Rewriting the Script: How Technology Has Revolutionised the Screen Industries
Having begun my legal career in the early 90’s in the Legal and Business Affairs Department of Granada Television in Manchester, working on great TV drama productions such as Lynda La Plante’s “Prime Suspect” and Jimmy McGovern’s “Cracker” amongst others, I have watched on with some awe how technology has since changed the face of the television and film industry.
Over the past three decades, technology has profoundly transformed television and film production:
- Digital Cinematography: The shift from analog to digital cameras has streamlined the filmmaking process, allowing for immediate playback, easier editing, and reduced costs.
- Computer-Generated Imagery (CGI): Advancements in CGI have enabled filmmakers to create complex visual effects and immersive environments, expanding creative possibilities.
- Virtual Production: The integration of real-time rendering engines, such as Unreal Engine, allows for the seamless blending of live-action and digital elements during filming, enhancing efficiency and creative control.
- Streaming Platforms: The rise of streaming services has changed content distribution, leading to increased demand for diverse and high-quality productions.
- Artificial Intelligence (AI): AI is increasingly used in various aspects of production, from script analysis to editing, optimising workflows and enabling new forms of storytelling.
Belfast’s newly established Studio Ulster embodies these technological advancements, providing a hub for innovation and excellence in the creative industries. By offering state-of-the-art facilities and fostering collaboration between academia and industry, it is poised to play a significant role in the future of media production.
Studio Ulster is a global production centre of excellence, boasting the most technologically advanced facilities in the world. Located at Belfast Harbour Studios, it is a pioneering £72 million virtual production facility set to open in spring 2025. Spanning 75,000 square feet, it integrates cutting-edge virtual production stages, motion capture capabilities, and research labs, positioning Northern Ireland as a global leader in film, television, animation, and gaming production. As stated on its website it features an integrated research and development lab known as CoSTAR, which drives the advancement and fusion of real-time technologies, cutting-edge cinematography, computer-generated imagery (CGI), augmented reality, and motion capture.
Studio Ulster provides the worldwide film industry with:
- Virtual Production Stages: The facility boasts some of the most advanced virtual production stages globally, enabling real-time integration of live-action footage with computer-generated environments.
- Motion Capture and VFX: Equipped with state-of-the-art motion capture technology, Studio Ulster facilitates the creation of realistic digital characters and environments, enhancing visual storytelling.
- Research and Innovation Labs: In partnership with Ulster University, the facility includes dedicated labs for research and development in virtual production, fostering innovation and skill development in the creative industries.
- Economic and Educational Impact: As part of the Belfast Region City Deal, Studio Ulster aims to stimulate economic growth, create job opportunities, and provide educational pathways in emerging digital media fields.
Innovative facilities such as Studio Ulster are what sets Northern Ireland apart when it comes to leading the way in film, television, animation, and gaming production.
Our media and entertainment lawyers at Spencer West are able to provide expert advice and assistance to production companies and innovative facilities in navigating this ever changing landscape.