Return to Magna

In May we returned to Magna Science Adventure Centre in Rotherham, near Sheffield. The location is based in a disused steel works and is superb for filming. We'd previously used their car park for a city bottom scene. This time we utilised their vast storage area and cooling pits to film two scenes based in the Cursed Earth, for once it was nice to get undercover.

Photo by Barry Renshaw

It was a productive, if some what hectic, couple of days, with everyone having to pull together to get the required shots filmed in such a short space of time.

Highlights included, young actor, Matthew Beddows in a new character created especially for him, a purely visually roll, which he embraced and breathed life into. Model Integra Fairbrook produced a very touching performance which allowed us to dwell on a few very important shots, which we were originally concerned may be a problem. Thanks to her work the shots will probably be some of the best in the film.

As well as a very energetic death scene, which nearly maimed two crew members (including myself), John Burdis provided invaluable technical advice. After only a brief appearance in North Wales, Steve Longdon had the opportunity to flesh out his slightly disturbing character and it was great to finally call on Mark Watson's physical acting abilities, even if it did have to be done at breakneck pace!

As always we are eternally grateful to the remaining 'Minty Players' - Peter, Jenny, Guy, Simon, Darren, Dale and Jason. Just a few of the cast regulars, who traveled from the four corners of the country to reprise their roles, often for only a few seconds of screen time. I don't mind repeating myself when I say that their enthusiasm is often what keeps us going.

Again, Steve Green produced some amazing shots, with very little time to prep, I think the general reaction when reviewing the footage was "F**K YEAH!" Story board artist Barry Renshaw, also proved invaluable for continuity as well enjoying himself with the smoke machine. Daniel Carey-George was kept insanely busy assembling four new costumes and rigging two sets, completing in hours what should usually take days.

Edmund Dehn's performance, as always, was a highlight when viewing the rushes and provided the required presence to ground our story.