was used to represent North Africa in the film. Specifically, the scenes set in Casablanca were filmed on the island. This includes the sequence where Max and Marianne first meet and pretend to be a married couple while carrying out a mission. Some of the romantic scenes between Max and Marianne, as well as the dramatic assassination scene at the German embassy, were also likely filmed on the island.
While the exact locations used in Fuerteventura aren’t detailed, it’s likely that the film used the island’s desert-like landscapes and possibly some of its older architecture to represent Casablanca in the 1940s.
Both Brad Pitt and Marion Cotillard would have been involved in these scenes, as their characters are central to this part of the plot.
Jason Bourne (2016)
“Bourne 5” officially titled “Jason Bourne,” is a 2016 action-thriller film and the fifth installment in the Bourne series. The movie sees the return of Matt Damon in the titular role, with Tommy Lee Jones, Alicia Vikander, Vincent Cassel, and Julia Stiles in supporting roles.
The film used various locations around the world, including Fuerteventura, to depict the globe-trotting nature of the plot. The scenes shot on Fuerteventura were used to represent Athens, Greece, particularly during the night riot sequence. This part of the film involves intense chase scenes and features Bourne evading capture in the midst of a violent protest.
The filming took place in the capital city of Puerto del Rosario in Fuerteventura. The city’s unique architecture and narrow streets were transformed to look like Athens, complete with Greek signage and local extras.
Matt Damon, as Jason Bourne, would have been heavily involved in these scenes, as they are central to his character’s storyline in the film. Vincent Cassel, who plays the Asset (a CIA assassin), also appears in these scenes as he tries to capture Bourne.
The Dictator (2012)
“The Dictator” is a 2012 comedy film starring Sacha Baron Cohen, who plays Admiral General Aladeen, a dictator from a fictitious North African country named the Republic of Wadiya. The film also stars Anna Faris, Ben Kingsley, and Jason Mantzoukas.
Fuerteventura was used as a filming location due to its desert-like landscapes, which were perfect for depicting the fictitious North African setting of Wadiya.
Given the storyline and the locations available in Fuerteventura, it’s likely that exterior shots of Wadiya, including scenes set in the desert and perhaps scenes of Aladeen’s palace, were filmed on the island. The island’s arid landscapes, particularly in the southern region, would have been ideal for these scenes.
Sacha Baron Cohen, as the lead actor, would have been involved in these scenes, and possibly other members of the cast depending on the specific scenes shot there.
Paradise Hills (2019)
“Paradise Hills” is a 2019 science fiction fantasy film directed by Alice Waddington. The film stars Emma Roberts, Danielle Macdonald, Awkwafina, Jeremy Irvine, Arnaud Valois, Eiza González, and Milla Jovovich.
The film tells the story of a young woman named Uma (Emma Roberts) who wakes up on an island in a sort of reform school for young women from high-society families. The island, called Paradise, is presented as an idyllic place for the girls to learn to become perfect versions of themselves.
Fuerteventura, with its unique landscapes and architecture, was used to represent the mysterious island of Paradise. The film used various locations across the island to create the surreal and fantastical world of the film.
One notable location used in the film is the Casa de los Coroneles in La Oliva, which served as the exterior of the extravagant mansion where the girls stay. This historic building, with its unique Canarian architecture, added to the otherworldly feel of the film.
Given the plot of the film, it’s likely that all of the main cast, including Emma Roberts, Danielle Macdonald, Awkwafina, and Milla Jovovich, were involved in the scenes shot in Fuerteventura. These scenes would include various moments set in and around the mansion, as well as the climactic scenes towards the end of the film.
One Million Years B.C. (1966)
“One Million Years B.C.” is a 1966 British adventure fantasy film directed by Don Chaffey. The film is perhaps best known for its iconic depiction of Raquel Welch in a fur bikini, and for its special effects by Ray Harryhausen. The film stars Raquel Welch and John Richardson.
The film is a fantastical representation of prehistoric life and thus required unique and exotic locations for its filming. Fuerteventura, with its vast, barren, and volcanic landscapes, provided the perfect backdrop to represent the prehistoric world. It’s likely that many of the outdoor scenes, including those featuring dinosaurs and other prehistoric creatures, were filmed in various locations around Fuerteventura.
Specific information on which scenes were filmed and where on Fuerteventura is not widely available. However, given the plot and setting of the film, it’s safe to assume that both Raquel Welch and John Richardson, as well as other members of the cast, would have been involved in the scenes shot in Fuerteventura.
The Good Doctor (2011)
This psychological thriller starring Orlando Bloom was partially filmed in Fuerteventura. The island’s unique landscapes were used to depict the tropical setting of the film.
Paradise Beach (2019)
This French action film had several scenes shot in Fuerteventura. The island’s beautiful beaches and coastal areas served as the backdrop for this heist thriller.
Wild Oats (2016)
A portion of this comedy-adventure film starring Shirley MacLaine and Jessica Lange was shot in Fuerteventura. The island’s coastal areas and picturesque towns were used in the film.
