by InTrieste
Two high-profile international film productions shot in part in Friuli Venezia Giulia region are set to premiere simultaneously on major streaming platforms next week. Heads of State, an Amazon MGM Studios action film starring Idris Elba, John Cena, and Priyanka Chopra Jonas, will debut on Amazon Prime Video, while The Old Guard 2, a sequel to the 2020 action-fantasy hit, arrives on Netflix.
Both films were made with the support of the Friuli Venezia Giulia Film Commission—PromoTurismoFVG, underscoring the region’s growing appeal as a location for global productions.
Heads of State, directed by Ilya Naishuller (Nobody), was filmed in the summer of 2023 and features Elba as the British Prime Minister and Cena as the President of the United States. The two world leaders, embroiled in a volatile personal and political rivalry, are forced to work together when a global threat emerges. The film blends action with political satire and is positioned as a summer blockbuster for the streaming platform.
The Old Guard 2, produced by Skydance Media and directed by Victoria Mahoney, continues the story of a covert team of immortal mercenaries. Charlize Theron reprises her role alongside newcomers Uma Thurman and Chiwetel Ejiofor, with Italian actor Luca Marinelli also returning to the cast. Several key scenes were shot across various locations in Friuli Venezia Giulia, further cementing the region’s reputation as a versatile and cinematic backdrop.
The release of both films marks another milestone for Friuli Venezia Giulia’s film industry, which has seen increased interest from international studios in recent years due to its diverse landscapes, logistical support, and favorable production conditions.
Heads of State and The Old Guard 2 will be available for streaming worldwide on July 2.
