Amazon Prime Video has recently acquired the historic British film studio, Bray Film Studios, which served as the production home for the second season of “The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power.” The studio has a rich history dating back to 1951 when it was home to British production company Hammer Films. Located in Water Oakley, Berkshire, the studio features approximately 53,600 square feet, five sound stages, and 77,400 square feet of workshops. Amazon already has a presence in the UK at Shepperton Studios but saw the acquisition of Bray Film Studios as a strategic move.
Bray Film Studios has a storied past, having been home to iconic film productions such as “Dracula” in 1957, “The Rocky Horror Picture Show” in 1974, and the production of models and miniatures for the 1980 film “Alien.” Additionally, Eric Clapton’s 1992 album “Unplugged” and the Elton John music biopic “Rocketman” were both recorded at Bray. The studio has been the production home for the “The Lord of the Rings” series since 2022, showcasing its versatility and appeal to a wide range of productions.
Amazon’s acquisition of MGM Studios in 2021 was a significant move for the tech giant, marking its second-largest acquisition ever. The deal, valued at $8.4 billion, has allowed Amazon to expand its content library and production capabilities. The acquisition of Bray Film Studios further solidifies Amazon’s commitment to investing in high-quality productions and creating a strong foothold in the competitive streaming market. The terms of the Bray Film Studios deal were not disclosed, but it represents a significant step for Amazon in its continued growth in the entertainment industry.
The first Amazon MGM Studios production to be located at Bray Film Studios post-acquisition will be the second season of the spy series “Citadel,” scheduled to begin filming in September. This move demonstrates Amazon’s confidence in the capabilities of Bray Film Studios and its ability to accommodate a wide range of productions. The studio’s reputation for hosting successful film and music projects, combined with Amazon’s vision for creating top-tier content, sets the stage for exciting future collaborations and productions.
The strategic location of Bray Film Studios, just 26 miles outside of central London, provides easy access to a wealth of talent and resources in the entertainment industry. With five sound stages and extensive workshop space, the studio offers a versatile and adaptable environment for filming a variety of productions. Amazon’s long-term lease at Shepperton Studios in the UK, along with the acquisition of Bray Film Studios, reflects the company’s commitment to establishing a strong presence in the UK and leveraging the country’s rich history in film and television production.
As Amazon Prime Video continues to invest in high-profile productions and acquisitions, the addition of Bray Film Studios to its portfolio represents a significant milestone in the company’s growth strategy. With a focus on creating compelling content and expanding its reach in the global entertainment market, Amazon is well-positioned to build on the success of “The Lord of the Rings” series and other popular productions. The acquisition of Bray Film Studios underscores Amazon’s dedication to delivering top-quality entertainment to audiences worldwide and solidifies its position as a key player in the streaming industry.
