Behind the scenes: How successful film studios in southern Germany work

What lies behind the heavy doors of film studios? A world where sophisticated technology and creative ideas work hand in hand, yet usually remain hidden from the audience in the finished product. To get a glimpse behind the scenes of a film production studio, we took a keen interest in visiting one or two promising film studios in southern Germany.

The heart of the film production company we examined consists of two adjacent film studios. Movable wall elements allow for flexible room layouts. Studio areas ranging from 200 to 280 m² with a ceiling height of 8.5 m and a 180-degree cove offer virtually endless creative possibilities. Overhead cranes with a lifting capacity of up to 1,250 kg make it possible to realize even the most complex shots.

The electric camera vehicle, specially developed for a film studio in southern Germany, is a real eye-catcher as a custom cam car. It delivers crystal-clear, vibration-free footage at speeds of up to 42 km/h – an indispensable tool for dynamic scenes where every second counts.

For more than 30 years, well-known directors and producers in the entertainment industry have not only relied on production companies in Berlin-Brandenburg. Several film studios in southern Germany, Austria, and Switzerland are also gaining increasing recognition.

But how exactly does this professional machinery, comprised of various disciplines, work? That's what we asked ourselves, too. As part of this investigation, we took a look behind the scenes of major film production companies in German-speaking countries: from sophisticated spatial concepts and highly specialized technology to breathtaking stunts and special effects.

The central areas of a film studio

Many people work only towards the result without enjoying their work and their lives.”

The award-winning filmmaker David Lynch , known for 'Twin Peaks' and 'Mulholland Drive' .

Every modern film studio operates like a precisely calibrated clockwork mechanism. Specialized departments work seamlessly together, creating a complex film production ecosystem.

Studio space and room layout of a film studio

Flexible, spacious production areas are the foundation of every successful film production. Within Germany, Studio Babelsberg in the greater Berlin area sets standards in this regard: 21 state-of-the-art studios are located on an impressive 173,000 m² site.

The flexible outdoor sets, such as the Metropolitan Backlot , are stunning. Covering an area of ​​over 15,000 m², four street sections are constructed in different architectural styles – from historic alleyways to futuristic skylines, almost any city in the world can be recreated here.

But even when searching for a film studio in southern Germany, one will find extensive production areas and facilities.

Greenscreen and coves

Special effects without greenscreens? Hardly imaginable today. Studio Babelsberg boasts one of the largest greenscreen walls in Europe, measuring an impressive 660 m². The lateral cove at the end allows for seamless 90-degree lighting – a must for professional effects shots.

Coves, the gentle curves between the wall and floor, are particularly important for full-body shots. They make it significantly easier to cut people out from in front of the green screen. Studios like Black Forest Studios go a step further: They offer flexible roll-out coves in white, gray, or green, allowing for maximum customization.

Make-up area, lounges and gallery

The well-being of the crew is also essential for professional film studios. Makeup areas with ideal lighting are always provided. In Hamburg-Ottensen, Luna Studios a hair and makeup salon with four stations and two reverse washes – a luxury that is reflected in the quality of the shots.

Comfortable lounges create a relaxed atmosphere between takes. At StudioGutenswil, you can see that functionality and comfort go hand in hand: The lounge is designed for up to 20 people, and when the weather is nice, the backyard with its view of apple trees is very inviting.

Recording studio and workshop in film studios

Film mixing with Dolby Atmos , dedicated recording rooms with variable acoustics, and professional dubbing equipment are standard features in modern post-production facilities. Some studios even have 3D audio labs for groundbreaking sound design projects.

The art department at Studio Babelsberg demonstrates what going big really means: Complete sets are created on more than 10,000 m², encompassing carpentry, sculpture, polystyrene and plastics technology, metalwork, and fine art painting. This is the heart of film production – without these workshops, even the boldest visions would remain mere dreams.

Technology behind the lens: Cam Cars and Techno

How do you create the captivating, dynamic camera movements that enthrall us as viewers? Film studios, especially in southern Germany, continuously invest in sophisticated technology that lies behind spectacular shots.

Deployed electric camera vehicle

The CINECAR is a state-of-the-art camera vehicle. Electric drives enable silent and vibration-free filming. Thanks to the integrated lift column, precise camera movements are possible while driving, adding dynamism to the footage. Compared to conventional boom systems, this compact solution is quicker to set up and can easily navigate narrow streets and dense urban areas.

If one considers the narrow canyons of buildings in historic city centers such as Munich, Regensburg, Nuremberg or Augsburg, then these specific advantages quickly become apparent.

