We are a small and dynamic award-winning video production company based in Croyde Bay North Devon, servicing a UK client base for corporate video production, DVD authoring, product photography and bespoke cd ROM/DVD ROM production, camera equipment rental and crewing for drama and corporate filming. We operate an all-digital policy to ensure the quality and flexibility of our products.

We produce Digital Cinema media, Bluray and DVDs, web media in lots of formats including mobile phone media. We can directly convert or arrange format conversion from Hi8, VHS, SVHS, Beta and film sources. We also hire out our HD production equipment including 35mm lenses, cameras, jib, dollies, HD monitors, Video DSLR filming kits and audio recording gear.

We provide a wide variety of services to small and large businesses, including full video production services, editing, colour grading and motion graphics, visual effects and audio post production. We also produce documentary, music videos, promos, extreme sports videos and provide a variety of web and IT services to help support video production for Bluray, digital cinema, the web and mobile devices.

We provide a full DVD production service, from DVD authoring to DLT tape for mastering, DVD disc and packaging artwork design and can provide very competitive pricing for large scale DVD replication (1000+ pressed DVDs) or short-run DVD-R duplication using a very high quality disc printing process in-house. We also produce Blu-ray discs, Dual-layer DVDs and HD-DVDs for replication or playback at exhibitions and conferences.
Check our services or faq's for more information.

  We have digital sound mixing facilities and can create custom music soundtracks for your media or use sources from our production music library or from unsigned bands who want the exposure.

  We are also licensed to create Dolby Digital ™ Audio tracks and use Dolby ™ trailers and logos for our DVD productions.

   More Video streaming and downloads in our downloads area.

Current Projects:

We are searching for a new Media Apprentice.
Visit our apprenticeship page for more info.
Genesis Surf Shop 2012 Spring clothing lines
Revitalising Yoga DVD menus and artwork
Universe Inspectors Documentary edit
Post Production for TRF ltd film 'The Reverend'
New Maniac Films rentals web site - coming very soon
New music video for Mike Stocks

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Our SP Profile

Secure Online Shop now open

      MANIAC films news and updates 2011:

February 2012 - Artaura Productions web site for Rooftops, Chimney Pots & Seagulls goes live

Matt Biggs from Artaura Productions spent 2010 filming a life and death drama about a family of seagulls that nested on the chimney pot near his home. The resulting film is called Rooftops, Chimney Pots & Seagulls.
The film was shot on the Canon EOS 7D and the GoPro HD Hero, the latter of which was loaned by Maniac Films.
The web site has a teaser trailer and a short making of documentary 'Mirrors of Life and Death' which has been receiving some great feedback from people all over the world already.
Check out the new web site at http://seagulls.artaura.co.uk

<Check out the rental page for more information about our equipment hire services>..

January 2012 - Crew hire and live event filming for Cineon Productions

Cineon Productions recently called upon us to supply a camera operator to film a business conference in Birmingham.
The brief required our cameraman to use a camera provided by Cineon, however this left them short on kit for another shoot on the same day so they also hired a Sony Z1 HDV camcorder from us to cover the shortfall.
The event filming went smoothly and the rushes were delivered to Toby from Cineon the next day.

<For more information on crew hire or live event filming click here>..

<Check out the rental page for more information about our equipment hire services>..

January 2012 - The Shadows dual-layer DVD duplication and cover printing for Great Torrington School

Marcos, the Performing Arts technician at Great Torrington School has been helping students from the school to write and star in their own film. The result is 'The Shadows', a 75minute thriller set in and around the school buildings.
The film was shot and edited by the students and the film was premiered at the school in July 2011. However the school needed help with one aspect, making 150 copies of the film for sale to students and parents.
We were happy to help the school out with this. We received the files earlier this month and quickly duplicated 150 copies of the film onto Dual-layer discs. After a few tweaks to the layout, we also printed the disks and matching covers before packaging them up.
Marcos is very happy with the finished product and we hope that the stars, their friends and families will love watching the film.

<See our duplication page for more about our DVD duplication and printing services>..

January 2012 - NTSC DVD conversion and DVD duplication for The Maniac Project film

The Maniac Project is a low budget grind-house style , exploitation comedy film created over 3 years by director N. Andrew Elliot and produced by Darren Horne. The film won an award in California at The Accolade film festival and has been doing well ever since.
Darren Horne contacted Maniac to ask us to convert the film from Pal to NTSC, allowing them to market the film in the USA.
We also created 50 printed copies of the DVD to be posted out as screeners.
We were more than happy to help with this and it's great to work with new and upcoming talent to help them in promoting and distributing their work!
You can see a trailer for the film on You tube - although if you are under 18 or easily offended we do not recommend that you watch it

<Check out our video production page for more info about our video format conversion services>..

