Peter Jackson’s Next Stop: Malta for Tintin

Imagine this: the rolling hills of Malta, not Middle-earth, under the gaze of a renowned director. It’s 2010, and Peter Jackson, the man who brought us the epic ‘Lord of the Rings’ trilogy, is not scouting for hobbits but for a young reporter, Tintin. Yes, you read it right. The island’s unique landscapes were about to become the backdrop for another iconic literary character’s cinematic journey.

Jackson chose Malta as a location for ‘The Adventures of Tintin: The Secret of the Unicorn’. The island’s diverse landscapes, from the rugged Dingli Cliffs to the charming streets of Mdina, served as the perfect stand-in for various European locations. The historic city of Valletta even doubled as 1950s Brussels. The production team transformed the Upper Barrakka Gardens into a bustling market scene, complete with vintage cars and period costumes.

But why Malta? “It’s the variety of locations we can find here,” said producer Barry Mendel in an interview. “We can go from a bustling city to a quiet countryside, all within a short drive. And the weather is reliable, which is crucial for a production schedule.”

The Tintin production brought more than just a Hollywood touch to Malta. It also sparked a cultural exchange. Local actors and extras got to work alongside international stars like Jamie Bell and Andy Serkis. The crew even organized workshops for local film students, sharing insights into the world of big-budget filmmaking.

the production left a lasting impact on Malta’s film industry. It was one of the first major productions to utilize the island’s new film incentives, which offer cash rebates for international productions. This move has since attracted many other international film and TV projects to Malta.

Today, you can still spot Tintin’s influence around Malta. The production left behind a few Easter eggs, like a small Tintin mural in Valletta’s St. John’s Co-Cathedral. And every October, the Malta Comic Con pays homage to the boy reporter with a dedicated Tintin zone.

After Tintin, Jackson returned to Middle-earth for ‘The Hobbit’ trilogy. But Malta remains on his radar. In 2019, he was spotted on the island, fueling speculation about another production. While nothing has been confirmed, the director’s love for Malta’s unique landscapes and film-friendly environment suggests we might see him back here soon.

For now, Malta continues to capitalize on its film-friendly status. The island has become a popular filming location for TV shows like ‘Game of Thrones’ and films like ‘By the Sea’ starring Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt. With its diverse landscapes, reliable weather, and attractive incentives, Malta is set to continue its role as a star player in the international film scene.