Wright emphasized that the LED volume wall in Regina is revolutionizing the film and TV industry with its advanced technology and cost-effective production methods. The wall, built by Volume Global for $12 million, has already attracted major productions like the action-thriller “Hostile Takeover,” which is being filmed in Regina but set in New York.
The 295-degree circle of 1,800 LED panels measures 26 meters in diameter and nine meters tall, providing a versatile backdrop that can mimic any location or setting. Co-founder Michael Wright expressed excitement at the high demand for the facility, with industry giants like Netflix and Amazon expressing interest in shooting projects in Regina due to the cutting-edge technology of the LED wall.
Actress Aimee Stolte, who stars in “Hostile Takeover,” shared her awe at the scale and capabilities of the volume wall, noting how it has opened up new opportunities for her to work in her home province. Director of photography Dante Yore, known for his work on “The Mandalorian,” praised the wall as a welcome challenge after years of dealing with the limitations of green screen technology.
With bookings already scheduled until 2027, the LED volume wall in Regina is set to drive significant film industry growth in Saskatchewan, showcasing the province as a hub for innovative and efficient filmmaking. Yore was instrumental in recruiting and training local talent to construct and operate the volume wall, with one notable hire being Cory Maclean, who is currently overseeing the lighting for the production of “Hostile Takeover.” Maclean expressed gratitude towards the grant program and volume wall, as they have enabled him to continue working locally within the film industry.
“The volume wall has really opened up new possibilities for what we can film here. It simplifies certain aspects of production, like shooting driving scenes where we can just place the vehicle on the wall instead of constantly moving it back and forth. It also eliminates the need for lengthy trips back to base camp for costume changes,” Maclean explained.
A decade ago, Saskatchewan discontinued its film employment tax credit in favor of not competing with other regions offering more lucrative incentives. However, in 2022, the province introduced a grant program for approved films that covers up to 40% of expenses incurred on goods and services within Saskatchewan.
The Government of Saskatchewan reports that approximately $28 million has been allocated to 46 productions, which are projected to spend over $71 million in the province. This is expected to generate an economic output of around $128 million and create over 800 job opportunities.
Funding for “Hostile Takeover” was provided by Provincial agency Creative Saskatchewan, amounting to $3.3 million. The province anticipates that this investment will result in the creation of 140 jobs and economic spinoffs totaling $14 million.
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