January 2012 - Zombie resurrection trailer now online - filmed with Maniac Films shooting kit

Back in August we supplied a full shooting kit to Charmed Apocalypse Pictures for a to shoot their new zombie film - Resurrection.
The shooting kit included a Panasonic AF101 camera with external Nanoflash recorder, along with a shoulder mount rig including follow focus and shoulder mount, tripod, a range of Nikon prime lensesMarshallll monitor, lighting and more.
Well there is now a trailer online and it's great to see the results from our cameras - we think it looks great!
You can see the trailer on the Charmed Apocalypse web site or you can check it out on You tube

<Check out our rental page for more info about our equipment hire>..

January 2012 - Mr Pickles appears in local paper and on the BBC

Local musician Mike Stocks (aka Mr Pickles) has been features in local press and even on the BBC news.
Mike first appeared in the North Devon Journal in an article that can be seen online - Mike in The Journal.
Mike was then featured on the BBC regional news programme Spotlight on Tuesday 10th January at around 6:40pm .
The news package featured Mikes music video Dreamin' which was filmed by Maniac Films in December.
It was great to see Mike, his song and his moustache getting the attention they deserve. Even his wife Karla and daughter Sunday appeared on the telly.

You can watch the Dreamin video on You tube The Newsnight piece can be seen here.

December 2011 - Maniac Films are closed for Christmas until 3rd January 2012

Its the season of cheer and of goodwill to all man (and women), so we decided to show ourselves some goodwill and close down the office for a few days.
We will be closed from Thursday 22nd December at 5pm until Tuesday 3rd January at 9am.
However, e-mails sent via the web site contact form will still be read by Mark, although replies may take slightly longer than usual.

We would like to wish all of our customers a very Merry Christmas and an exceedingly happy New Year. We look forward to seeing you all again after the festivities are done!

December 2011 - Music video Dreamin' is complete and online along with new web site

We have completed work on the new music video for Dreamin' by Mike Stocks. As reported in November, this video features a band made up of monkey puppets performing around Mike as he sings on stage in a custom built monkey theatre.
The band has been named 'The Junk Shop Quartet' in a reference to the fact that most were bought in charity shops or car boot sales.
The video went online on Saturday and at the time of writing (Monday morning) the video has already had over 500 hits!
As well as the video, Stu designed a simple web site to help promote the video and to allow provide contact information for press and industry enquiries. Visit wwww.thejunkshopquartet.com to see it.

  Play Youtube Version

< click here for more info about our Video production services>..

December 2011 - Maniac Films goes solar (powered that is)

Here at Maniac we have always tried to be as green as possible, although difficult when running computers all day! We try to keep paper usage to a minimum and recycle as much as possible.
We have now taken a huge leap to reducing our carbon footprint by installing 2 banks of solar panels on the roof of our office.
We have already started generating electricity despite the currently miserable weather and we will take a nicer photo of our panels when the sun finally appears...

November 2011 - Filming for Mike Stocks music video - Dreamin'

Sometimes you find yourself filming something thats...well, a little odd. Our recent shoot music video shoot for Dreamin' by Mike Stocks certainly raised some eyebrows.
We were shooting in a converted loft where Mike has built a mini theatre and populated it with a chair and some monkey puppets.
We filmed on 2x Canon EOS 7D cameras using our Porta Jib and Gekko lens lite. Stu and Mark were also joined on set by three puppeteers who spent the day cramped up at the sides of the stage. The video should be online very soon as editing is well under way! A story should also appear in the north Devon Journal shortly as well so keep your eyes peeled!

<Visit here for more info about our Music video production services>

November 2011 - New rental equipment arrives including Zacuto EVF and Redrock Live Lens

As we hire out more and more equipment to our customers, we try to be up to date and give them the best service that we can
In order to do this we now have some now toys in the office and available fo hire. The first is the new Redrock Live Lens mount, a micro 4/3 - Canon EOS adapter tat gives you full electronic iris control. This is the first on the market and now allows us to use our Canon lenses on the AF101.
The second is the Zacuto EVF, a HDMI electronic viewfinder for DSLRs and other HD cameras. It works with the Zacuto Z-finder loupe and runs from Canon batteries.
We also have a new Redrock Blue follow focus, new shoulder mount and have just taken delivery of a new Glidetrack 1m HD hybrid slider. Check our rental news page for more details

<Visit here for more info about our production equipment hire>

November 2011 - The Reverend Trailer goes live and release date announced

The trailer for The Reverend is finally available for the public to view online and has already notched up over 3000 views across Youtube.
Maniac Films worked on the film and the trailer, in both production and post-production roles.

We can now also announce the release date for The Reverend. The official UK release date is 3rd February 2012. It will be great to finally see this film hit the shelves!

For more info about The Reverend, See our dedicated Reverend minisite

  Play Youtube Version

< click here for more info about our Video production services>..

November 2011 - The Muddy River Band live video now on YouTube

Now available to watch on YouYube is our live edit of The Muddy River Band performing 'Brownsville Blues'. We filmed the full live performance by the band back in August.
We also provided a live DVD, fully edited from the 5 cameras that we used on the night and an audio CD from the gig. From this the band have chosen 'Brownsville Blues' to be edited and put onto the web to promote the band.

