American production The Ascent currently being filmed in Malta

March 31 2025 13:46:27 by PCLMedia

The American production The Ascent is currently being filmed in Malta, with a budget exceeding €4 million, significantly contributing to the Maltese film industry. According to a statement from the Ministry for National Heritage, the Arts, and Local Government, the project enhances Malta’s international presence in the global film sector while creating job opportunities for locals. Notably, over three-quarters of the crew—90 members—are Maltese.

Minister for National Heritage, the Arts, and Local Government, Owen Bonnici, along with Film Commissioner Johann Grech, visited the production set at Malta Film Studios. Minister Bonnici also took the opportunity to meet with the staff of the Malta Film Commission during his visit.

Filming will span 23 days and feature key locations, including Malta Film Studios and Miġra l-Ferħa in Dingli. The stunning Maltese landscapes are serving as the perfect backdrop for this thrilling new project, offering a captivating blend of natural beauty and cinematic allure.

Director Adam Green, known for his gripping work in the horror genre, is making his Malta debut with The Ascent. Green, renowned for his ability to blend tension with immersive storytelling, is set to bring a fresh and exciting perspective to the project. His directorial style promises to make The Ascent a must-watch for fans of intense, character-driven narratives.

Joining Green behind the scenes is a talented cast, with actor Gregg Sulkin leading the way. Sulkin, who has made his mark in both television and film, is a rising star whose involvement adds an extra layer of excitement for audiences. His compelling performances in various genres have earned him a devoted fanbase, and The Ascent is poised to further showcase his versatility as an actor.

The film’s story is expected to delve deep into psychological drama, exploring themes of survival, self-discovery, and the human spirit under duress. The stark, dramatic landscapes of Malta, coupled with Green's atmospheric direction, will provide an unsettling yet visually stunning setting for the story.

As The Ascent continues filming, the production is not only enriching the local film industry but also showcasing Malta’s potential as a prime filming destination. The island’s diverse locations, skilled workforce, and state-of-the-art facilities at Malta Film Studios make it an ideal hub for international filmmakers.

Malta has long been a favored location for high-profile film productions, with its rich history and striking landscapes offering an authentic backdrop for diverse cinematic styles. Some of the most famous films shot in Malta include the epic Gladiator (2000), where the island’s ancient architecture and rugged coastline were used to portray the Roman Empire’s grandeur. The critically acclaimed Troy (2004) also made use of Malta’s dramatic scenery, with the island standing in for the ancient city of Troy. More recently, Malta played a key role in the successful Game of Thrones (2011-2019) series, particularly in its first season, where locations like the stunning Azure Window and the fortified Mdina served as iconic settings.

The 2015 Jurassic World blockbuster also filmed some key scenes in Malta, with the island’s diverse landscapes serving as the perfect stand-in for the tropical settings of the fictional Jurassic Park. These notable productions highlight Malta’s capacity to cater to a wide range of film genres, from historical epics to modern-day blockbusters.

The collaboration between the American production of The Ascent and local talents further solidifies Malta's growing reputation as a vibrant player in the global film industry, with promising prospects for the future. The success of The Ascent could pave the way for more international projects to consider Malta for their next big venture, boosting the country’s cultural and economic landscape.

With such an exciting team, compelling story, and breathtaking filming locations, The Ascent is set to be an enthralling cinematic experience that puts both the filmmakers and Malta’s film industry in the global spotlight.