Hollywood Producer Eyes Malta (And Gozo) As An Ideal Destination For All Types Of Films
You might not have heard of Oscar Generale before, but some of Hollywood’s biggest names call him their best friend.
The Italian producer who’s given us some great movies such as Speed Kills (starring his mate John Travolta), and The Poison Rose (starring Morgan Freeman) is currently visiting Malta.
We caught up with him to see what he thinks of our island, and -spoiler alert- we were very pleased with his answers!
What’s your favourite thing about Malta?
It’s always huge being back in Malta, and spending time here and in Gozo. There’s a special energy that makes me feel better, positive and I find it very helpful for my work. I can think and concentrate on all my projects, especially the movies. You can’ t imagine how magical it is walking in Valletta city during the night or early in the morning…Lights reflect on the sea and you can lose yourself in thought…
How often have you visited?
I came to Malta and discovered Gozo about six years ago and I went completely crazy about these islands. Beautiful places, amazing services, very clean. And the hospitality I received? Simply AMAZING.
Since then I’ve always spoken very highly of these places upon my return to United States to all my friends, the celebrities as well as the not-so-famous friends.
What are you up to here this time?
I have spoken about these islands to the big studios in Los Angeles, and I’m back in Malta because I absolutely want to shoot big movies here and in Gozo, with big budgets, A-List movie stars, and with worldwide distribution, as the landscapes here are fantastic.
During my stay, I had many different meetings in order to further my project, and I spent time with my friends too.
Are you planning to shoot a project in Malta? What can you tell us about it? Any A-listers?
My project is not only to shoot a big movie but several movies, and I hope that the Government of Malta will support this project because it would increase tourism.
There’s another big dream that I would like to realize soon – I want to open a film school for young people from Malta in order for them to be prepared to join the entertainment industry when big productions arrive.
All movies that I produce have big names, A-List stars, big directors… About the project I am working on now, unfortunately, I can’t say anything yet, because we are still negotiating the lead roles. But one thing’s for sure – you will definitely hear about it.
What do you find attractive about Malta as a film destination?
As I said, the landscapes are amazing, beautiful and perfect for shooting movies. Gozo, for example, always makes me feel like I’m in a very large open-air-studio. I think 80% of production types can be shot between the landscapes of Malta and Gozo: from historical movies to romantic films, but I’m especially excited about action movies. What if James Bond were shot in Malta and Gozo? I’m positive that if we join all forces, we’ll get top results.
Have you met anyone of interest while here?
I came here for business meetings, and I met dear friends like Kenneth Camilleri. I also had the opportunity to personally meet your big Chef Marvin Gauci. Knowing the tastes of American Stars, I’m sure they would go crazy if they tasted his delicious dishes.