Location Inspiration: SOUTH AFRICA
Why Shoot in South Africa?
South Africa is truly a production utopia! As one of the world's leading production destinations, it boasts a well-established film and production services industry, renowned for its experience with international projects—ranging from commercials and stills to Hollywood blockbusters. One of South Africa’s strongest appeals is its versatility. Within a two-hour drive from any major city, you can find locations that replicate almost anywhere in the world. From lush beaches to rugged mountains, South Africa’s southern hemisphere climate offers year-round shooting opportunities.
A weak currency, the Rand, makes production costs incredibly favorable, allowing for higher production values. Add in internationally acclaimed crews, a diverse talent pool (further expanded by international models during summer), and the country’s unbeatable hospitality, and it’s easy to see why South Africa is an irresistible destination for filmmakers.
About Moonlighting: A Proudly Diverse and Women-Owned Company
Moonlighting is at the forefront of South Africa’s production landscape, proudly women and diverse-owned, and driven by a dynamic leadership team. The company is run by three partners:
Beccy Kellond (Marketing): Originally from the UK, Beccy has a background in brand consultancy and a degree in Russian. She came to South Africa 20 years ago on a holiday, fell in love with the country, and never left. Her passion for South Africa and her marketing expertise make her an invaluable asset to Moonlighting.
Shayne Brookstein (Executive Producer): Shayne is an accomplished professional in the world of production, with extensive experience across all aspects of the industry, from long-form TV and documentaries to director-based and serviced commercials. Highly respected by South African crews, Shayne’s expertise, dedication, and calm problem-solving approach inspire confidence and trust in producers from all over the world.
Nolan Roussouw (Finance): Nolan brings over 25 years of experience in financial management to Moonlighting. As a Chartered Accountant, he manages all aspects of the company’s finances with unswerving calm and logic, ensuring that every production runs smoothly from a financial standpoint.
A Land of Endless Variety
When asked about the qualities of South Africa, it’s impossible to narrow it down to just one. The country offers everything—stunning locations, exceptional crews, world-class suppliers, and a vibrant tourism infrastructure that makes downtime just as exciting as the work itself.
Top Locations to Consider:
South Africa’s landscapes are as diverse as they are breathtaking. You’ll find:
Beaches: Pristine coastlines that rival the Caribbean.
Mountains: Dramatic ranges perfect for adventure settings.
Cityscapes: Bustling urban centers like Cape Town that offer a variety of architectural styles, from colonial to modern.
Rural Beauty: Lush farmlands, serene lakes, rolling rivers, and expansive sand dunes.
Roads and Streets: All types of streets and roads, from scenic coastal highways to tree-lined avenues and vibrant city streets.
Studios: Including the globally renowned Cape Town Film Studios.
These elements combined make South Africa a location chameleon, capable of standing in for almost any global backdrop.
Cape Town: The Star of the Show
If you're looking for the most popular production spot, Cape Town takes the crown. Its wide variety of locations, film-friendly infrastructure, and accessibility make it the go-to choice for international commercials and films alike. Whether you need a beach, a city skyline, or rolling countryside, Cape Town delivers.
Perfect Climate for Filming
In South Africa, summer arrives when Europe and North America cool down. From October to April, the country enjoys temperatures between 23°C and 30°C, with up to 14 hours of daylight—ideal for extended shooting schedules. Though the country is temperate year-round, this period is the high season for production.
Seamless Permits and Visas
Many international visitors, including those from Europe, the USA, and Japan, benefit from South Africa’s visa-exempt status. For these visitors, production companies like Moonlighting can provide a letter of authority to streamline the process. For those from non-exempt countries, Moonlighting offers support to ensure all paperwork is handled smoothly.
A World-Class Production Hub
South Africa has long been a hub for international productions of all sizes. The country’s infrastructure supports everything from commercials to feature films, with a wide range of equipment, casting agencies, and studio spaces available. Cape Town Film Studios, for instance, offers world-class facilities and is home to cutting-edge tech, such as LED Volume studios.
Some recent highlights include ROM (Royal Ontario Museum), one of the recent larger commercial productions we’ve shot, and Stella Artois, for which we completed the largest recent set build. Both projects showcase the country's diverse landscapes and skilled production capabilities.
A particularly impressive example is the Subway project, where Cape Town doubled for a wide variety of global locations including Vietnam, India, Cuba, Argentina, the USA, the Middle East, Italy, and Tibet. This project underscores Cape Town’s ability to replicate almost any environment in the world. You can view the Subway commercial here:
Beyond its technical advantages, understanding the local culture and logistics can greatly enhance the overall production experience.
Insider Tips: Dos, Don’ts, and Hidden Gems
Every region has its unique cultural nuances, and South Africa is no exception. When working here, it's essential to respect the country’s rich cultural diversity, especially regarding language and local customs. A key tip for international crews: approach with openness and curiosity, and you’ll be welcomed with warmth and friendliness.
Cape Town is the preferred hub for international shoots, offering a variety of high-quality accommodations that cater to different needs. Whether you’re seeking luxury or a more boutique experience, the city provides excellent options to ensure your team is comfortable and well-rested.
For dining, Cape Town is a culinary hotspot. The city boasts numerous world-class restaurants, including the renowned The Pot Luck Club and La Colombe, where you can enjoy everything from innovative cuisine to traditional South African flavors. The Oranjezicht Farmers Market is also a must-visit for those who appreciate fresh, local food in a vibrant setting.
Must-See Attractions and Experiences
Even with a tight production schedule, try to carve out time for some iconic South African experiences. A visit to Table Mountain offers breathtaking views and serves as a stunning backdrop for shoots. Robben Island, where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned, provides a poignant historical perspective, while Boulders Beach is home to a delightful penguin colony that’s perfect for a unique, nature-filled day trip.
To truly immerse yourself in local culture, don’t miss out on a traditional South African Braai (BBQ)—a culinary experience that’s as much about the food as it is about community and sharing.
Production Benefits
There are several production-friendly advantages to filming in South Africa. The City of Cape Town is particularly accommodating to filmmakers, offering a very film-friendly environment where lock-offs and road closures can be organized over weekends as needed. Permitting in general is straightforward, though some of the National Park areas may require a bit more time for approval.
Additionally, the weak Rand enhances production value, making South Africa a cost-effective choice without sacrificing quality. The country also offers tax rebates and incentives for larger long-form productions, further adding to the financial benefits of shooting here.
Cape Town Film Studios leads the pack, with numerous backlots and high-tech options like LED Volume studios. South Africa also offers world-class production designers, stunt teams, and the latest in equipment. Moonlighting even has its own Bolt system at partner company Grinder Studios for precision shots.
Final Thoughts: Why South Africa Should Be Your Next Filming Destination
South Africa offers an unmatched combination of diverse locations, experienced crews, and favorable production conditions. With world-class facilities, a variety of landscapes that can stand in for nearly any global backdrop, and financial incentives that maximize production value, it’s no wonder filmmakers from around the world choose South Africa. At Moonlighting, we’re dedicated to showcasing the very best that our country has to offer, from stunning landscapes to cutting-edge technology. Whether you’re planning a commercial, a feature film, or any other production, South Africa has everything you need to bring your vision to life. We’re ready to help you make it happen—let South Africa be the backdrop for your next great project.
Learn more about shooting in South Africa with Moonlighting