The action film “The Union”, featuring Mark Wahlberg and Halle Berry, has officially premiered on Netflix
The action film “The Union”, featuring stars Mark Wahlberg and Halle Berry, has officially premiered on Netflix as of August 16, 2024. This spy thriller was filmed in the picturesque region of Istria, Croatia, during the autumn of 2022, showcasing the area’s stunning landscapes.
The production involved a significant local contribution, with 701 crew members participating, including 262 Croatian film professionals. Additionally, the film employed 19 trainees and 72 extras, highlighting the collaboration between international and local talent. PAKT Media managed the production services, with Diego Zanco serving as the operational producer.
The Croatian Audiovisual Centre (HAVC) supported the project through its incentive program, “Filming in Croatia,” which aims to attract foreign productions to the country. This initiative not only promotes Croatia as a filming destination but also boosts the local economy by creating jobs and opportunities for local professionals in the film industry.
In “The Union”, Wahlberg portrays Mike, an ordinary construction worker whose life takes a dramatic turn when he is recruited by his high school sweetheart, Roxanne (played by Halle Berry), for a covert American intelligence mission. This unexpected twist thrusts him into a thrilling world filled with espionage and intrigue.
The film’s trailer has already generated buzz, showcasing some of the breathtaking locations in Istria that were used during filming. As “The Union” makes its debut on Netflix, it represents a growing trend of international filmmakers recognizing Croatia’s potential as a prime filming location, further establishing the country’s reputation in the global film industry.
Several major films and TV series have been shot in Istria, Croatia in recent years, taking advantage of the region’s picturesque landscapes and historic locations:
Recent Films Shot in Istria
– “The Union” (2024) – The action thriller starring Mark Wahlberg and Halle Berry was filmed in Istria in autumn 2022, with production services provided by PAKT Media. The crew spent 14 days shooting on location.
“Red Tails” (2012) – George Lucas’s film about the Tuskegee Airmen used the towns of Grožnjan, Buje, Motovun and Završje in northern Istria to depict southern Italy during WWII. The well-preserved medieval architecture and countryside provided the perfect backdrop.
“Season of the Witch” (2011) – Nicolas Cage’s fantasy film shot scenes on the cliffs of Cape Kamenjak in Istria.
Recent TV Series Shot in Istria
“Borgia” (2013) – The final season of this historical drama about the infamous Borgia family was filmed on locations in Pula, Pazin and Svetvinčenat in Istria.
The picturesque towns, medieval fortifications, castles, and stunning natural landscapes of Istria have made it an attractive filming location for a variety of genres, from historical dramas to action thrillers. The region’s film-friendly policies and 25% cash rebate incentive have further boosted its popularity with international productions in recent years.
