Introduction to Story Works Studios
Story Works Studios in London is gearing up for its first independent feature film production, marking a significant milestone for the studio. The film, titled "First Assignment," will star Cynthia Erivo and is an adaptation of Suzie Miller’s Tony and Olivier award-winning play. Production is set to begin in the autumn, with additional filming taking place in London in November.
The Production Team
The British-Australian co-production is being produced by Bunya Productions and Embankment Films, in collaboration with Story Works Studios. Miller has adapted the play for the screen, and the film will be represented by UTA Independent Film Group and CAA Media Finance for sales in the USA.
Story Works Studios: A New Player in the Film Industry
Story Works Studios was founded by British producers Damian Keogh and Simon Vaughan last year, in a former brewery in Richmond, Southwest London. The studio initially served as a temporary facility for the Disney+ series "A Thousand Blows," which Keogh and Vaughan produced. Other notable productions that have used the facility include Universal Pictures’ "Downton Abbey: The Great Finale" and Amazon MGM’s upcoming "Jack Ryan" feature.
Supporting Independent Filmmakers
According to Simon Vaughan, co-founder and CEO of Story Works, the studio is committed to supporting independent filmmakers. "We have been focusing on larger productions since opening with ‘A Thousand Blows’ for Disney+. We are now looking forward to welcoming our first independent feature film to the studio and supporting the film with co-investment," he said. The studio offers a reduced rental fee for independent productions, making it more accessible to smaller projects.
Making Film Production More Accessible
Adrian Wootton, Managing Director of Film London, noted that many independent producers have traditionally thought that they could not afford or access larger studios, equipment, and facilities. However, with the extended audiovisual tax credit loan, these options are now open to filmmakers. Story Works Studios’ decision to open its doors to independent film projects is a great example of this, making film production more accessible to a wider range of creators.