  Play Youtube Version

< click here for more info about our Video production services>..

November 2011 - Basils Balls Up Band live video now on YouTube

Now available to watch on YouYube is our edit of 'Long Tall Texan' performed by Basils Balls Up Band. In August we filmed a full live performance by the band and within a week we had provided them with a copy of the live audio on CD.
We also provided a live DVD, fully edited from the 5 cameras that we used on the night. From this the band have chosen 'Long Tall Texan' to be edited and put onto the web to promote the band.
This song truely does capture the essence of their live gig, full of fun, a healthy dollop of silliness and some great music.

  Play Youtube Version

< click here for more info about our Video production services>..

October 2011 - Photo shoot for Genesis Surf Shop as Winter 2011 products go online

The Winter 2011 accessory ranges have been appearing on the Genesis Surf Shop web site over the last month, but we were in need of someone to model the clothing lines....
Stepping back into the studio were Josh and Nadine, the brother and sister duo who modelled the Spring 2011 line for Genesis.
Product photos from the shoot are already appearing on the site with new styles from Animal, Roxy, Quiksilver and Black Salamander clothing. To see the new products and all else that Genesis has to offer, visit the web site - www.genesissurfshop.com

<Visit here for more info about our product photography services>

October 2011 - Maniac Films sponsor London Film Academy Graduation Showcase event.

Here at Maniac we have always believed in giving new film makers and young people a chance, so we are proud to be sponsoring the London Film Academy Graduation Showcase 2011.
The showcase is an annual event used to show off the work of the students, with prizes and awards given for the best short film.
Maniac Films have generously provided a number of rental kit vouchers which can be used by the winners to hire equipment for a production from us - free of charge.
Students will be able to select any equipment from our Camera and Film equipment hire pages up to the value of the voucher

<Check out our rental page for more info about our equipment hire>..

October 2011 - Roll the credits, The Reverend is complete!

Its been a long road but with the arrival of the credit roll and animated opening sequence, The Reverend edit is complete. Now time for the premiere!
Having received and added the audio (in both stereo and surround) last week, we took delivery of the animated opening title sequence and a word file containing the rolling titles for the end of the film
The end credit roll was soon ingested into Final Cut Pro and converted into a series of animated title plates and credit roll.
The premiere will be held on October 14th in London's Leicester Square as part of The British Horror Film Festival 2011, although it will also be showing at the Grimm Up North film festival in Manchester on October 8th.

For more info about The Reverend, See our dedicated Reverend minisite

September 2011 - Grade and VFx for The Reverend nears completion.

We have been working on the grade for The Reverend and have already finished the trailer, sent the audio to the sound designer and nearly completed 98% of the main film.
With only the end credits and final audio mix to go on the main edit, we feel pleased with how the film looks! One of the most time consuming jobs has been rotoscoping, a task which involves painting out items (such as stray microphones) frame by frame.
One challenging scene (see image on left) required us to grade the shot in black and white, but leave an apple hanging from a tree in colour. We had to use a number of techniques and software solutions including Shake, Photoshop and Final Cut Pro... but by sharing the workload and using each others strengths we were able to create a fantastic shot that meets our directors needs.

For more info about The Reverend, See our dedicated Reverend minisite

September 2011 - Recycling DVD authoring for Twofour

In another collaboration with Twofour in Plymouth, we have just completed the authoring of a DVD to promote recycling.
The film was supplied by TwoFour and we created menu artwork before authoring.

The disk artwork and the layout for the recycled cardboard packaging was designed here at Maniac and will be replicated in large quantity for distribution.

<more info on our DVD authoring services>..

August 2011 - Live music gig filming - The Drop

For our 3rd and final live gig at Unison Holiday park in Croyde, we found ourselves being entertained by Combe Martin based band The Drop.
For this performance we moved from the bar area to the much larger conference room, which allowed us to use our dolly and Porta Jib to add dynamic movement to our shots.
On roaming camera we had Uni students Tim and Richard with Stu and Matt operating the crane. We also used the Panasonic AF101 camcorder and the GoPro on the drum kit.

The band covered a wide range of music across the two 40min sets and once they had gotten over the embarrassment of dancing around on stage in front of a camera, they had fun and were even seen filming themselves as a post gig/backstage video.
The footage from the 5 cameras will be edited and turned into a live DVD that will be available for sale. We will also be creating a Live CD from the audio captured using the camera mics and an external Edirol R-44 recorder.

<more info on our live event production services>..

August 2011 - Bristol City scenic shots for Bristol University admissions DVD.

Stu and Matt from Maniac Films have have been back to Bristol, exploring the city armed with a camera and a local guide. Their task was to capture a snapshot of the local culture to finish off the Bristol University Faculty of Engineering admissions film.
Filming on a Panasonic AF101 camcorder, they were led around the city by Caroline from the university marketing department. The shoot took in a number of locations, from the historical SS Great Britain in her dry dock, to a street decorated with the results of a recent graffiti and street art event.
So now just a few finishing touches and the film will be online and available for all to see.

