Woody Allen begins filming 51st movie in Madrid

American filmmaker Woody Allen has chosen Madrid as the setting for his 51st feature film, with production beginning this month as the Spanish capital seeks to establish itself as a major international filmmaking hub, AFP reported.

On Wednesday, dozens of curious onlookers gathered in the bustling streets of central Madrid to catch a glimpse of the 90-year-old director, as several roads were closed to traffic for filming, CE Report quotes AGERPRES.

Allen, known for his comedies and social satire, has increasingly worked outside the United States in recent years.

The filmmaker has faced longstanding allegations of sexual abuse made by Dylan Farrow, the adopted daughter of Allen and his former partner Mia Farrow. Allen has denied the allegations and has not faced criminal charges in connection with them.

The controversy has significantly affected his standing within the American film industry, with many former collaborators distancing themselves from the director.

Allen, who has been married to Soon-Yi Previn, another of Mia Farrow’s adopted daughters, since 1997, has also largely withdrawn from major industry events in recent years.

Madrid provides setting for new film

Speaking at a press conference in early October, Allen praised Madrid’s architecture and atmosphere, explaining why he selected the Spanish capital for his latest production.

“I have always considered Madrid a very elegant and beautiful city, perfectly suited to the diplomatic atmosphere I wanted for this story,” he said.

The filmmaker, whose career spans six decades, has directed acclaimed films including Annie Hall (1977), Manhattan (1979) and Midnight in Paris (2011).

He has won four Academy Awards throughout his career.

Allen also expressed his admiration for European cities, describing them as exotic because of their wide boulevards, tree-lined streets and historic architecture.

He contrasted these features with American cities, particularly New York, where many of his earlier films were set and produced.

Film expected to boost Madrid’s economy

For Madrid, which has increasingly positioned itself as a destination for major cultural and sporting events, hosting Allen’s production represents an opportunity to attract additional tourism and investment.

The Madrid City Council is contributing financially to the film, whose title is required to include the word “Madrid.”

According to municipal authorities, the production is expected to generate approximately 1,200 direct jobs and nearly 2,300 indirect jobs.

The audiovisual industry accounts for 2.2% of the Madrid region’s gross domestic product, highlighting its growing importance to the local economy.

Authorities reported that approximately 2,100 film shoots took place across the region in 2025.

Madrid has also strengthened its international profile by hosting major sporting and entertainment events.

Earlier this year, the Spanish capital hosted a Formula 1 Grand Prix for the first time in decades, alongside highly anticipated concerts by international stars including Shakira and Bad Bunny.

City officials hope that attracting internationally recognized filmmakers and large-scale productions will further reinforce Madrid’s position as a leading destination for cinema, culture and tourism.

Photo: Instagram/woodyallenofficial