Film Industry News
Recent Developments in the Film Industry (June 19–26, 2025)
Studio Developments
Studio Ulster Launches in Belfast
Studio Ulster, a £72 million high-tech film studio in Belfast, has officially opened, positioning itself as a global leader in virtual production. The 75,000-square-foot facility features Europe's tallest motion capture stage, advanced LED volume walls, robotics, Lidar, and 4D scanning technologies. Developed by Ulster University in partnership with Belfast Harbour and partially funded by the UK government, the studio aims to attract major international productions and is expected to generate £50–£100 million in additional annual investment, creating up to 600 jobs. (ft.com)
Louisiana Revamps Film Tax Credit Program
Louisiana has enacted Act 44 to revitalize its film industry by overhauling the state's film tax credit program. The new law grants the Louisiana Economic Development agency greater authority to adjust incentive rules administratively, allowing qualified productions to receive up to 40% in tax credits. Notably, caps on per-project and per-person tax credits have been removed to attract larger productions. While the total annual credit cap remains at $125 million, these changes aim to make Louisiana more competitive amid rising production costs and declining traditional revenue streams. (apnews.com)
Industry Events
NAB Show 2025 Highlights
The National Association of Broadcasters (NAB) Show 2025, held from April 5–9 in Las Vegas, showcased significant advancements in broadcast and media technology. Key highlights included:
Marshall Electronics debuted the RCP Plus Controller, designed to enhance production capabilities and streamline workflows for broadcast professionals.
Mark Roberts Motion Control (MRMC) introduced the RPS Roaming Pedestal System, a groundbreaking development in studio broadcasting technology.
Mo-Sys Engineering demonstrated its latest innovations in virtual production, including the ultra-compact L20 remote head suitable for both film and broadcast applications.
Casting News
Denzel Washington Joins 'Black Panther 3'
Denzel Washington has been confirmed to join the cast of "Black Panther 3." Director Ryan Coogler has long expressed a desire to collaborate with Washington, who praised Coogler's work and the cultural significance of the "Black Panther" franchise. Washington's role in the upcoming film has yet to be disclosed. (projectcasting.com)
Samuel L. Jackson to Lead 'Tulsa King' Spinoff
Samuel L. Jackson is set to star in a new spinoff of the series "Tulsa King," which will be set in New Orleans. The project is in development at Paramount+ and marks Jackson's entry into Taylor Sheridan's expanding television universe. (projectcasting.com)
Studio Deals
Emerging Screenwriters Secure Major Studio Deals
Call Sheet Media, a screenwriting mentorship and development company, has successfully guided emerging writers Tyler Woods, Mark Grover, and Christine Uomini in securing major studio deals. Through its mentorship program, Call Sheet Media provides hands-on guidance, script development, and direct access to industry decision-makers, bridging the gap between aspiring writers and top-tier production studios. (cenlanow.com)
Key Film Industry Updates This Week:
- High-tech Studio Ulster drives boom in Northern Ireland's film industry, Published on Saturday, June 21
- Tax credit tweaks aim to boost Louisiana's struggling film industry, Published on Monday, June 23