<more info on our Video production services>..

August 2011 - Live music gig filming - The Muddy River band

Maniac Films have just returned from filming Bideford based blues group, The Muddy River Band at Unison holiday park in Croyde.
The setting was a bar/reception area on the site, an intimate venue that challenged us to fit our cameras and an audience into it. We were joined by former work placement student Tim and university student Richard on the evening to make up a 4 man crew.

Lasting 120 mins, the gig was filmed using a Panasonic AF 101 as a static wide shot and 3 x Canon 7D video DSLRs working hand held around the room. We also mounted a GoPro HD camera onto the drum kit to capture a close-up of the drummer.
The footage from the 5 cameras will be edited and turned into a live DVD that will be available for sale. We will also be creating a Live CD from the audio captured using the camera mics and an external Edirol R-44 recorder.

<more info on our Video production services>..

August 2011 - Live music gig filming - The Basils Blues band

Filming live music can be fun, especially when the band are as eccentric and fun as the Basils Blues band.
We were invited by band promoter Paul to the performance at the Unison holiday park in Croyde. Joining the Maniac crew for the night were former work placement student Tim and university student Richard.
The gig came together in two 40min sets and was filmed using a Panasonic AF 101 as a static wide shot and 3 x Canon 7D video DSLRs working hand held around the room. We also mounted a GoPro HD camera onto the drum kit to capture a close-up of the drummer.
The footage from the 5 cameras will be edited and turned into a live DVD that will be available for sale. We will also be creating a Live CD from the audio captured using the camera mics and an external Edirol R-44 recorder.

<more info on our Video production services>..

August 2011 - New web site for The Reverend goes live.

The web site for the new film by director Neil Jones has now gone live! Until now www.TheReverendFilm.com has been a simple holding page.
On the site you will able to browse production stills, find out about the cast and crew (including Maniac Films own Mark Brindle) and soon you will be able to see the trailer that we recently finished.
You can check out the web site at www.TheReverendFilm.com.

For more info about The Reverend, See our dedicated Reverend minisite

August 2011 - Pickup shots for The Reverend filmed in North Devon.

When shooting a film, inevitably some shots will not be filmed. This can be due to time, location issues or host of other reasons. When this occurs, it is necessary to film 'pickups'.
For The Reverend we only needed tow extra shots for the film, both of which were filmed by Maniac Films in North Devon. The most important was a shot of blood dripping into a sink.
Working alongside one of our team was Richard Standen, who assisted as chief blood mixer and dripper. The footage was filmed an a Panasonic AF101 in 60fps 1080p. The fact that we provided camera hire for the shoot allows us to use the same kit for pickups and ensures no quality differences in the new footage.

For more info about The Reverend, See our dedicated Reverend minisite

August 2011 - Prime lens rental for Deranged movie in Spain

We have just provided Madrid based EnMar Productions with a full set of Nikon prime lenses for their production of new movie Deranged.
This English language thriller will be filmed entirely in Spain by a talented Spanish crew and directed by Neil Jones (Risen).
This film is being shot on the Canon EOS 5D mkII video DSLR and we supplied a full complement of lenses, complete with Canon-Nikon adapters and lens gears for follow focus use.
To see our range of nikon and Canon 35mm lenses, visit our Lens Hire page

<Check out our rental page for more info about our equipment hire>..

August 2011 -Full AF101 shooting kit hire for Zombie resurrection film

After a successful test shoot in July, Charmed Apocalypse Pictures have hired a full Panasonic AF-101 shooting kit for the filming of their new movie Zombie Resurrection.
The shooting kit included a Panasonic AF101 camera with external Nanoflash recorder, shoulder mount rig including follow focus and shoulder mount, tripod, a range of Nikon prime lensesMarshallll monitor, lighting and more.
The principle shoot is taking place throughout August and we hope it goes well...and we can't wait to see how it looks!
You can find out more about the film on the Charmed Apocalypse Pictures web site or you can check out the 'warts and all' Shooting the dead blog

<For more info about our film shooting kits, check out our rental pages>..

August 2011 - DVD and Blu-ray authoring for Twofour

Working with Twofour in Plymouth, Maniac Films have provided dual DVD and Blu-ray authoring for a promotional video for a cruise line.
Working with the film supplied by Twofour and our own menu artwork, we encoded the video, built the menu structure and created the final DVD for the client.

The project gave us a chance to really get to grips with our new Adobe Encore blu-ray software and we are really pleased with the results.
The disk artwork was created in-house and as duplicated with a full colour print upon glossy DVD and Blu-ray disks.

<more info on our DVD and blu-ray authoring services>..

July 2011 - Cover feature on the IOV magazine - Our review of the Panasonic AF101 on the set of The Reverend .

