What began as a personal move soon evolved into a bold strategic decision.

In an interview with Cyprus Mail, Matt Murphie, founder and investor of Copper Island, the international film company with roots in the US, UK, Europe and Australia, which now launched its new post-production facility in Cyprus, explained that Limassol stood out not only for its accessibility and infrastructure, but also for its growing role as a business hub.

“From a logistical point of view, it’s well-positioned between Europe, the Middle East, and North Africa, which is ideal for international productions,” he said.

Cyprus’ competitive tax rebate scheme also played a role in the decision.

“The incentives were definitely a factor. While many regions offer rebates, Cyprus’ scheme is very competitive,” Murphie noted.

But he added, “incentives alone aren’t enough, it’s about the ecosystem as well.”

Having overseen more than $100 million in production budgets globally, Murphie brings a measured, long-term approach to Cyprus.

He said they’ve worked on a wide range of budgets, both big and small, but acknowledged that “producing larger scale productions in Cyprus will take time as further investment into local infrastructure is needed.”

He considers the opening of Copper Island’s studio a strategic first step.

In this context, when comparing Cyprus to other Mediterranean hubs such as Malta or Greece, Murphie believes the island holds a distinct advantage.

“It really is a natural studio,” he said.

“It has many locations that perhaps aren’t available in Malta or Greece. Its strengths are the great rebate and the local crews that provide a great foundation to build upon.”

This long-term commitment is also personal.

He has already chosen to live here. “Yes, I’ve been settled in Cyprus for some time now and I’m raising my daughter here,” he said.

Although his work often takes him abroad, Murphie confessed, “selfishly, I’d prefer to bring more of that work home so I can do what I love in the place I love living.”

That vision is already materialising through the launch of Copper Island’s post-production studio in Limassol.

“Copper Island is home to the island’s only TPN-certified post-production studio, which means we meet the security and technical standards required by major studios like Disney, Amazon and Netflix,” he said.

The facility is fully equipped for film, TV, and streaming work, and he confirmed that there is already strong international interest.

Still, Murphie acknowledged that challenges remain.

“The local talent is strong, but the crew base is still small,” he said.

With multiple productions, resources could be stretched thin. For Murphie, what’s needed now is more hands-on experience. “More shoots, more roles, more real-world exposure.”

Looking ahead, Copper Island plans further expansion.

“Yes,” he said. “We intend to invest in further expansion and hope to invest in sound stages in the future.”

He added that Copper Island intends to work closely with universities and schools. “The recent update to the rebate scheme requiring productions to include interns is a great step. As a result, we’ll also be offering intern opportunities across pre-production, on set, and in post.”

This educational engagement ties into Murphie’s wider commitment to local talent.

“We aim to engage local talent across pre-production, on set, and in post,” he said.

“Nothing is more valuable than hands-on experience, and every production creates real opportunities for people to learn by doing.”

Already, Copper Island has supported two local productions with entirely Cypriot teams.

As international projects come in, he said, they will continue involving local crews, production staff, and actors at every level. “We hope to promote Cypriot talent abroad.”

In terms of community ties, Copper Island is also making itself known. In 2024, the company sponsored Apollon Limassol FC.

“We like football, so thought sponsoring a team was a good place to start,” Murphie said.

“It was also a first step in letting people know of Copper Island’s existence.”

On the creative front, the company’s first Cyprus-backed film, ‘Apart from Her’, explores themes of identity and displacement. Murphie said, “Our creative identity evolves from project to project. We’re open to telling a range of stories, big or small, artistic or commercial.”

He added that Marios Piperides’ upcoming film is already in the edit at their studio.

The company’s name itself reflects a local connection. “Copper Island is a name we’re proud of,” he said.

“It’s a tribute to Cyprus and it’s a name that we hope brings more attention to the island as a filmmaking destination.”

That ambition aligns with Murphie’s experience. With a background that includes working alongside Ron Howard, Jude Law, and Anthony Hopkins, he believes Cyprus has the appeal to attract high-calibre talent. “Cyprus offers world-class hospitality, five-star hotels, great restaurants, beautiful weather, and stunning locations,” he said.

“It’s the kind of place anyone wants to visit, including high-calibre talent.”

As for the scale of future projects, Murphie sees opportunity in diversity.

“We believe in creative diversity, different stories, different scales,” he said.

“For Cyprus, there’s a clear sweet spot. Projects that are ambitious but also fit the island’s current infrastructure and deliver sustainable, profitable outcomes.”

Sustainability, he added, is also part of Copper Island’s thinking.

“We’re not trying to overhaul the system overnight,” he said, “but we will consider taking conscious steps toward greener production practices. We’ll follow the local lead, aiming to be thoughtful and practical about sustainability as we grow.”

Meanwhile, discussions with major streaming platforms are already underway.

“Despite being early on in the process, we are already in discussions and have met with some of the biggest names in the industry,” he said.

“There’s real interest in Cyprus, and a general consensus that the island offers strong upside and untapped potential.”

From a policy standpoint, Murphie spoke positively about the government’s incentive structure.

Asked about Cyprus’ tax incentive programme, he said it is “highly competitive,” though Copper Island has not yet applied for or received any tax rebates beyond supporting two local co-productions.

He added, “Our hope is that, as more productions have positive experiences here, Cyprus continues to build a reputation as a reliable and trustworthy destination for filmmakers.”

When comparing Cyprus to Hungary’s widely praised film scheme, Murphie noted that “every territory’s rebate scheme offers something unique.” Cyprus, he believes, offers excellent access, diverse settings, and skilled crews, but still needs to scale up its infrastructure.

Ultimately, he said, “It’s not just about the rebate scheme, it’s about having a complete ecosystem that allows filmmakers to realise their vision at a high standard and a cost that makes Cyprus a competitive and compelling choice.”

Reflecting on the bigger picture, Murphie shared his long-term view of success. “We aim to be a profitable business,” he said.

“But we’re also here to leave a lasting, positive legacy. If ten years from now we’re working consistently with top-tier talent and telling stories we truly believe in, then we’ll know we’ve done something meaningful, both locally and globally.”