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Amazon MGM Studios acquires Bray Film Studios: A new era for UK filmmaking
The historic acquisition of Bray Film Studios by Amazon MGM Studios marks a significant milestone in the landscape of British filmmaking. This move not only underscores Amazon’s commitment to expanding its production capabilities but also highlights the rich heritage and future potential of Bray Studios.
A new home for “The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power”
Amazon’s acquisition of Bray Film Studios comes on the heels of its recent use of the site as a production hub for the second season of “The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power.” This epic series, which has captivated audiences worldwide, will now have a permanent home in the UK, ensuring that the magic of Middle-earth continues to be brought to life with the highest production values.
For more details, check out the trailer and information sheet: The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power.
Expanding Amazon’s global footprint
This acquisition is Amazon’s first purchase of a physical studio in the UK, adding to its existing portfolio, which includes The Culver Studios in California and a long-term lease at Shepperton Studios. The Bray Film Studios site, located just 26 miles from central London, boasts impressive facilities, including 53,600 square feet of sound stage space, 77,400 square feet of workshops, and 182,900 square feet of backlot.
The first production to be filmed at Bray following the acquisition will be the second season of the Russo Brothers’ spy series “Citadel,” starring Richard Madden and Priyanka Chopra Jonas. Filming is set to begin in September.
For more details, check out the trailer and information sheet: Citadel.
A commitment to the UK creative community
Mike Hopkins, head of Prime Video and Amazon MGM Studios, emphasized the importance of this acquisition in fostering relationships with the UK creative community. “With Bray as our creative home in the UK, we are committed to deepening our relationships with the UK creative community, which is rich with world-class storytellers and creative talent of all kinds,” he said.
Frank Burke, chairman of Bray Film Studios Ltd, echoed this sentiment, expressing pride in the studio’s storied heritage and excitement for its future under Amazon’s stewardship. “We are now genuinely excited to be handing the studios over to Amazon, who we believe share our commitment to quality and excellence,” he said.
A rich filmmaking heritage
Bray Studios has a long and illustrious history dating back to 1951 when it became the permanent home of Hammer Films. The studio was the birthplace of numerous iconic films, including the 1957 cult classic “Dracula,” starring Christopher Lee. In the 1970s, it was the site where models and miniatures for Ridley Scott’s “Alien” were created and shot. The 1980s and 1990s saw Bray Studios used as a music space, hosting rehearsals for Led Zeppelin and the Freddie Mercury Tribute Concert for AIDS Awareness.
After a period of inactivity, filmmaking resumed at Bray in 2017 with the hit BBC series “Bodyguard,” followed by the Oscar-winning Elton John biopic “Rocketman.” The second season of “The Rings of Power” began shooting at Bray in October 2022.
For more details, check out the trailer and information sheet: Rocketman.
A bright future for UK filmmaking
The acquisition of Bray Film Studios by Amazon MGM Studios is a vote of confidence in the UK’s creative industries. UK culture secretary Lisa Nandy highlighted the potential for economic growth and career opportunities that this investment will bring. “We are determined to support the huge potential for economic growth in our creative industries,” she said. “This vote of confidence by Amazon MGM Studios will ensure that one of our leading film studios continues to play a crucial role in our first-class screen industries.”
As Bray Film Studios enters this new chapter under Amazon’s ownership, it is poised to continue its legacy of producing iconic films and TV series. The future looks bright for UK filmmaking, with Bray Studios at the forefront of this exciting new era.