After spending a few weeks working with the Panasonic AF-101 on the set of The Reverend, Mark was asked by the editor of the IOV (Institute of Videography) monthly industry magazine 'Focus' to write a review of the camera and what it was like to work with it.
We prepared a series of images to go with the article and when it arrived we surprised to see Marks photo on the front cover!
We have created a PDF with the article for you to download and read. Either click here or click on the image to the left to open/download.

For more info about The Reverend, See our dedicated Reverend minisite

July 2011 - The Reverend grade and VFx begins at Maniac Films.

Fresh from the edit suite, the final cut of the new Neil Jones film, The Reverend is now being graded by Maniac Films. We will also be adding additional visual effects.
We are also working on the trailer, grading and cleaning up the shots ready to promote the film. Once we finish the trailer we will move onto the rest of the movie.
Special effects include adding rain to an outdoor scene as can be seen on the left. A rain machine was used on set, but we have added more rain, tweaked the lighting and generally added to the miserable atmosphere in the shot.
The rain effect was accomplished using a tracking tool, moving the rain across the image to simulate wind on a stormy night. The final effect looks great and we can't wait to see it on the big screen!

For more info about The Reverend, See our dedicated Reverend minisite

July 2011 - Blu-ray authoring now available at Maniac Films

Blu-ray has been around for a while now and is growing in popularity. Here at Maniac Films we have been filming and editing in HD for some time and have been providing basic blu-ray duplication and basic 'play only' authoring for the last 18 months for our clients who need basic playback and loop capability for blu-ray.
We can now offer full blu-ray authoring capabilities with standard menus and pop-up blu-ray menus!
To do this we have invested in Adobe's Encore software, which gives us everything we need to make fantastic Blu-ray disks.
As with our DVDs and CDs, we can also provide a full colour disk print if required.
If you want would like more information on our Blu-ray authoring services, call or email us and we will be happy to help.

<Click here for more information on our DVD and Blu-ray services>..

July 2011 - Maniac supply full AF101 shooting kit for new zombie film test shoot

Maniac Films have just supplied a full AF101 shooting kit to Charmed Apocalypse Pictures for a weekend test shoot in preparation for the filming of new zombie film - Resurrection.
The shooting kit included a Panasonic AF101 camera with external Nanoflash recorder, camera rig including follow focus and shoulder mount, tripod, a range of Nikon prime lenses,Marshall monitor, lighting and more.
The test shoot was a complete success and Jake from Charmed Apocalypse has confirmed that they will be using our camera rig for the main shoot which begins at the end of July for a month.
You can find out more about the film on the Charmed Apocalypse Pictures web site or you can check out the 'warts and all' Shooting the dead blog

<Check out our rental page for more info about our equipment hire>..

July 2011 - Live video editing and CD & DVD authoring for Steve Tucker

Steve Tucker, front man for Steve Tucker's All Star Jazz Band, brought us a pile of tapes containing live recordings of two recent band performances. Our task was to create a live DVD from these tapes and also encode individual tracks for Youtube
As part of the project we visited Ilfracombe, filming location for one of the performances, to capture scenic views of the area that appeared in some of the songs alongside shots filmed by Steve after the gig.
The final film was authored and committed to DVD that will be sold with a live CD that was recorded at the same performances. The final stage was to duplicate and print a number or the CDs and DVDs.
You can see 8 of the tracks now on the Steve Tucker All Star Jazz Band Youtube page.

<Click here for more information on our Video Production and DVD authoring services>..

July 2011 - Mobile edit suite hire and editing assistance for Martin Cassini

Martin Cassini's campaign for traffic system reform - Equality Streets (formerly FiT Roads) - continues. His latest project is a series of films for Cheshire East Council about the biggest shared space (no traffic lights) scheme yet seen in the UK.
It's at a major junction in the small town of Poynton, currently cut in two by a north-south trunk road. We part-hired, part-loaned Martin our Apple Macbook Pro with Final Cut Studio and an external hard drive containing footage from his previous films for use in the new edits. After completing an assembly, Martin returned to us and we taught him more advanced techniques to help him refine the first piece. Then he went away and completed the second, longer version, with the occasional SOS dealt with by email. The two films so far approved (a 4' and a 10') still await a green light from the Council to go public.
Meanwhile, if you would like to find out more about Martin's work, see Equality Streets or you can still visit his old FiT Roads site.

<Check out our rental page for more info about our equipment hire>..

July 2011 - Internal business update film for Actavis Pharmaceuticals

We have been working with one of the largest employers in North Devon, Actavis Pharmaceuticals to create a video presentation for their Internal Business Update.
We travelled to the company's UK headquarters in Barnstaple to meet with Sara Matthews who, although nervous at first,madee a confident presentation to in camera in front of a high key background.
The film will be used at internal business updates, allowing the UK chief to be part of the meeting without having to physically be at each one. We were also given the chance to film inside the laboratories, where we had a chance to see medicines being created and packaged. All of the footage captured on the day was integrated with video shot at the opening of the new Actavis European headquarters last year.

