Q&A with Orbis Production global executive producer Mike Lisjak

Regarded as one of Italy's most prolific production service companies, Orbis Production offers film and video production for a wide range of clients - from corporate and commercial to documentaries and events and more across Europe. Clients have ranged from AstraZeneca to Christian Dior Couture, Marriott and Nestle. 

Speaking to KFTV editor Gabriella Geisinger, Orbis Production's global executive producer Mike Lisjak explains how the company's connection to Italy gives it an edge and how each production — from commercials to feature films — is given its unique attention.

What is Orbis Production's mission statement and ethos?

At Orbis Production, our mission is to tell stories that resonate deeply and authentically with audiences around the world. We are passionate about capturing the heart of each narrative, bringing it to life through the rich tapestry of Italy's culture and landscapes.

Our ethos is grounded in authenticity, creativity, and an unwavering commitment to quality. We believe that film has the power to inspire, to challenge perspectives, and to connect people across cultures. By blending traditional craftsmanship with innovative techniques, we strive to create cinematic experiences that leave a lasting impression and contribute meaningfully to the art of storytelling.

What services does your company Orbis Production provide?

We provide a full spectrum of production services designed to meet the unique demands of each project. From crafting compelling TV commercials and engaging online content to developing immersive branded narratives, our expertise covers all facets of visual storytelling.

We handle everything—from the initial concept development and scriptwriting to the final stages of post-production. With our in-house creative agency, we collaborate closely with clients to shape ideas that captivate audiences.

Our casting agency connects projects with top-tier talent, and as the largest equipment rental house in Italy, we supply state-of-the-art technology to bring visions to life. We manage permits, scout breathtaking locations, coordinate logistics and transportation, and ensure every aspect of production runs smoothly.

Whether it's a feature film, a TV series, or a branded content campaign, we are dedicated to delivering excellence at every stage.

What specialist skillsets distinguish Orbis Production from the competition?

Our greatest strength lies in our deep connection to Italy and our ability to unlock its endless possibilities for storytelling.

We have an unparalleled understanding of the country's diverse landscapes, cultures, and the nuances of its regulatory environments. This insight allows us to secure exclusive locations, navigate complex logistics, and infuse each project with an authentic Italian essence that others might miss.

Our team is a blend of seasoned professionals who marry artistic vision with technical expertise. We excel at harmonizing the creative and practical aspects of production, ensuring that every project not only meets but exceeds expectations.

Our commitment to innovation keeps us ahead of industry trends, enabling us to incorporate cutting-edge techniques into our work and deliver productions that are both visually stunning and emotionally resonant.

Have there been recent developments in your region, and what are the benefits of those changes for those potential clients?

Indeed, Italy has become even more attractive to international filmmakers thanks to significant investments in production infrastructure and enhanced financial incentives.

The government offers a tax credit of up to 40% on eligible production costs, without any cap on the project budget. This substantial incentive, combined with regional grants, can greatly reduce overall production expenses.

The modernisation and expansion of studios, especially in Milan and Rome, mean that state-of-the-art facilities are readily available to handle productions of any scale. These developments provide our clients with access to world-class resources while benefiting from cost efficiencies.

Our expertise in navigating these incentives and leveraging the upgraded infrastructure ensures that clients can maximize these advantages seamlessly, allowing them to focus on creating outstanding content.

What is the most challenging element of a production that you have been part of, and how do you overcome those challenges?

One of the most challenging projects we've undertaken involved orchestrating a complex shoot for a high-profile TV commercial that spanned multiple locations across Italy.

The production required us to film in bustling city centres like Rome, Venice and Milan, as well as in remote, picturesque settings in the countryside and along the coast. Each location presented its own set of challenges—from securing permits in historic sites with strict regulations to coordinating logistics in areas with limited accessibility.

We overcame these hurdles through meticulous planning and by leveraging our extensive network of local contacts. Our team's adaptability was key; we developed detailed contingency plans, maintained open lines of communication with all stakeholders, and employed innovative solutions to logistical obstacles.

This collaborative and proactive approach enabled us to deliver a seamless production that met the creative vision and adhered to the tight schedule.

What are the biggest differences between the types of productions that Orbis Production works on?

While our dedication to excellence is a constant across all our work, each type of production brings its own unique flavour and set of challenges.

Producing a TV commercial, for instance, requires us to tell a compelling story or convey a powerful message within a very short time frame. It's about creating a strong visual impact and making every second count to leave a lasting impression on the audience.

Branded content allows us to delve deeper into storytelling, crafting narratives that align with a brand's values and engage viewers on a more emotional level. These projects often provide more flexibility in pacing and structure, enabling us to build a stronger connection with the audience.

Feature films, on the other hand, demand extensive development and world-building. We immerse ourselves in creating intricate character arcs and sustained narrative pacing over a longer duration. This involves comprehensive pre-production planning, longer shooting schedules, and a focus on every minute detail to create a cohesive and captivating story.

Our ability to adapt our approach to suit the specific demands of each project type ensures that the final product resonates with its intended audience and achieves the desired impact.