Ruben Goots and Jason Felstead, founders of Hamlet, set out to create a showcase for talent in the audiovisual sector, where directors, producers, actors and screenwriters get a chance to amaze the world with their incredible stories. The ambitious duo not only achieved their goal, but did it in less than ten years! Hamlet’s productions are now enjoying great success worldwide. An absolute highlight was the Nike 2018 World Cup commercial, which clocked up over 170 million views!
Today, Hamlet is regarded as a world-renowned production house. Thanks to its originality, the quality-oriented company has already received 30+ international awards.
A thrilling new chapter in China
During the start-up phase, Hamlet could count on the support and advice of screen.brussels, the audiovisual cluster of hub.brussels. The cooperation extended when the audiovisual company solicited the support of hub.brussels’ international network to start filming and producing outside Europe.
Hamlet’s founders explored China during hub.brussels’ princely mission in November 2019, providing a solid basis for their adventure in the East Asian country.
Some positive results obtained by Hamlet during its economic mission to China, thanks to hub.brussels’ international department:
- Established contact with Belgian and local companies doing business in China, and quickly expanded its business network.
- Was introduced to the Belgian Chamber of Commerce (BelCham) and the EU SME Understanding China center, giving exposure to the young Belgian company.
- Received active support to help Ruben and Jason open their Shanghai branch office.
Ruben Goots
Executive Producer/Managing Partner à HamletFrom a business perspective, China is a country surrounded with considerable uncertainty. That’s why hub.brussels' on-location support is extremely valuable for us. hub.brussels’ contact point in Shanghai help us to better understand this complex market.
The outcome, one year later
The opening of a branch office in China has further strengthened Hamlet’s international ambitions. Soon, the production house will establish a new base in Paris, where it can count on the necessary support offered by our local attaché.
Despite the past setbacks during the COVID-19 crisis, Hamlet has come a long way since Day One, forecasting a promising future. To be continued!
