In the world of cinema, the location manager is the person who—among other tasks—handles location scouting, proposing the most suitable places to the director and producers for organizing their sets, working closely with the set designer.

Many scenes are filmed indoors—such as in shops, apartments, or other buildings—that are specifically arranged to make the setting true to the historical period, atmosphere, and the story being told, sometimes with the help of technology during post-production. Alternatively, filming can take place outdoors, such as on city streets. In this case, post-production can be used to make an Italian city unrecognizable, transforming it into something else, or to “age” it artificially, taking it back in time to match the setting of the story.

However, often, especially if the required intervention is very significant, a more neutral location might be preferred, such as a large theatrical stage, a multifunctional hall, or an empty pavilion, where the required setting for the film can be recreated. This is also true for high-tech films, such as those set in the future or those requiring numerous special effects, like superhero sagas.

Essential Features

To be suitable as a film set, a location must have some essential characteristics useful for any type of film, such as:

• the availability of spaces and facilities that allow for easy loading and unloading of setup materials
• vast parking lots in the nearby area
• a powerful electrical load must be available
• some versatile, modular spaces to set up both the actual set—which may benefit from having a stage, although this is not strictly necessary—and the auxiliary spaces, such as dressing rooms and areas dedicated to catering for the crew, actors, and workers involved
• proximity to other possible locations for the film, such as apartments and streets in the historic center.