<more info on our Corporate video production services>..

June 2011 - Springboard Consultancy Conference film complete

Earlier this month we attended and filmed the Springboard Consultancy annual conference in Milton Keynes.
We have taken the footage, which included all the the presentations as well as interviews with visitors and key speakers, and created a series of short films for the web.
The main film is a 7 min overview of the conference which can be seen on the Springboard web site alongside a gallery of still images that we also provided

We also created 13 films, ranging from 4-7 mins each. Each film discusses and highlights a key feature, benefit or service provided by Springboard and were filmed at the conference with key speakers and visitors. the 13 films and the overview film can all be seen on the Springboard Youtube Channel.

<more info on our Video production services>..

June 2011 - CD print and duplication for StevieRay in time for Goldcoast

Local singer/songwriter Stevie Ray Latham has just completed the recording of his first album,titled 'modern attitudes' and this weekend he will be performing at Goldcoast Oceanfest in Croyde.
In preparation for his upcoming performance, Stevie Ray came to us to make use of our duplication facilities.
We created a run of printed CD's with printed cardboard sleeves which will be available in the merchandise tent at the festival. Artwork was supplied to us by Stevie Ray and his dad Shaun.

<Click here for more information on our CD duplication services>..

June 2011 - Maniac Films are searching for a Media Apprentice

Here at Maniac Films we believe in giving new and enthusiastic talent a chance to shine. This year we have a place for a Media Apprentice to join the company as an advanced apprentice in creative and digital media, giving them a chance to work on a variety of projects in the workplace.
The job will begin in summer 2011 and will last between 18-24 months.
For full information and how to apply, visit our apprenticeship page.

June 2011 - Conference and interview filming for Springboard Consultancy

We have been busy filming with Springboard Consultancy at their annual conference in Milton Keynes.
Mark used two Panasonic Af-101 cameras to film the speakers at the conference as well as interviewing key delegates and a number or of guests.
The footage will be edited into a highlights video that will be used to promote next years event and the promote the work of Springboard. Mark will also edit the interviews into individual films. These will be available to view online soon.

<more info on our Video production services>..

June 2011 - Location shoot for Bristol University Faculty of Engineering admissions DVD.

Stu and Matt from Maniac Films have just returned from a final shoot in Bristol with The Faculty of Engineering at Bristol University, collecting the last pieces for a 2011/2012 admissions film.
This shoot was to capture a few interviews and final shots that we had been unable to get on previous shoots due to student timetables. Luckily, despite miserable conditions on the journey up, the weather blessed us sunshine throughout the shoot, allowing us to really show the uni campus at it's best!
The footage was captured using a Canon 7D and audio recorded on an Edirol R-44, both of which are available for hire from Maniac Films.

<more info on our Video production services>..

May 2011 - O'Kalem Collection DVD build project for IFI completed

We have been working hard to complete a DVD project for the Irish Film Institute (IFI). The O'Kalem Collection is a rare glimpse into the film archives, showing for the first time in many years, a series of films made by the Kalem Film Company between 1910-1915.
We were sent the finished films by American documentary film maker Peter Flynn of BIFF Productions, who also made a 96 min documentary for the second disk called Blazing The Trail.
Here at maniac Films we provided technical advice in preparing the films for DVD, created animated home page menus using existing artwork and built the DVD menu structure, before dispatching the final Dual Layer tapes to the replicators.

<Get more information about our DVD authoring and replication services here>..

May 2011 - Its a wrap on The Reverend.

Maniac Films have been back on set to shoot the final scenes of the new film The Reverend.
Mark Brindle from Maniac returned to Wales to resume his post as 1st AC / focus puller, second camera operator and grip assistant. Maniac Films are also providing camera rental and grip hire, including two Panasonic AF-101 cameras with Nanoflash recorders, tripods, jib arm, dolly and much more.
The first day, (well...night) of the shoot saw the arrival of Hollywood legend, Rutger Hauer, who was on set to portray Satan alongside Giovanni Lombardo Radice who was playing the part of The Almighty.
The film will also see a special appearance by North Devon legend, Trev 'Toes' Lumley! He was very excited to meet Rutger Hauer and you should be able to spot him in the film.

<more info on our equipment rental services>..

May 2011 - Stuart Brennan wins Welsh Bafta for Best Actor his role in Risen!

An amazing piece of news and a fantastic acheivement! Lead actor and producer Stuart Brennan has won the Bafta Cymru award for Best Actor
Stuart received the award on the night from Suzanne Packer, star of BBC drama Casualty. he took a night off from filming his new film, The Reverend, the receive the award and was back on set the very next day.
Stuart was also featured in a BBC Online news story about the event.
Speaking after the event, Stuart wrote "What an honour! Was a mad evening, red carpet, autographs, champagne, the lot! To top it off with the win was brilliant and such a result for everyone who worked on the film.".

