Cloud-based software is helping ease the process of location filming in the majority of London’s boroughs. FilmApp is designed to streamline location filming applications and connect Location Managers and Producers with the relevant organisations and resources.
Pinewood Studios has signed an agreement to set up a new centre of excellence that will provide young people with specialist training in the screen industries. Courses will focus on visual effects, videogames and support services.
London’s Underground train network remains a popular filming location in the year of its 150th anniversary. A dedicated Film Office liaises between Location Managers and specific stations, and the network hosts around a dozen features every 12 months, plus numerous smaller projects.
Tom Cruise’s new sci-fi war movie All You Need Is Kill has filmed on location in London’s Trafalgar Square. The star was taken to the location by helicopter for the Sunday shoot that closed the square for several hours.
Pinewood Shepperton Studios near London has announced increased revenue for 2012 and “encouraging” bookings for 2013. The company has also upgraded its digital television facilities, while also starting work on new studio space.
Creative Scotland has invested in the initial stage of planning for a potential studio facility in Scotland. The organisation has put forward GBP75,000 for a feasibility study and an initial GBP1 million has also been set aside towards the cost of the development.
Virginia is looking to boost its regional film tourism to take advantage of Steven Spielberg’s high-profile Lincoln shoot. The state has launched a self-guided Lincoln Movie Trail and accompanying website, which points out filming locations used for the much-lauded movie.
Film tourism from the UK to Mumbai is growing, due partly to an increase in the number of Bollywood productions filming in Britain. Virgin Atlantic launched a new daily flight from London to Mumbai in late October 2012 and credits Bollywood for driving demand.