Mararía (1998)
This Spanish drama based on a novel by Rafael Arozarena was shot entirely in Fuerteventura. The film offers a detailed view of the island’s landscapes, including the small village of Tindaya, the mountain of Tindaya, and the areas around La Oliva.
TV Series Filmed on Fuerteventura
The following are some of the notable TV Series that were shot on location in Fuerteventura.
Foundation
The Apple series Foundation finished its prolonged shooting schedule on Fuerteventura following disruptions caused by Covid. Foundation also makes use of other worldly locations in Fuerteventura, this includes filming in the municipality of Tuineje, located in the south and in the Las Palmas province. Surreal volcanic landscapes were also filmed at the Caldera de Los Arrabales and the farms referred to as the Granja de Pozo Negro.
Black Mirror (2011-2019)
The episode “Metalhead” from the fourth season of this acclaimed series was filmed entirely in black and white and shot in the stark, desolate landscapes of Fuerteventura. The show used the area around the island’s central mountains to create a post-apocalyptic world.
Whisky Romeo Zulu (2018)
This Spanish TV series shot many of its scenes in Fuerteventura, utilizing the island’s stunning beaches and desert landscapes to create a vivid, sun-drenched aesthetic.
Doctor Who (2005-present)
Fuerteventura was used to depict the alien planet Ranskoor Av Kolos in the episode “The Battle of Ranskoor Av Kolos” from the British science fiction series’ eleventh season. Filming took place in the northern part of the island.
Fifth Gear (2002-)
This British television magazine series has filmed in various locations around the world, including Fuerteventura. The island’s roads were used to test drive and review different cars.
Fuerteventura’s Film Industry
Fuerteventura, the second largest of Spain’s Canary Islands, has been a popular location for film and television productions due to its unique landscapes and favorable climate. Its sandy beaches, dunes, volcanic landscapes, and clear waters provide a versatile backdrop for a variety of settings.
The island’s film-friendly infrastructure and its location in the Atlantic Ocean, not far from the coast of Africa, make it a practical choice for many production companies. Spain’s film-friendly policies, which include tax incentives for productions that choose to film in the country, also add to Fuerteventura’s appeal.
The Fuerteventura Film Commission is a body that helps facilitate the process of filming on the island. They provide support to filmmakers, offering services such as location scouting, permits, logistical support, and liaison with local authorities and services.
In addition to location shooting, Fuerteventura also has a growing local film industry. The island hosts film festivals and has local production companies that contribute to both domestic and international projects.
Overall, Fuerteventura’s unique natural beauty, favorable filming conditions, and supportive infrastructure make it an attractive location for the film industry.
Fuerteventura Film Commission
The Fuerteventura Film Commission is an organization that was established to promote the island of Fuerteventura, the second largest of the Canary Islands, as a prime location for film and television production. The commission serves as the main point of contact for production companies looking to shoot in Fuerteventura and provides a wide range of services to facilitate filmmaking on the island.
Here are some of the key roles and services provided by the Fuerteventura Film Commission:
- Location Scouting: The commission helps filmmakers find the perfect locations for their projects within Fuerteventura. The island offers a wide range of unique landscapes, from vast sand dunes and volcanic terrains to beautiful beaches and clear waters.
- Liaison with Local Authorities: The commission acts as an intermediary between production companies and local authorities. This includes assistance with obtaining the necessary permits and permissions for filming in various locations.
- Logistical Support: Filmmaking involves a lot of logistics, from arranging accommodation and transportation for cast and crew, to sourcing local equipment and services. The Fuerteventura Film Commission helps productions navigate these challenges.
- Promotion: The commission actively promotes Fuerteventura as a film-friendly location, both domestically and internationally. This includes participation in film festivals, industry events, and other promotional activities.
- Incentives and Funding: The commission can provide information about tax incentives and funding options available to productions that choose to film in Fuerteventura.
- Local Talent and Resources: The commission can also help connect production companies with local talent, crew members, and service providers.
By offering these services, the Fuerteventura Film Commission plays a crucial role in attracting and supporting film and television production on the island.
Thats a Wrap!
Fuerteventura has proven itself to be a film production powerhouse, offering not only unique and diverse landscapes, but also a favourable climate and a supportive film-friendly infrastructure. Whether transforming into the sweeping desert vistas of biblical times, the thrilling alien terrains of distant galaxies, or providing a picturesque backdrop for contemporary dramas, this island has displayed unparalleled versatility. This, combined with Spain’s beneficial filming policies and the professional services of the Fuerteventura Film Commission, has made the island an irresistible destination for filmmakers worldwide.
The impressive list of films shot on Fuerteventura, from grand epics like “Exodus: Gods and Kings” and “Solo: A Star Wars Story,” to acclaimed superhero movies like “Wonder Woman 1984” and “The Eternals,” bears testament to the island’s ability to capture the creative imagination. As Fuerteventura continues to attract international film and television productions, its contribution to the world of cinema remains an enduring and dynamic legacy. With every new project, Fuerteventura not only enhances its own cinematic tapestry, but also enriches the global storytelling landscape.
