#India #Chennai #Barco #Prasad Film Labs #HDR Color Grading

Barco and Prasad Launch India's First HDR Projection Color Grading Facility

In a groundbreaking move for the Indian cinema industry, Barco and Prasad Film Labs have unveiled the country's first HDR color grading facility. This new facility promises to revolutionize the post-production process and significantly expand the availability of expertly graded HDR content, a vital asset for filmmakers aiming for excellence in visual storytelling.

The facility was opened in Chennai, India, and represents a collaboration that highlights both companies' commitment to innovation in the media and entertainment sector. Barco, recognized globally as a leader in laser cinema technology, and Prasad Film Labs, a pacemaker in post-production and film technology, have come together to redefine how films are graded and presented.

The State-of-the-Art Facility

Prasad's grading suite is equipped with Barco's sophisticated HDR Lightsteering technology, including the renowned Barco HDR Lightbox and the LS4K-P HDR projector. This advanced system enables a seamless grading process, ensuring filmmakers’ visions are accurately translated onto the big screen. The suite features a massive 51-foot screen, making it the largest HDR color grading suite in Asia, and boasts India’s longest throw distance in a Digital Intermediate (DI) suite. This unique setup facilitates an unmatched creative atmosphere for filmmakers, allowing them to see their visual stories come to life in high quality.

Abhishek Prasad Akkineni, CTO of Prasad Film Labs, expressed enthusiasm about the facility: "At Prasad, our legacy focuses on staying at the forefront of film technology. With the launch of India’s first HDR by Barco grading facility, we provide top-tier infrastructure that allows filmmakers to achieve their artistic visions with astonishing accuracy. Our partnership with Barco solidifies our leadership in the post-production sector with cutting-edge solutions."

As HDR technology is rapidly gaining traction in India, the partnership aims to address the rising demand for enhanced cinematic experiences. This initiative aligns with Barco's strategy of increasing its cinema footprint in the region, including plans for 80 new HDR screens through collaborations with Qube and TDI over the next five years.

Enhancing Visual Storytelling

Gerwin Damberg, EVP of Barco Cinema, emphasized the significance of HDR in cinema's future: "We believe HDR is the single most transformative advancement since color was introduced in film, elevating storytelling to extraordinary heights. However, it's the true artists—filmmakers, colorists, and storytellers—who breathe life into these vibrant colors and shades. Our role is to equip them with the creative tools necessary to realize their vision in the most spectacular way possible."

Two notable blockbusters have already commenced grading at the new facility, with an exciting lineup of high-profile projects slated in the coming months. This momentum is a strong indication of the industry's trust in this innovative approach to film production and exhibition.

Key Features of the HDR Color Grading Facility

• - BARCO LS4K-P+ HDR Laser Projector: This advanced projector, paired with a custom Barco HDR Lightbox, ensures true HDR color grading.
• - Baselight Version 6: Recognized as the premier color grading platform, it enables seamless workflows and enhances the grading process.
• - Impressive Screen Size: The facility features a massive 51-foot screen, providing a striking backdrop for filmmakers during the grading process.
• - Precision Mastering: The process guarantees exact visual fidelity and a premium theatrical experience.
• - Future-Ready Outputs: The facility is equipped to meet the growing demand for HDR content across OTT, broadcast, and satellite networks.

About Barco and Prasad Film Labs

Prasad Film Labs has been a trusted name in the film industry for over seventy years, recognized globally for its innovative contributions in film restoration, VFX, and advanced post-production services. Barco, headquartered in Kortrijk, Belgium, is global leader in visualization and innovation, particularly in the healthcare, enterprise, and entertainment sectors. Together, both companies are set to elevate the filmmaking landscape in India by pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in color grading and cinematic experiences.

For further insights and to follow their journey, visit Prasad Film Labs and Barco.