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The invisible heroes of the film industry: no filming without lifting machines

The success of a film shoot lies not only in the work of the stars, directors, costume and make-up designers, or cinematographers. Behind the scenes, there are also tools and professionals without whom no scene could be realized. Over the past two decades, Hungary has become one of the international film industry’s favorite filming locations—and mateco’s personnel lifts and loading lifts also play a role in this.

Why Hungary? – Film industry hub in the region

Hungary is ideal for the film industry not only as a backdrop, but also as a complete production environment. Tax breaks, fast licensing, and professional crews are all factors that make it easier for international productions to choose Hungary as a location.

World-class studios

In world-class studios such as Origo Studios, Korda Studios (Etyek "Etyekwood"), Mafilm (Budapest–Fót), as well as Astra, Stern, and Lloyd, work never stops.

Spectacular sets and locations

With the construction of New York streets in Etyek, Renaissance city centers, and medieval villages, they can transport viewers anywhere.

Professional service companies

Large production companies – Mid Atlantic, Pioneer, Heroes Squared, Paprika – are responding quickly to changes, even reorganizing their lifting machines support.

It is no coincidence that such large-scale productions as Blade Runner 2049, Dune I–II, Alien: Romulus, and Hellboy II were filmed here. These films not only placed their trust in Hungarian locations, but also in the local professionals and the technology available here.

Behind every spectacular scene, there is always a technical background. No camera position or spotlight can be put in place without someone lifting it there safely and precisely. This is where the use of personnel lifts and forklifts becomes indispensable. Our film industry specialists select the most suitable machines from mateco’s fleet for the crews:

for safely lifting lighting reflectors and cameras to heights, both indoors and outdoors.

for servicing hard-to-reach sets and camera positions.

precise, powerful solutions for moving sets and equipment, even on difficult terrain.

With its mateco 2500 machine, its own transport service and film industry experts, it supports film crews exactly when they need it most. This is the kind of support that ensures creative ideas are not held back by technical implementation.

Flexibility and quick response – the rhythm of the film industry

One of the peculiarities of film shoots is unpredictability. A single bad weather report, a sick lead actor, or an unexpected change of location can completely disrupt the production schedule.

For example, a desert scene is planned to be shot in the Fót sand mine, but due to rain, it is shot in the Szabó Ervin Library instead. The next day, two scissor lifts are needed for the cameramen at the Nádasladány Castle.

In situations like these, mateco proves its flexibility. The dedicated film liaison knows the pace of the industry, unexpected situations, and tight deadlines, so they are able to adapt to the changing needs of the crew. Without this quick response, many shoots would simply fail.

Occupational safety – the invisible safety net of film shoots

While viewers sit in front of the screen feeling excited or laughing, safety is paramount on set. The film industry has the same strict occupational safety regulations as the construction industry:

  • machine operator licenses, load checks, wearing protective equipment,
  • professional installation of electrical equipment, and safe placement of cables.

mateco provides digitally accessible documentation and up-to-date test certificates for all lifting equipment. This is important not only for official compliance, but also because the physical well-being of crew members is essential for creative work to proceed without disruption.

Innovation in the service of the film industry – 24/7 Plug & Play machine rental

International productions in Hungary often work to tight deadlines. That is why mateco has introduced its latest innovation in the film industry, which is specifically designed to support the flexibility and speed of crews.

The essence of the system is a pre-selected fleet of machines available at the production site, which the crew can use immediately – let’s see why it’s really worth it!

Efficiency

No waiting, the machine is ready to use right away.

Cost reduction

Only the delivery and shipping fees remain.

Time savings

No need to constantly make phone calls and organize things.

Flexibility

The machines are available exactly where the crew is working.

This service is like having your own fleet of machines for your production—but without the maintenance costs. It’s a new level of collaboration where technology truly serves art.

The close alliance between the film industry and mateco

The Hungarian film industry welcomes international productions with world-class infrastructure, professional experts, and diverse locations. Mateco ensures that personnel lifts, loading lifts, and other work machines are always available safely, quickly, and flexibly.

Mateco – with us, the film industry is sure to rise.