Ouarzazate: Filming Location for Ben Kingsley’s The Old Stories: Moses

The buzz surrounding Amazon’s upcoming biblical epic, “The Old Stories: Moses,” starring Ben Kingsley, isn’t just echoing through Hollywood; it’s resonating in the film industry’s global production hubs. And for those of us in Austin, Texas, a city rapidly becoming a major player in film and television production itself, the choice of Morocco as a primary filming location offers a fascinating case study in modern blockbuster filmmaking. It’s a reminder that recreating ancient worlds often requires looking far beyond the actual historical locations, and a testament to the logistical and economic factors driving these decisions.

Morocco’s Rise as a Biblical Epic Destination

As reported by multiple sources, including Barlamantoday.com and 4filming.com, Morocco, specifically the city of Ouarzazate, has become a cornerstone for “The Old Stories: Moses.” Ouarzazate, often dubbed the “Hollywood of the Desert,” boasts Atlas Studios, a facility already equipped with extensive sets built for previous historical epics like “Gladiator” and “Kingdom of Heaven.” This pre-existing infrastructure significantly reduces production costs and logistical hurdles. The series, directed by Jon Erwin, isn’t shying away from scale, building massive practical sets to depict Pharaoh’s palace and the living conditions of the Israelites. Even scenes requiring the Nile River are being cleverly realized using Moroccan oases and controlled riverbeds.

Why Not Egypt? The Economics of Epic Filmmaking

The most striking aspect of this production, as highlighted by 4filming.com, is that not a single frame is being shot in Egypt itself. This isn’t unusual. Modern filmmaking is a complex equation balancing artistic vision with budgetary constraints and political stability. Egypt, although historically relevant, presents challenges that Morocco simply doesn’t. These can include permitting difficulties, security concerns, and potentially higher production costs. Morocco offers a stable filming environment, a skilled local crew, and, crucially, a cost-effective alternative. This mirrors a trend seen in other large-scale productions; filmmakers are increasingly prioritizing practicality over strict geographical accuracy.

A Multi-National Production: Beyond Morocco

“The Old Stories: Moses” isn’t solely a Moroccan production. Filming is also taking place in Jordan, Malta, Spain, and the UK. This multi-country approach is becoming increasingly common, allowing production teams to leverage the unique strengths of each location. Jordan offers desert landscapes that complement Morocco’s, while Malta and Spain provide different architectural styles and coastal settings. The UK likely serves as a base for post-production and potentially some studio work. This distributed model demonstrates the interconnectedness of the global film industry and the willingness of studios like Amazon MGM Studios and The Wonder Project to invest in international collaborations.

Austin’s Growing Role in the Film Landscape

Here in Austin, we’re witnessing a similar evolution. The Texas Film Commission has been actively incentivizing film and television production, attracting projects that previously would have gone elsewhere. The recent influx of productions has spurred growth in local crew bases, studio facilities, and related industries. While we may not be recreating ancient Egypt anytime soon, Austin’s versatility – from urban landscapes to Hill Country vistas – is making it an attractive location for a diverse range of projects. The University of Texas at Austin’s film program, a nationally recognized institution, is also contributing to the talent pool, ensuring a steady stream of skilled professionals. The Austin Film Society, a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting local filmmakers, plays a vital role in fostering a thriving creative community. The economic impact of these productions is significant, injecting millions of dollars into the local economy and creating numerous jobs.

The Local Resource Guide: Navigating the Impact of Increased Production

Given my background in regional economic development and observing the growth of the film industry in Austin, if this trend of increased production impacts you – whether as a homeowner, business owner, or simply a resident – here are three types of local professionals you might necessitate to engage with:

Location Scouting & Permitting Specialists:

As more productions come to Austin, the demand for skilled location scouts and permitting specialists will increase. Look for professionals with a deep understanding of local regulations, established relationships with property owners, and experience navigating the city’s permitting process. They should be able to efficiently identify suitable locations and secure the necessary approvals.

Production Accounting & Payroll Services:

Film and television productions require specialized accounting and payroll services. Seek out firms with experience in the entertainment industry, familiar with union regulations, and capable of handling complex tax requirements. They should offer accurate and timely financial reporting.

Legal Counsel – Entertainment Law Focus:

Productions often require legal expertise in areas such as contract negotiation, intellectual property rights, and liability insurance. Prioritize attorneys specializing in entertainment law with a proven track record of representing film and television projects. They should be well-versed in the legal complexities of the industry.

Ready to find trusted professionals? Browse our complete directory of top-rated film and entertainment experts in the Austin area today.