Marlborough’s Film Scene: A Deep Sleep and Signs of Change Ahead
Screen Office’s Dormancy Announcement
In an unexpected decision, the Marlborough District Council has voted to put Screen Marlborough into dormancy. This move reflects the changing landscape of the film industry, impacted by various factors such as the rise of AI, political shifts, and economic uncertainties.
Impact and Activities of Screen Marlborough
The council’s economic development team highlighted that Screen Marlborough played a significant role in positioning the region as an appealing destination for screen production. In the recent period, it aided seven productions, including a feature film and a global Volkswagen commercial shot at Cape Campbell lighthouse.
Notably, a 2022 scouting trip by Taika Waititi’s partner for a potential film studio location at an old sawmill in Blenheim reflects the ongoing interest in Marlborough as a filming hub.
Details around the exact projects being considered were not disclosed, but this sawmill has since evolved into the Sawmill Studios Charitable Trust, supported by Screen Marlborough.
Training and Workshops
The studio was a venue for skill-development workshops and training in screen production, alongside a successful initiative with local colleges, where students learned to produce short films. Dorien Vermaas, the economic development manager, emphasized that changing economic conditions prompted this recommendation for dormancy.
“It has been a remarkable journey,” Vermaas affirmed, noting that the shifting dynamics within the team and the external screen environment necessitated this pause.
Vermaas pointed out that technological advancements, particularly AI, have made it challenging for Marlborough to entice medium- to large-scale productions.
“Changes in technology are greatly reshaping the screen sector,” she indicated, suggesting that this decision allows the region to reassess its position over the next twelve months.
Future of Sawmill Studios
The Sawmill Studios Charitable Trust has also decided to enter dormancy. Trust treasurer Stuart McCormick described this step as a reflection of the current state of the film industry, acknowledging a decreased volume of film work in New Zealand.
“Even with favorable rates for filmmakers, we are unable to compete with studios in Auckland right now,” he stated. Still, he maintained that the studio would remain accessible for short films and smaller projects, albeit without regular staffing.
Future options might focus on special effect work, though some acoustic challenges remain due to the studio’s location.
McCormick believes that the film industry in Marlborough will eventually rebound.
Reflections on Industry Changes
Councillor Gerald Hope commented that the decision to pause operations is part of the cyclical nature of filmmaking. “Such ebbs and flows are common; this isn’t a sign of failure,” he explained.
The sentiment resonates with fellow councillor Matt Flight, who acknowledged the unpredictable nature of the film industry, referencing the historical impact of films like **The Lord of the Rings**.
Flight encouraged readiness for opportunities: “It’s wise to keep options open in case interest arises.”
How do you think the film industry can adapt to these changes in technology and production landscapes?
