Villena is preparing for a starring role on the big screen after the producers of People of the Book chose the city as one of the filming locations for the major international movie, which has an estimated budget of €18 million.
The film, based on the acclaimed novel by Pulitzer Prize-winning author Geraldine Brooks, is currently shooting across several locations in Alicante Province. As part of the project, the production team will use Villena’s Castle of Atalaya as a key setting in the historical drama.
Consequently, the project is expected to further strengthen the city’s growing reputation as an attractive destination for film and television productions.
A story bridging centuries
Geraldine Brooks published People of the Book in 2008, and Spanish readers know it as Los guardianes del libro.
The story links modern-day Sarajevo with events rooted in 15th-century Spain. Because of its historical themes, the production requires authentic locations with distinctive architectural character. For that reason, the filmmakers chose Villena’s medieval fortress as one of their principal locations.
In addition, local officials have highlighted the city’s unique combination of historic monuments, urban settings and natural landscapes. Furthermore, Villena sits close to Alicante’s Ciudad de la Luz film studios, allowing production teams to recreate a variety of historical environments while keeping logistics efficient.
Growing importance as a film destination
The project also forms part of a wider effort to attract audiovisual productions to the region.
To support the shoot, representatives from the production company worked closely with local authorities to identify locations and coordinate filming arrangements.
Meanwhile, municipal leaders believe large-scale productions generate benefits that extend beyond the film industry itself. Not only do crews spend money on accommodation, catering and local services, but major productions also raise a destination’s international profile.
As a result, local officials hope the film will encourage more visitors to discover Villena and attract additional productions in the future.
Casting call for extras
Alongside the filming, the production team is seeking hundreds of extras for scenes across Alicante Province.
The organisers welcome applications from men and women of all nationalities. However, because the story takes place in a historical setting, casting directors are particularly interested in people with a natural appearance.
For example, casting directors may favour men with beards or traditional hairstyles. Similarly, they are asking women to avoid highly modern hair colours, styles and cosmetic enhancements that do not fit the period setting.
The production is filming in two phases. The first runs until 28 June and includes Villena, Bocairent, La Vila Joiosa, El Campello, Santa Pola and Alicante.
Afterwards, the crew will move to Alcoy for a second phase running from 29 June until 12 July.
The production company will offer successful applicants formal employment contracts and social security registration. It will also provide transport to filming locations and organise paid costume fittings at Ciudad de la Luz studios.
Cinema and tourism go hand in hand
Ultimately, People of the Book marks another step forward in Villena’s efforts to establish itself as a destination for international productions.
With its rich historical heritage, distinctive architecture and varied landscapes, the city continues to attract filmmakers looking for authentic settings for ambitious projects.
Moreover, local leaders hope the production will generate immediate economic benefits while helping Villena secure an even stronger position on the international filming map.