For more info about Risen, See our dedicated Risen minisite

May 2011 - new Voigtländer 25mm f/0.95 Micro 4/3 lens for Panasonic AF101 rental..

Our new Voigtländer 25mm f/0.95 Micro 4/3 lens has finally arrived. We have waited for a while for one of these to become available to buy but the wait is over.
This lens is designed for use with the Panasonic AF-101 micro 4/3 camera which is available for hire from us.
This lens is ridiculously fast, we have tested it in very low lighting conditions and it performs well, and the depth of field is very, very shallow at f/0.95. We love it!

<more info on our equipment rental services>..

April 2011 - Screen legend Rutger Hauer joins the cast of The Reverend.

Currently filming on location, the producers of the upcoming film 'The Reverend' have just announced that screen legend Rutger Hauer has joined the cast as the Devil himself, playing opposite "The Almighty" (embodied by Giovanni Lombardo Radice).
Rutger Hauer is arguably most famous for his appearance in the 1982 science fiction film Blade Runner with Harrison Ford but he has starred in many other successful films since then.
The film will also star Shane Richie, Tamar Hassan, Emily Booth and horror film legend Doug Bradley (Pinhead in Hellraiser). For a more detailed cast listing see the IMDB listing

For more info about The Reverend, See our dedicated Reverend minisite

April 2011 - Stuart Brennan nominated for Welsh Bafta for his role in Risen

Yet another great piece of news from the Risen camp! Lead actor and producer Stuart Brennan has just received a Bafta Cymru nomination for Best actor
This is the latest in a long line of positive feedback about the film of which we at Maniac Films are very proud to have worked on.
The story was picked up on by our local paper the North Devon Journal and Maniac Films received recognition for our work on the film.
The awards take place on May 29th and we wish Stuart luck and hope he walks away with the award!

For more info about Risen, See our dedicated Risen minisite

April 2011 - FutureTech filming at Bristol University Faculty of Engineering.

At Bristol University they realize how important it is to encourage young school leavers to consider a university education, and this event, put on by the Electrical Engineering department, was all about creating some enthusiasm for future students.
Maniac Films were called in to document the day, recording the presentations and student reactions, all to be edited down into mini films for the web site.
On location were Stu, Matt and Mark from Maniac Films and work placement student Tim Attenburrow. We filmed on 3 Canon EOS 7D cameras and a Sony Z1, recording audio to an Edirol solid state recorder.

<more info on our Video production services>..

April 2011 - Interview filming for Bristol University Faculty of Engineering project films.

Engineering is a diverse and complicated subject, with research branching into many fields and disciplines.
In order to highlight some of the work that students have undertaken on their course, The Bristol University Faculty of Engineering have asked us to produce a series of short interviews.
The films will take a look at the work of a student, exploring the challenges, highlights and achievements involved in the process.
We even had the chance to play with a Formula One gearbox, which is being used as the basis for one students work.

<more info on our Video production services>..

April 2011 - Tim Attenburrow joins us for a weeks placement from university.

This week we welcome back a former Work Experience student, Tim Attenburrow, who joined us a couple of years ago.
Tim is now a student at Bournemouth University and this year will have to complete 6 weeks of work placement. In preparation for this he volunteered to work with us for a week.
Tim first joined us in Bristol to aid with filming interviews and a presentation day for local schools.
Back in the office he started work on synchronising camera feeds and also ventured out into the wilds of North Devon to shoot some spring scenic shots. The shot on the left is taken from his footage.

April 2011 - Filming starts on The Reverend - Maniac Films are providing crew and camera rental.

Maniac Films have just started work a new film with TRF ltd, 'The Reverend'.
Mark Brindle from Maniac will be on set working as 1st AC / focus puller, second camera operator and grip assistant. Maniac Films are also providing camera rental and grip hire, supplying two Panasonic AF-101 cameras with Nanoflash recorders, tripods, jib arm, dolly and much more.
The film is being directed by Risen director Neil Jones and stars Stuart Brennan. The film will also star Shane Richie, Tamar Hassan, Emily Booth and horror film legend Doug Bradley (Pinhead in Hellraiser). For a more detailed cast listing see the IMDB listing

For more info about The Reverend, See our dedicated Reverend minisite

March 2011 - Media & Innovation Awards nomination for North Devon Movie Bus DVDs

We are excited to announce that Maniac Films have just received a nomination for an award at the Media & Innovation Awards in the Installation/Exhibition/Live Events category.
This will be our 5th visit to the awards, having won two out of four previous nominations. Fingers crossed we can get a 3rd!
Stu from Maniac Films will be attending the ceremony in Plymouth with Emma Giffard and Ollie Halls from the Movie Bus and staff from the North Devon Museum, sponsors of the project.

<more info on our DVD mastering and duplication services>..

April 2011 - Interview filming for Bristol University Faculty of Engineering Buggy Day.

