Jason Connery to head up Scottish film studio

After much discussion, it looks like Scotland will be getting a dedicated film and TV studio development in the capital. First Stage Studio will be based in the Port of Leith and will be run by director Jason Connery and producer Bob Last, who we're told will manage, operate and promote the facility in the UK and worldwide.

Screen Scotland has promised £1 million towards the development, which includes five sound stages and 27,000 square foot production office space, with the rest of the investment to come from the private sector.

The space in Leith has already played host to a major Hollywood production in Marvel's Avengers: Infinity War (read our interview with director Joe Russo about shooting in Edinburgh), and the hope is that the development will attract other major productions to the city, not just for location shooting, but studio production as well. The space would also be a boost to local filmmaking.

“The studio is key in expanding film and TV production in Scotland,” said Screen Scotland’s Executive Director Isabel Davis. “We’re delighted to be working with First Stage Studios to bring it to life. Bob and Jason bring a wealth of expertise and industry knowledge that is invaluable to the development of the studio.”

Last has plenty of experience producing in Scotland. As well a the Scottish BAFTA-winning Tommy’s Honour, which was directed by Connery, his other credits include two Scottish shot Terence Davies films: The House of Mirth and Sunset Song. “We look forward to building on the strong interest already expressed by international and UK customers,” said Last. “We are grateful to Screen Scotland for their commitment to an ambitious film and television sector and look forward to contributing to its development.”