Ron Howard’s ‘Alone at Dawn’ Actively Shooting in Budapest
Filming for Ron Howard’s military drama, Alone at Dawn, is actively taking place in Hungary. The production is ongoing in various locations around Budapest and in Fejér County, with work continuing as of early January 2026.
Production Timeline and Locations
The shooting began in early November 2025 and is expected to extend through February 11, 2026. This schedule marks an extension beyond the initial timeframe of November and December.
Hungary as a Production Hub
Budapest serves primarily as a logistical hub for the film. While it hosts interior scenes in controlled environments, the main exterior sequences are being filmed at the Polgárdi quarry. This location has been adapted to represent the mountainous terrain of Afghanistan, featuring extensive combat scenes that include explosions and intricate military maneuvers.
Operational Approach
- The production prioritizes physical realism over studio effects.
- Filming does not involve any prominent street-level activity.
- No significant usage of Budapest landmarks has been reported.
Low-Profile Cast Activities
The cast’s public presence has been minimal to maintain focus on the project. During a brief filming break, Adam Driver attended a concert at the Liszt Ferenc Academy of Music on November 15, 2025. He was present for a performance celebrating Franz Liszt’s works, though his appearance became widely known only after the venue shared photos several weeks later.
Project Overview
Directed by Ron Howard, Alone at Dawn is produced by Imagine Entertainment and Amazon MGM Studios, which is financing and distributing the film. The movie tells the true story of U.S. Air Force Combat Controller John Chapman during the pivotal 2002 Battle of Takur Ghar.
Following the completion of shooting in Hungary, the production is set to transition to filming locations in the United States. Alone at Dawn contributes to the trend of high-quality U.S. features utilizing Budapest’s diverse filming options.
