The UK’s Pinewood Studios has officially opened its new Independent Film Hub, which incorporates sound stages, production offices, and workshop spaces.
The hub has been set up in response to the UK government’s new Independent Film Tax Credit, which was announced in 2024 to support lower-budget films and independent filmmakers.
The Independent Film Hub was opened by Ian Murray, the UK’s new Culture Minister. Murray was welcomed by David Conway, Chief Executive at Pinewood Group, and other members of his team.
During the visit, Murray met with directors and producers working on live productions and carried out a tour of a number of film sets, including the first production to use the Independent Film Hub, Anxious People, starring Angelina Jolie, Aimee Lou Wood, Jason Segel and directed by Marc Forster.
Recent major releases filmed at the Buckinghamshire site include Marvel’s The Fantastic Four: First Steps and The Roses.
Pinewood Studios is home to Disney in the UK, including Marvel, Lucasfilm, and Disney live-action films.
He said: "Pinewood's Independent Film Hub is a striking example of the innovation and investment that the Government is championing across the creative industries. This world-class facility gives independent filmmakers the tools that they need to bring their visions to life, and it was a pleasure to open it today.
Pinewood Group recently announced a public consultation on revised expansion plans for its Pinewood Studios in Buckinghamshire, amid what it describes as a “reduction in global content production.” Discover more here.
Film and TV Charity launches 2026 Looking Glass Survey
Kicking off the start of Mental Health Awareness Week, the Film and TV Charity has launched the 2026 Looking Glass Survey to analyse staff wellbeing experiences in the industry.
Sky extends Formula 1 deal in UK, Ireland, and Italy
Sky and Formula 1 have struck a multi-year agreement for the exclusive rights to broadcast Formula 1 race weekends in the UK, Ireland, and Italy through the next decade.
Framestore promotes Theo Jones to Creative Director of AI
VFX giant Framestore has promoted Theo Jones to the newly created role, Creative Director of AI.
Bectu calls for government intervention in Paramount–WBD merger
Film and TV industry union Bectu has called for the government to intervene in the proposed merger between Paramount Global and WBD, warning that the deal risks increasing insecurity for creative workers and further concentrating media power in the UK.
Open letter urges UK government to back campaign against on-set injuries
Senior leaders from the film, TV, and theatre industries have come together to urge the UK government to support a campaign to prevent on-set injuries.
