PRODUCTION NEWS

PINEWOOD NAMES NEW SOUND STAGE IN HONOUR OF SIR SEAN CONNERY

On August 26th, Pinewood Studios announced a new sound stage, named in honour of the late Sir Sean Connery on what would have been the Academy Award-winning actor’s 92nd birthday. Officially called, The Sean Connery Stage, the 18,000sq/ ft purpose-built sound stage is one of five new stages opening on the Pinewood Studios lot.

One of the most influential and successful actors of his generation, Connery was the first actor to portray 007 James Bond on the big screen in Eon Productions’ Dr No, shot at Pinewood Studios in 1962 on Pinewood Studios’ original A, B, C and D stages, and on-location in Jamaica. Connery starred in a further five James Bond films, all shot at Pinewood Studios – From Russia With Love (1963), Goldfinger (1964), Thunderball (1965), You Only Live Twice (1967) and Diamonds Are Forever (1971).

Connery’s extensive services to the film industry were reflected in the many Awards he received over his illustrious career, including an Academy Award, two BAFTA Awards (including the BAFTA Fellowship), three Golden Globes, including the Cecil B. DeMille Award. Connery was knighted in the 2000 New Year Honours for services to film drama.

DIRECTOR HYPE WILLIAMS TO RECEIVE CAMERIMAGE MUSIC VIDEO AWARD

Hype Williams will be this year’s recipient of the Camerimage Award for directing achievements in music videos. Williams is an avant-garde visual artist and filmmaker, whose frequently cutting-edge work has ignited the imagination of people around the world. The many artists and bands he has worked over several decades include Notorious B.I.G, 2Pac, Missy Elliot, Mary J. Blige, Busta Rhymes, Jay – Z, Dr. Dre, Beyonce, DMX, Pharrell Williams and Jennifer Lopez.

Williams will be the honourary guest of the EnergaCAMERIMAGE Festival, which celebrates its 30th edition this year. The Lifetime Achievement Award this year will go to Stephen H. Burum – the cinematographer of Mission: Impossible, Carlito’s Way and The War Of The Roses. German avantgarde director and icon of feminist cinema, Ulrike Ottinger, will receive an Award for Avant-Garde Achievements in Film. Vance Burberry, who shot music videos for Guns N ‘Roses, Cher, Pearl Jam, Backstreet Boys, Enrique Iglesias, Britney Spears, Ozzy Osbourne, and The Weeknd will receive the Award for Achievements in the Field of Music Videos.

The sale of entry cards for the special, jubilee edition of the festival has begun, and these can be obtained online at the main Camerimage website. Tickets for single film screenings, seminars and workshops will be available for sale online during the Festival. Further details of the festival programme will be released soon.

EURO CINE EXPO ANNOUNCES 2023 DATES

Following a successful inaugural event in July 2022, the organisers of Euro Cine Expo have announced that next year’s event will take place on 30th June – 1st July, once again selecting the Motorworld in Munich as the venue.

This year’s Euro Cine Expo welcomed over 100 exhibitors and almost 2,000 visitors from around the world, and delivered an international platform for the film, TV and cinematography industry, including an exhibition and seminar programme.

Backed up by a wealth of positive feedback from exhibitors and visitors, as well as on-going support from industry supporters and associations, Euro Cine Expo will return in 2023 with an all-new layout to improve the flow and experience for all attendees.

K5600 LAUNCHES SPACEBEAM

K5600 Lighting is launching a range of Spacebeams, designed to attach to different fixtures in its product line, from the Alpha 300W LED up to the powerful HMI 9kW. This new accessory delivers a 3-degree beam angle that has four times the output of the spot beam of the Fresnel.

“Our new Spacebeam accessory, specifically designed and manufactured for our Alpha product line, makes the Alpha the most versatile large HMI on the market,” said K560’s Marc Galerne. “Its phenomenal, intense and narrow beam effect, ideal for use with mirrors, is simply an accessory, not a big, expensive mono-purpose unit. In addition to long-throw lighting effects, a space light effect can also be produced using Alpha 4k Quartz Reflector Technology, which allows for use of the fixture in the straight down position. By inserting the Spacebeam on to the Alpha 4K while in this position, a space light effect can be created generated by wrapping the Spacebeam with its soft, white diffusion fabric.”

RED DIGITAL CINEMA LAUNCHES V-RAPTOR XL 8K VV

Red Digital Cinema has announced the availability of the V-Raptor XLTM 8K VV camera. The new V-Raptor XL system leverages the current flagship V-Raptor 8K VV + 6K S35 multiformat sensor inside of a large-scale-production ready XL camera body. The all-new unified XL body is designed to support high-end television and motion picture productions.

