Abu Dhabi Film Commission Showcases Collaborative Power in Film Production
The Abu Dhabi Film Commission (ADFC), part of the Creative Media Authority (CMA), has recently released behind-the-scenes footage of the film "Now You See Me: Now You Don't". This Hollywood production, filmed in the capital of the United Arab Emirates, highlights the effective collaboration between various entities focused on promoting the region as a prime destination for international filmmakers.
A Spotlight on Collaboration
The video reveals how the Abu Dhabi government provided an efficient framework for cooperation, alongside streamlined production support and advanced infrastructure, all aimed at successfully managing this major international filming project. Over 450 professionals were involved in the making of this film, including 290 international crew members and more than 170 local creatives, showcasing the extensive pool of talent available in Abu Dhabi's rapidly growing creative industry.
Interviews with key figures—including director Reuben Fleischer, producer Bobby Cohen, physical production executive Kelly Konop, and production designer David Scheunemann—elucidate the scale and ambition behind this project, emphasizing the significant contributions of local talent.
Enhanced Production Benefits
The production of "Now You See Me: Now You Don't" was greatly supported by the ADFC through a deferred grant of 35%, which was instrumental in simplifying the permitting process and providing on-ground assistance, ensuring seamless coordination with local production service provider Epic Films and key location partners, Miral Destinations.
Sameer Al Jaberi, director of the Abu Dhabi Film Commission, remarked, "This behind-the-scenes film pays tribute to the collaborative ecosystem that positions Abu Dhabi as a truly cinema-friendly destination. This large-scale production demonstrates our effectiveness and the strong coordination among agencies, along with the talent of our local creative media professionals. It exemplifies how Abu Dhabi empowers international filmmakers to bring their visions to life while contributing to the growth of our creative ecosystem."
Building a Global Cinema Hub
Liam Findlay, CEO of Miral Destinations, echoed this sentiment stating, "Our partnership with the Abu Dhabi Film Commission, Creative Media Authority, and Lionsgate emphasizes Yas Island, and by extension Abu Dhabi, as a premier global destination for filmmakers. From iconic architecture and attractions to the supportive environment of Abu Dhabi, we continually pave the way for innovative and globally celebrated cinematic narratives."
The initiative reveals Abu Dhabi's ascent as a globally recognized center for cinematic storytelling, endorsing more than 180 major film and television projects. This includes productions like "Mission Impossible – Dead Reckoning," the second part of "Dune," and "F1 The Film."
Continued backing for filmmakers, state-of-the-art facilities, and diverse cinematic offerings are solidifying Abu Dhabi’s position on the global stage for film production. Currently, "Now You See Me: Now You Don't" is available in theaters worldwide, showcasing the fruits of this extraordinary collaborative effort.
Video Link: Watch the Behind-the-Scenes Video
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