SuperTechno 30: The telescopic crane

the SuperTechno 30 achieves perspectives that would otherwise be impossible. Whether handwheels, joystick, or directional pad – the controls can be adapted to the cameraman's preferences. The crane can effortlessly transport cameras weighing up to 35 kilograms at speeds of up to 2.8 meters per second.

Some of the most impressive scenes in blockbusters like "Titanic" , "Pearl Harbor" and "Harry Potter" are thanks to such a crane.

Low loader for moving shots

With a low loader, realistic driving scenes are possible without limitations. The camera is securely mounted on the trailer while the vehicle being filmed is towed. This allows the actors to fully concentrate on their performance while the movement is realistic.

Special constructions for tailor-made needs

The Scorpio arm represents ultimate flexibility on four wheels. Mounted on a 510 hp Mercedes ML63 AMG, the arm has a 3.5-meter-long boom that can be extended to 5.6 meters. Its TÜV-certified maximum speed of 149 km/h allows for breathtaking chase scenes.

MAGAMO vehicles (make-up, wardrobe and mobile offices) are the flexible solutions for every film set.

Truss rig and static solutions

Not everything needs to be constantly moving. In challenging terrain or under special conditions, truss systems stable foundations for camera setups. These modular structures are individually adaptable and offer maximum stability with minimal setup time – sometimes consistency is the key to a flawless image.

Action and special effects: This is how suspense is created in film studios

Spectacular action scenes are the result of hard work. Every adrenaline-fueled sequence is the product of a delicate interplay between safety protocols and a creative vision. Professional film studios specialize in shooting even the riskiest scenes under controlled conditions.

Coordination of stunts and safety

All high-risk scenes in a production fall under the responsibility of the stunt coordinator . In their role as head of the stunt department, they create impressive sequences of movements, but their primary task is to ensure the safety of everyone involved. They develop comprehensive risk management strategies that include emergency plans and medical precautions. The fee, which ranges from 900 to 1100 euros per day, reflects the significant responsibility of this position.

Fire, high-altitude and body stunts

Fire stunts are among the most visually impressive effects. Professional stunt performers use skin-friendly flame retardants and specialized protective clothing. For high-altitude stunts such as controlled falls, abseiling devices, crash pads, and sophisticated safety systems are necessary. Before every shoot, each element is meticulously checked in the film studios – nevertheless, a residual risk always remains.

Vehicle stunts and chases

The car chase in “Mad Max: Fury Road” caused a 33 percent increase in heart rate during the test audience. Special technicians prepare the vehicles for such sequences with immense care. In “The Italian Job,” Mini Coopers were deliberately used instead of high-performance vehicles—a creative choice that enabled extraordinary car chases.

Fight choreography and rigging

Fight sequences are created through detailed choreography. Stunt coordinators work closely with directors to create action scenes that seamlessly integrate into the plot. Rigging systems , which are specialized rope constructions, allow for complex movements without compromising safety.

Underwater stunts and special effects

Underwater filming is among the riskiest stunt categories. For “Mission: Impossible 8,” Tom Cruise had to go underwater in a custom-made suit with a light-up mask. The diving equipment allowed him to stay underwater for a maximum of ten minutes before his body suffered from oxygen deprivation.

Extreme challenges require specialized security teams that monitor every step.

Film Studio Southern Germany: Collaboration of absolute experts

Various stakeholders must work together like the proverbial cogs of a fine machine for spectacular productions to succeed. In the film industry of southern Germany, artistic ambitions and economic necessities are now intertwined, even outside of Berlin – a balancing act that demands the utmost professionalism.

Directing and production: an essential collaboration

The film producer decides on the realization of projects and bears financial responsibility from the initial idea to the theatrical release. The director is responsible for the artistic direction. A trusting collaboration is essential for this division of responsibilities. The producer coordinates content-related and organizational aspects, finds solutions to delays, and ensures that the project stays on track.

Three stages, one goal

A film production always follows a proven three-step process. In pre-production , the concepts are developed, filming locations are secured, and permits are obtained. During the production phase , the actual filming takes place, either on location or in film studios. In post-production, the raw footage is transformed into the finished product through editing, sound design, and effects.

Film studios: an industry between art and vision of the future

Film studios in southern Germany have developed into a remarkable success story. The key factors for this success are not primarily the impressive equipment and spacious production areas – rather, it is the daily interplay of innovation and experience that makes these studios so valuable for an increasing number of film and television productions.

Studios combine state-of-the-art technology with years of expertise and experience. They offer far more than just providing space: as creative partners, they transform complex visions into tangible reality.

But the real power lies with the people. Stunt coordinators who perfectly master the interplay of safety and spectacle. Camera operators who capture moving moments with sophisticated technology. Craftsmen who create outer space in workshops. All these people are responsible for turning an idea into a film that touches millions.