Portland, Maine – December 19th, 2009 – Excitement mounts as construction of New England’s largest permanent green screen wall proceeds at The Maine Studios. The 52’ wide by 18’ high screen opens a wide range of filming possibilities to movie and documentary productions, from advanced special effects, such as seen in the Harry Potter films, to simpler uses as seen during the evening weather report. Films such as “300” and “Sin City” were shot almost exclusively against green screens, and as such were made for a fraction of the cost of other major motion pictures. When finished, the screen will feature over 1400 sq ft of shooting area, making it one of the largest anywhere.
According to Streets of Portland Media founder Chris McMann, the screen’s architect, this screen will be put to a more down to earth use initially. “We plan on using it as a backdrop for talk shows and live music performances of local bands.” McMann said. He is also excited about a Do-It-Yourself furniture TV series that S.O.P. Media has in production. McMann says, “This takes S.O.P. to a new level, we have a great new space for our work and can provide opportunities to others as well.”
Having the largest green screen in New England and one of the ten largest in the country is a boon for The Maine Studios as well, according to Studio Executive, John E. Seymore. “This screen is an amazing asset for the studio.” Seymore said, “Maine has a lot of phenomenal locations that filmmakers love to use. Now they’ll also be able to simulate anything they are missing and make their entire film in Maine.” Initial construction has been completed and with special lights being added by year end the screen will be in use for SOPTV concert videos and other productions very soon.
Streets of Portland Multi-media has been in operation since 2003 and broadcasts live and pre-recorded concerts, and video content on their website www.streetsofportland.com. Additionally, the website features a user controlled remote camera with a view of Portland’s Monument square. McMann suggests, “A family can see the Christmas tree on their computer Christmas morning from wherever they are.”
The Maine Studios is an eco-friendly Film Studio located in Portland; Maine’s largest city. With over 43,000 square feet of production and office space, this facility is one of the largest film studios in the Northeast. www.mainefilmstudios.com
FMI:
Gary N. Hauger
Public Relations Director
The Maine Studios
235 Presumpscot Street
Portland, Maine 04103
207-358-7002
gary@mainefilms.org
Photo By John Higgins
Photo by John Higgins
