Narcos Ibiza Filming Faces Local Government Pushback
Sky’s Narcos Ibiza series encounters resistance from Consell de Ibiza over filming permissions.
The production of Sky’s latest series, Narcos Ibiza, has met with significant challenges on the idyllic island. The Consell de Ibiza has declined to collaborate, affecting the series’ ability to film on location. This development raises questions about the future of filming projects on the island and their impact on Ibiza’s image.
Consell de Ibiza Rejects Collaboration
Lack of Support for Filming
Sky’s documentary series, Narcos Ibiza, premiered in July but struggled to secure local support. Juan Miguel Costa, the island’s Tourism Promotion Director, revealed at the X Congress of Holiday Homes that the Consell did not grant the necessary permits for outdoor filming. Consequently, production had to relocate to the Levante region, simulating Ibiza’s backdrop.
Impact on Local Filming Regulations
Costa explained, “We declined to participate after reviewing the project. We couldn’t approve outdoor filming permits, forcing the team to shoot elsewhere.” The Consell emphasized that while they do not prohibit filming on Ibiza, they choose projects that align with the island’s marketing strategy.
Previous Filming Challenges on Ibiza
White Lines Filmed in Mallorca
Ibiza has a history of production challenges. The Netflix series White Lines (2020) also faced difficulties, ultimately filming in Mallorca instead. This pattern suggests a recurring issue with securing local support for productions portraying Ibiza.
Narcos Ibiza’s Filming Alternatives
For Narcos Ibiza, the absence of Consell’s support meant filming had to adapt. The production utilized private establishments where filming is permitted, but this limited their ability to authentically capture Ibiza’s unique scenery.
About Narcos Ibiza
Series Overview
Narcos Ibiza is a three-episode miniseries blending documentary and dramatization elements. It explores drug trafficking routes in Ibiza from the 1970s to the 2000s, featuring testimonies from key figures like Jon Imanol Sapieha, known as El Sapo, and party promoter Wayne Anthony.
Production and Reception
Produced by Blast Films, the series is available on Sky, Prime Video, Apple TV, and Movistar+. Critics have given mixed reviews, praising its documentary value while critiquing its dramatized scenes.
Future of Filming in Ibiza
Consell’s Filming Criteria
The Consell de Ibiza outlined that future productions must align with the island’s marketing plan and positively reflect its diverse tourist segments. Projects that do not meet these criteria may continue to face challenges in securing local support.
Promoting Ibiza’s True Image
Discussions highlight the importance of promoting Ibiza’s authentic image. Representatives argue that negative portrayals can distort public perception, emphasizing the need for responsible and supportive filming practices.
The Narcos Ibiza filming controversy underscores the delicate balance between attracting media projects and preserving Ibiza’s reputation. As the island continues to navigate these challenges, the relationship between local authorities and production companies will play a crucial role in shaping its future image.
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