The iconic imagery of ‘The Mummy’ franchise—vast Egyptian deserts, ancient tombs, and the Nile River—is being reimagined. Director Lee Cronin’s upcoming supernatural horror film, ‘The Mummy,’ is making a bold creative decision by moving its primary filming locations to the lush landscapes of Ireland and the diverse terrains of Spain. This strategic shift not only promises a fresh take on the classic tale but also shines a spotlight on two of Europe’s premier filmmaking destinations.
A New Direction for a Legendary Franchise
Historically, ‘The Mummy’ films have been intrinsically linked to Egypt. From the 1932 Universal classic to the blockbuster Brendan Fraser trilogy, the setting was as crucial as the titular character. However, Cronin’s new vision, with principal photography scheduled from March to June 2025, deliberately steps away from tradition. The move suggests a focus on a different kind of horror, perhaps one that thrives on atmospheric dread and claustrophobia rather than epic desert adventures. This change is not just a narrative choice but also a reflection of modern global filmmaking logistics, where tax incentives and studio infrastructure play a pivotal role.
Ireland: Crafting Claustrophobic Terror
The heart of the film’s interior shooting is Ardmore Studios in County Wicklow, Ireland. Known as the “Garden of Ireland,” Wicklow’s scenic beauty belies its capacity to host world-class productions. Ardmore Studios has been a cornerstone of the Irish film industry for decades, providing the controlled environment necessary for building the tense, close-quarters atmosphere described for the new film.
Ireland’s appeal extends beyond its studios. The country’s Section 481 Film Tax Credit offers a generous incentive of up to 32% on eligible expenditures, making it a financially attractive location for major studios. This has helped position Ireland as a major hub for productions like ‘Vikings,’ ‘The Green Knight,’ and ‘Braveheart,’ which have showcased its versatile landscapes to global audiences.
Spain: A Canvas of Diverse Exteriors
While Ireland provides the film’s core interiors, Spain is being utilized for its expansive and varied exterior locations. From the arid regions of Almería, famously used in classic Westerns, to the historic architecture of Andalusia and the rugged coastlines of the north, Spain offers a rich palette for filmmakers. This allows the production to create a unique visual scope that is both grand and grounded in a European context, moving away from the expected Egyptian backdrop.
Spain also boasts a competitive tax incentive program, offering rebates of up to 30% on the mainland and an even more enticing 50-54% in the Canary Islands. This, combined with its experienced crews and reliable climate, has made it a go-to destination for high-profile projects like ‘Game of Thrones’ and ‘The Crown.’
The Future Impact: A Boost for “Set-Jetting”
The decision to film in Ireland and Spain is poised to have a significant impact on tourism in these regions. The phenomenon of “set-jetting,” where fans travel to visit the filming locations of their favorite movies and TV shows, is a powerful driver of local economies.
Northern Ireland, for example, experienced a massive tourism boom thanks to ‘Game of Thrones,’ with some estimates suggesting it generated over £250 million in economic impact for the region since 2010. Visitors flock to see the real-life locations for Winterfell and the Kingsroad. A high-profile reboot like ‘The Mummy’ could easily spark a similar interest in County Wicklow and the specific Spanish landscapes featured in the film.
For travelers, this presents an exciting new opportunity. Instead of a mummy-themed trip to Egypt, fans may soon be planning tours through the Irish countryside and exploring remote corners of Spain, tracing the footsteps of this new horror icon. This film could redefine the visual identity of ‘The Mummy’ for a new generation, and in doing so, put its chosen European locations firmly on the global travel map.
