Six months on, and ELP is now providing specialist rigging services at Pinewood. "We are delighted to be the first supplier based at Pinewood to bring the latest rigging technology to the studios," says MD Ronan Willson. We have just installed a complex hoist and tracking system for a feature being filmed here."
The structure uses two 40m tracks to automate the movement of lighting pods along the studio. A computerised winch system enables four 20kW heads each side to be tracked at various speeds and heights as required.
Willson continues: "I was approached by rigging gaffer Pat Miller, who outlined the structures he needed, and gave us some ideas. We were then able to fine tune and provide the solution for use by gaffer Matt Moffatt and DoP Barry Ackroyd. It's great to be asked to provide knowledge and technical expertise learnt in the touring and OB market for a feature. I am sure that this kind of technology crossover will become more common as trussing structures and electric hoist systems become better understood by feature productions."
ELP says it will be greatly expanding rigging stocks and services at Pinewood, including free workshops to feature riggers, gaffers and construction staff wishing to gain a full working knowledge of the techniques and equipment available. Contact Toby Dare on 01753 785700 for dates and times of sessions.
(Lee Baldock)
