RioFilme, one of Latin America’s largest city-backed audiovisual funds, is accelerating efforts to position Rio de Janeiro as a global hub for film and TV production. The organization recently debuted at Cannes’ Marché du Film and is launching a stand at Rio2C, Latin America’s top creativity event, from May 27 to June 1.
Partnering with São Paulo-based Quanta, which is investing $15 million to expand Rio’s Polo Rio Cine Video complex to 15 studios by 2026, RioFilme will showcase new technologies like virtual production and motion capture at the event. The box office hit The Rogue’s Trial will be featured as a key case study.
RioFilme will also announce a R$100 million ($18 million USD) incentive package to support local production. “We’re looking for the ‘Lady Gaga of audiovisual’,” said RioFilme President Leonardo Edde, referencing the massive Copacabana concert that drew global attention. “Rio is ready to host major Hollywood-level productions.”
One top priority is attracting Netflix’s upcoming series The Boys From Brazil, starring Jeremy Strong and produced by The Crown’s Peter Morgan. Edde confirmed Rio is actively pursuing the project.
In 2024, Rio surpassed Paris in production volume with 8,782 filming days, and held 80% of Brazil’s market share in early 2025. “Our goal is to surpass Madrid’s record of 12,000 shoot days,” Edde said, highlighting the city’s investment in training young audiovisual technicians.
Rio also offers a cash rebate of up to 35% for foreign productions, introduced in 2022. According to Edde, the program has delivered a return of nearly 700% and continues to grow.
Despite its local focus, RioFilme is expanding globally. Talks are underway to bring MipTV to Rio after its departure from Cannes. Edde also aims to revive the Rio Film Festival as a major international event.
“We want Rio to be seen as a global audiovisual reference,” Edde said. “This is Brazil’s moment.”
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