Tel Aviv’s Thriving Film Industry and Celebrity Sightings

As all the locals know, it’s not unusual to spot celebrities in Tel Aviv. Many famous Hollywood stars love the non-stop city and some– including Gal Gadot and Bar Rafaeli– even claim it is their second home. It’s also not unusual to sit at a sidewalk cafe alongside famous Israelis, such as writer Edgar Keret or his wife, filmmaker Shira Geffen, or her brother, the well-known singer, Aviv Geffen.    

 

In fact, seeing famous people around town is nothing new. The film industry in Tel Aviv has been flourishing for decades. Thanks to the city’s vibrant culture, rich history, and beautiful architecture, it has attracted artists and filmmakers since its inception. From the golden age of Israeli cinema to modern-day blockbusters, Tel Aviv has been the backdrop for many famous movies and TV shows. 

 

If you’re interested in booking a celebrity sighting trip or a longer term stay for a few weeks, check out our 2 bedroom apartments with balconies in Tel Aviv. What better way to see your favorite film stars or local Israeli icons than from your own private balcony? And with so many films on location, you never know who you may spot. Sacha Baron Cohen has been several times for various films.

 

One of the most famous movies filmed in Tel Aviv is “The Band’s Visit,” a heartwarming story of an Egyptian police band that gets stranded in a small Israeli town. The film was a critical success, winning several awards, including the Cannes Film Festival’s ‘Un Certain Regard’ prize. Another notable movie set in Tel Aviv is “Jellyfish,” a poetic tale written by the aforementioned Shira Geffen about three women whose lives intersect on the city’s beaches.

 

Tel Aviv has also been the inspiration for many TV shows, such as the acclaimed drama series “Fauda.” The show, which follows an Israeli special forces unit as they hunt down a Hamas operative, has gained a massive following both in Israel and abroad. Other popular shows set in Tel Aviv include “Shtisel,” a family drama about an ultra-Orthodox Jewish community, and “Srugim,” a romantic comedy set in the city’s religious neighborhoods.

 

Of course, Tel Aviv’s film industry is not limited to Israeli productions. Major Hollywood studios have also shot movies in the city, such as “You Don’t Mess with the Zohan,” a comedy starring Adam Sandler as an Israeli commando turned hairstylist, and “Munich,” a political thriller about the aftermath of the 1972 Olympic Games massacre. In recent years, Tel Aviv has become a popular location for international TV productions, with Netflix’s hit series “Fauda” being just one example. 

 

Speaking of Netflix, the streaming giant has been investing heavily in Tel Aviv’s film industry in recent years. In addition to “Fauda,” the company has produced several Israeli originals, including “Shtisel,” “When Heroes Fly,” and “The Spy” – although none of them were actually filmed in Tel Aviv.  “Homeland,” “Tyrant,” and the miniseries “The Promise” were filmed in Israel and the industry has become so popular there’s even a website in English dedicated to helping filmmakers from abroad obtain the necessary permits.

 

In fact, the city of Tel Aviv has an entire page dedicated to explaining the process for getting permits to film. It’s relatively simple to get permission and the available backdrops provide interesting and diverse cultural scenery. According to the municipality, the variety within the city is a major attraction. They write:

 

The city enjoys a diversity of landscapes: old neighborhoods from the 40’s alongside new buildings and modern construction, pastoral parks, public squares, Neve Tzedek, the alleys of Old Jaffa, Sarona compound, Yarkon Beach, estuary space, many kilometers of white sand beaches, public gardens and much more.

 

The influx of film productions has also brought an increase in demand for high-quality furnished business apartments that cater to longer stays, like three months or more. Corporate housing companies are abundant, but not all of them are equal. At TLV2GO, we offer superb accommodation for corporate travelers seeking prime locations, fabulous amenities and concierge service.  Whether you’re coming to shoot a film and need a home for several months or you’re on a quick trip to spot celebrities, we’ve got the perfect accommodation for you.  

 

If you’re a film lover planning a trip to Tel Aviv, you’re in luck. The city offers plenty of opportunities to immerse yourself in its rich cinematic history. One must-visit spot is the Tel Aviv Cinematheque, a cultural institution that hosts screenings of classic and contemporary films from around the world. The Cinematheque also hosts film festivals throughout the year, such as the DocAviv Documentary Film Festival and the LGBT Film Festival.

 

For a more immersive experience, you can take a film-themed tour of the city. Several local companies offer guided tours that take you to the locations of famous movies and TV shows, as well as hidden spots that you might not find on your own. 

 

The film industry in Tel Aviv is a vibrant and exciting part of the city’s culture. Whether you’re a casual moviegoer or a die-hard film buff, there’s plenty to discover and explore in this dynamic city. 

 

If you plan to come for a short vacation or you’re on a long film production for six weeks or more, check out our range of high-end sublets in Tel Aviv. You’ll find various prices and sizes built to accommodate every traveler’s need, including prime locations and comfortable furnishings. 

 

So if you’re into film, Tel Aviv is a hot destination. And who knows? You may even rub shoulders with the likes of Sacha Baron Cohen. So why not book a ticket and experience Tel Aviv for yourself? Hollywood certainly has.