The island of Hydra has turned into a large-scale film set as preparations intensify for a new international production starring Brad Pitt. The actor arrived on the island on Thursday afternoon aboard the high-speed ferry Magic 3, operated by Magic Sea Ferries.

According to information from protothema.gr, Pitt traveled in business class with two companions and remained isolated, as production instructions prohibited other passengers from approaching him.

The Hollywood star is staying at the residence of a prominent entrepreneur on the island. His arrival signals the production’s final countdown ahead of filming.

Filming starts on February 21

Based on the production schedule, filming is set to begin on February 21, barring any unexpected developments. With Brad Pitt now on site and the full crew mobilized, Hydra is officially operating at the pace of a major international film production.

Activity centers on the port of Hydra, where the main set has been installed. A large, dark-green inflatable water tank—connected to pipes and a power generator—now dominates the stone-paved area. The system serves as the core mechanism for creating artificial rain on demand.

The setup resembles a massive storage reservoir and relies on high-pressure pumps and specialized equipment capable of releasing large volumes of water in seconds to achieve a realistic heavy-rain effect. This cutting-edge, high-cost technology underscores the scale and budget of the production.

Stores transformed into film sets

At the same time, the production has leased three waterfront shops. One functions as an equipment storage space, while the other two are being converted into film sets: one into a hydrofoil ticket office and the other into a traditional café, tailored to the needs of specific scenes.

The film shoot has already reshaped daily life on the island. All operating hotels are fully booked, as crew members have taken up most available accommodation. Cafés and restaurants that remain open report similarly high demand. Two large catering tents have been set up outside the Hydroussa Hotel to serve the production team.

Across Hydra, crews continue intensive work installing sets and technical equipment. Narrow alleys, squares, and landmark buildings are doubling as natural backdrops, with production teams carefully respecting the island’s unique architectural character.