The V-Raptor XL features the same multi-format 8K sensor found inside the compact and modular V-Raptor body, allowing filmmakers to shoot 8K large format or 6K S35. Cinematographers have the ability to always capture at over 4K, even when paired with S35 lenses. The company says the sensor boasts the highest recorded dynamic range and cleanest shadow performance of any Red camera. The V-Raptor sensor scan time is 2x faster than any previous Red camera and lets users capture up to 600fps at 2K.

The V-Raptor XL continues to feature Red’s proprietary Redcode Raw codec, allowing cinematographers to capture 16-bit RAW, and leverage Red’s latest IPP2 workflow and colour management. As with the Red Komodo 6K and standard V-Raptor system, V-Raptor XL will continue to use the updated and streamlined Redcode Raw settings (HQ, MQ, and LQ) to enhance the user experience with simplified format choices optimised for various shooting scenarios and needs.

The new XL system features an internal electronic ND system of 2 to 7 stops with precision control of 1/3 or 1/4 stop increments. It has dual-power options with both 14V and 26V battery compatibility, an interchangeable lens mount, wireless timecode, genlock, and camera control for remote and virtual production readiness. The XL incorporates a fully robust and integrated professional I/O array with front-facing 3G-SDI, 2-Pin 12V and 3-Pin 24V auxiliary power outputs, and a GIG-E connector for camera control and PTP synchronisation. The unified XL system packs all of the above into a 7.5”x 6.5” body, weighing just under 8lbs.

“The XL is one of the most innovative cameras we’ve launched, and I’m excited to get it into filmmakers’ hands,” said Jarred Land, Red Digital Cinema president. “The XL builds on our mighty V-Raptor and adds more outputs, additional power flexibility and an incredible internal ND system. The entire Red team is so proud of the advancements this brings to cinematographers, and we can’t wait to see what they create.”

For more information, filmmakers can visit any one of the Red Premium Dealers across the globe to schedule a demo and learn more about the products. CVP is Red’s only premiere reseller and Red Certified Service Centre in the United Kingdom.

LEITZ LAUNCHES HUGO PRIME FULL FRAME CINEMA LENSES

Ernst Leitz Wetzlar, premium lens manufacturer for the motion picture and television industry based in Wetzlar, Germany, has announces the development of a new line of cinema lenses, the Leitz Hugo prime lenses.

The Leitz Hugo lenses take their name from esteemed engineer Hugo Wehrenfennig, whose work for Leica Camera (then Ernst Leitz GmbH, Wetzlar) included creating the classic Leica M bayonet mount still in use today as well as many of the early M series lenses.

The news lenses are designed to be small, fast, lightweight, and as close-focusing as possible, with the full personality of the Leica M lens glass creating character at capture. The initial set of seven full frame lenses ranges from 21mm to 90mm, all T1.5, with 18mm and 135 mm focal lengths to follow soon. A 50mm T1.0 lens will also be available. The initial seven-lens set is priced at €107,300 with the 50mm T1.0 at €18,900. “Every lens we create is, in some way, an interpretation of the Leica M look,” said Rainer Hercher, managing director at Ernst Leitz Wetzlar. “The Leitz Hugo lenses are a more literal implementation that builds off the popularity of the Leitz M 0.8 series by using the same iconic Leica M optics, whilst elevating the housing design and build quality to match existing Leitz cinematography lenses in durability, usability, and importantly serviceability.” The lenses will have an LPL mount as well as the traditional cine orientation of focus and iris scales, expanded focus scales with a 270° rotation, and greatly increased close focus ability. They remain compact and lightweight starting at 1.78lbs/0.81 kg, and between 2.7 - 4.4” (68 - 112 mm) in length. As with other Leitz cine lenses, the Hugo series will have readily-available parts and replacement elements. Lens technician training will ensure reliable and consistent use for many years. Existing M 0.8 lenses will be eligible for a conversion to Hugo lenses in the future. Pricing and availability to be determined.

DEDOLIGHT COMPLETES LIGHTSTREAM RANGE WITH LIGHTSTREAM TABLE TOP

DedoLight has introduced DedoLight Lightstream Table Top, completing the Lightstream family, made up of Lightstream standard, Lightstream LITE and now the Lightstream Table Top.

The range of tools included with DedoLight Lightstream Table Top was originally conceived to serve traditional table-top tasks, such as product photography, filming of miniatures, animation and other table top work.

In its basic configuration, DedoLight Lightstream Table Top consists of 2 × 8W Ledzilla focussing lights, which can be mono or bi-colour. These lights can be fitted with the parallel beam intensifiers designed to work in combination with a choice of reflectors.

The front end of each Ledzilla, can also be exchanged for projection attachments which allow for a high degree of precision lighting with defined, razor-sharp accents.

The basic DedoLight Lightstream Table Top system comes with a range of 15 different reflectors and holding devices. The system works with the same rail used on the back of standard DedoLight Lightstream reflectors, which can now be used with a multitude of different holding devices, including bendable arms, different variations of magic arms, clamps and other accessories.

DedoLight Lightstream Table Top can also be used for the lighting of larger spaces and does not need to be limited strictly to table top work. Entire studios have been lit for music videos using only DedoLight Ledzilla lights.

CVP APPOINTS RENÉ VAN DER REIDEN AS MANAGING DIRECTOR OF CVP BELGIUM

CVP, one of Europe’s leading production solutions providers, has appointed industry veteran René Van Der Reiden to the newly-created role of managing director of CVP Belgium.

CVP Belgium was established earlier in 2022 with a significant investment in new sales, engineering and warehouse infrastructure, establishing a physical foothold to support the company’s continued growth.

As managing director, Van Der Reiden will play a pivotal role building on CVP’s mission to ensure the vital supply of production equipment and to deliver exceptional service for customers and partners.

He brings over two decades of extensive industry experience to the company, and was most recently international sales director at Netherlands-based reseller Aspectra B.V, where he was instrumental in elevating the brand to international recognition, as well as building valuable relationships with a host of leading brands in broadcast and cinema.

“René brings a wealth of sector knowledge, excellent strategic leadership skills and a strong client-centric mindset to CVP, his addition to the management team enables us to provide Europe with a dedicated focus, clarity and structure” commented CVP group MD, Jon Fry.

“European growth is a central part of our future strategy, and we are confident that René has the combination of skills and experience to lead the business through its next strategic phase, actively supporting our customer base as we continue to expand across the continent.”

“I am delighted to be joining CVP Belgium at this important time in the company’s history,” added Van Der Reiden. “CVP’s reputation continues to flourish, and we look forward to being able to bring the same price-competitiveness and reputation for excellence in customer service that have made CVP such a success to new customers across Europe.”

SONY ANNOUNCES VENICE RIALTO 2 & FR7 CINEMATIC PTZ CAMERA

Sony has announced new updates and developments for its Venice 2 motion picture camera system, including the release of the Venice Extension System 2, also known as the Venice Rialto 2.

The Venice Rialto 2, showcased for the first time at IBC 2022, is an updated version of the original Venice Extension System. The Venice Rialto 2 is a tethered extension system that allows the image sensor block and accompanying lens to detach from the camera body with no degradation in image quality.

The Venice Rialto 2 adds important enhancements over the original, including compatibility with both the Venice and the Venice 2 cameras, and it can transmit wide bandwidth sensor data over longer distances. In addition, the Rialto 2 offers greater mobility and compatibility with either a 3m or a 12m cable – without the need for a repeater. The Venice Rialto 2 is nearly the same size of the original system, measuring 158 x 147 x 126 mm, and weighing around 2.2 kg.

In other news, Sony has also announced the latest addition to its Cinema Line of cameras, with the ILME-FR7, an E-mount interchangeable lens camera with a full-frame image sensor and built-in pan/tilt/zoom (PTZ) functionality. Of interest to cinematographers, the FR7 also offers the cinematic look and operability of Sony digital cinema cameras plus versatile connectivity and efficient multi-camera workflow support.

Norbert Paquet, head of live production at Sony Europe commented, “The cinematic look and feel is fast becoming the norm in broadcasting and live production as it opens up new ways to tell a narrative. In parallel, especially in the last two years, we’ve seen a steep rise in content created remotely or in small locations where access is difficult. The new FR7camera answers both these trends in the market with its PTZ and cinematic features.”

A number of Cinema Line features are built into the camera to deliver a cinematic look-andfeel. These include: a sensitivity setting allowing the ISO to be expanded up to ISO 409600 when shooting in low light; 15+ stops of latitude, that help to prevent blown highlights and blocked shadows; pre-set scene files, such as S-Cinetone for natural mid-tones that are essential to healthylooking skin colour, plus soft colours and attractive highlights.

In the Cine EI mode, base sensitivity can be set to either ISO 800 or ISO 12800 to match lighting conditions and to minimise noise whilst maintaining a consistent look. This mode is helpful for postproduction, as it allows the use of Sony’s original S-Log3 gamma, wide S-Gamut3 and S-Gamut3 cine colour spaces. Slow-motion shooting in up to 4K 120p is possible with the FR7.

NEW KF4 4-LIGHT TRAVEL KIT FROM FIILEX

Fiilex has launched new KF4 4-Light Travel kit, which comes with (4x) 90W P3 Colour lights, protected by laser cut foams, in a 22” x 14” x 9” hardshell rolling case.

The KF4 kit also includes (4x) 5” Fresnels that can spot-flood each P3 Colour from 15 to 45 degrees. Both 3” and 5” barndoors are packed into the kit to give users more light shaping options. The custom KF4 travel case also has three zippered pouches for storing power supplies and other accessories. The delivery of the KF4 4-Light Travel Kit will start in Q4 2022.

ARRI’S NEW ORBITER PROJECTION OPTICS RENDER CRISP AND ACCURATE LIGHT

ARRI has launched Orbiter Projection Optics 25° and 35°. Combined with Orbiter’s ARRI Spectra light engine, the high-end optical system provides a state-ofthe-art LED profiler designed for theatre and cinematic applications, as well as broadcast studios and live productions.

The Orbiter Projection Optics provide precision and allow for crisp projection of a light spot, as well as gobo projection and precise shutter cuts. The field of light is even and without colour aberration. The projection has no visible hot spot or drop to the edge and the depth of field is outstanding. Both optics have a standard iris slot. The four manually-adjustable shutter blades of the Projection Optics 25° and 35° produce a beam where the shutter blade cut projection and the beam’s edge are simultaneously in sharp focus. Both optics have a motorised focus adjustment which allows for great precision and repeatability.

With the latest update of Orbiter’s Lighting Operating System, LiOS2, the focus can be controlled locally via Orbiter’s Control Panel or remotely by DMX/RDM or IP based (ArtNet or sACN). Once set, the focus is kept in place and not subverted by locking the lens tube into place. Furthermore, a standard B-size metal or glass gobo can be added. The genuine ARRI gobo holder is made to keep the gobo securely in place and the produced gobo pattern is clearly visible. Any focus adjustment between gobo and shutter is barely necessary; focus adjustment between gobo and open gate is not necessary at all. Additional ARRI accessories like a snoot or colour filter frames can be added in front enabling fine tuning when needed. The Orbiter Projection Optics are a great addition to the already existing Orbiter Fresnel Lens 15-65°. Both Projection Optics are compact in size: Orbiter Projection Optic 25° with 287 mm x 287 mm x 331 mm (11.3 in. x 11.3 in. x 13.1 in.) and Orbiter Projection Optic 35° with 287 mm x 287 mm x 284 mm (11.3 in. x 11.3 in. x 11.2 in.). The weight of the Projection 25° is at 5,45 kg (12 lbs) and of the Projection 35° at 4,35 kg (9,6 lbs). Orbiter’s unique Quick Lighting Mount (QLM) system allows the Projection Optics to be mounted safely and quickly but still enabling a 90° rotation. The LiOS2 update ensures an automatic recognition of this new optic and its latest feature, Optics Auto Adjust, offers 100% colour stability with any focus and any optic. The optic’s cooling fan can be controlled via Orbiter’s Light Control setting through the Control Panel. Both Orbiter Projection Optics will be available in black as from October 2022.

TIFFEN

INTRODUCES NEW 39MM FILTER SIZE

Tiffen, known for its renowned line of professional glass filters, is introducing 39mm round sizes to accommodate the proliferation of lenses with 39mm lens fronts for cameras from Leica and Fujifilm.

The first in the lineup is Tiffen’s Black ProMist, which has long been a staple with digital cameras due to its delicate control of highlight flares for a soft light pastel effect. It is offered in strengths of 1/8, 1/4, 1/2, 1, and 2, for an MSRP of $65.00 Also available is a round 39mm UV Protector filter at $10.99 and a Circular Polariser at $20.00 MSRP. Most Tiffen filter varieties can be made to order upon request.

Tiffen’s extensive array of professional filters is made from optical glass with waterproof and scratch-proof multicoating, which reduces reflection while maintaining clarity and colour fidelity. These new filters are available via Tiffen’s authorised dealer network or from

Tiffen’s website.

MATTHEWS STUDIO EQUIPMENT PRESENTS THE VEEBOXX

VeeBoxx kit from Matthews Studio Equipment is a new, portable soft box enclosure that works with The Claw to quickly transform the Astera 40” Titan tube into a diffused lighting source. The Claw and VeeBoxx form a safe, practical, solution to bring delicate tubes into the hefty world of grips and gaffers. VeeBoxx was designed by Sci-Tech award-winning key grip Richard Mall with gaffer Jeremy Launais. Key features include: three removable front panel diffusion options – Voodoo Cloth, 1/2 Grid (Lite) and 1/4 Grid; strategically-placed internal external hook and loop fasteners to secure the panel to the body and allow for control grid attachment; a reflective silver interior that maximises light output and black Ripstop body to prevent light loss.

VeeBoxx dimensions are 43” x 6” x 5.5” (109cm x 15cm x 14cm), with a wight of 2.7lbs/1.2kg. A sear zipper opening runs the length of the body, and allows for offset mounting and access to tube controls. The kit also includes small rag bag and The Claw for complete mounting system.