A highlight of the Bristol University Faculty of Engineering year is 'Buggy Day', an end of year project challenges the students to build a robot that can take on a series of challenges.
We also conducted interviews with students taking part throughout the day. This allowed us to capture both the nervous expectation, and the joys of success (or sadly in some cases - failure).
the film will appear on the Faculty web site when completed.

<more info on our Video production services>..

March 2011 - Genesis photo shoot with Nadine and Josh.

We have received more new clothing ranges from Genesis Surf Shop and this time we had a mix of mens and womens styles, enter Nadine and Josh, brother and sister from Ilfracombe
Despite having never modelled before, both took to it well after some encouragement and we got some great images which should be appearing online over the next few weeks.

Check out Genesis Surf Shop to see the new ranges now!

<more info on our product photography services>

April 2011 - Interview filming for Bristol University Faculty of Engineering admissions film.

There is no-one better to tell future students just how good it is to study engineering at Bristol than current students and staff! This is why we will be busy interviewing enthusiastic students and their tutors about the course, uni life and the city itself.
Filming is in the early stages and will be continuing for a few weeks, fitting our trips to Bristol around the students busy (end of year) timetables.
We will be filming in a number of locations around the university as well as conducting interviews for a couple of other projects with the Bristol University Faculty of Engineering

<more info on our Video production services>..

March 2011 - New Nanoflash solid state video recorder and 2nd Panasonic AG-AF101 HD video camera.

The NanoflashM is a solid state HD/SD or HDMI recorder/player from Convergent Media.
The unit records to MXF or QuickTime format using 2 x CompactFlash cards. It can be mounted to a camera or connected to any HD-SDI source via BNC coax. The nanoflash features HDMI in/Out, has 2 Compact Flash Slots.Up to 8 channels of quality audio embedded in the HD-SDI/HDMI stream.
We also have a specially designed mount that fits onto the Panasonic AF-101 allowing for secure mounting of the Nanoflash.
Finally we have a second Panasonic AF-101 camcorder available for rental. We love the look of the footage from our 1st camera and with the nanoflash unit, the results should be stunning.

<more info on our equipment rental services>..

March 2011 - North Devon Movie Bus DVD's go on sale

Is it really a year since we started on the Movie Bus project? Time moves so quickly. Almost a year to the day since Emma giffard contacted us for editing tuition and assistance with producing the 1st movie bus film, two compilation DVD's have just gone on sale.
Each DVD contains 4 of the 8 films as well as a 3min documentary about the restoration of the bus.
The DVD was designed, built, duplicated and printed here at Maniac and we are very pleased with the final product.
Stu from Maniac, who has worked on every film and the final DVDs said "This is the result of a years work, multiple edits and different versions and it's great to know that people can finally own a copy. I will miss working on the archive footage, it was fascinating".
The DVDs can be purchased from the bus or from the Barnstaple Museum. Visit the movie bus web site for more info.

<more info on our DVD mastering and duplication services>..

March 2011 - Mistheria Alien keyboards filming dates confirmed

After a slight delay...three years...we have just confirmed filming dates with Mistheria, the keyboard virtuoso from Italy. The filming has been delayed due to his touring schedule and recording a new album.
We will be filming a tuitional video, using a keytar, here in the UK in April 2011. Our original plan was to film at Misteria's home in Italy.
We are excited to be finally seeing the fruits of years of planning and can't wait to get started. Meanwhile you can listen to samples of his new album, see video clips and more on the Mistheria web site.

March 2011 - EX34 web site goes live

After two years of being "down for maintenance", (A polite way of saying we have no site) EX34 now has a brand new web site from Maniac Films.
The new site went live at the end of February and has already undergone a few minor cosmetic tweaks following user feedback. EX34 is a free magazine, providing news to residents living within the EX34 postcode area. The web site will provide a place to read the magazine online, comment on stories and find links to advertisers found in the mag.
Ant, the man behind EX34, is very pleased with the site and has featured it in the latest issue of EX34, giving thanks to us here at Maniac.
Check out the web site now at www.ex34.info.

<more info on our web site services>..

February 2011 - John Williams Live in Aichi DVD now complete and on-sale

We have just completed work on a new live music DVD starring world renowned guitarist John Williams and composer Richard Harvey.
The DVD was filmed on the duo's world tour in Aichi, Japan Expo in 2005. We received the edited film and were requested to compress and prepare the DVd for sale.
Unfortunately it was not that simple as there had been problems when the edited film was rendered before we received it. Mark Brindle form maniac first repaired, and then re-built the film before carrying out any DVD work.
But finally the DVD is ready and is now available for sale. You can buy it from the CD Souk web site.

<more info on our DVD mastering and duplication services>..

February 2011 - Risen wins 7 awards at 3 film festivals

Wow! What a great start for Risen: The Howard Winstone Story on the festival circuit.

At the Newport International Film Festival in Wales, Risen almost swept the board! The film was nominated in 6 categories and won five! These were: Best Film: 'Risen: The Howard Winstone Story', Best Director: Neil Jones for 'Risen', Best Actor: Stuart Brennan (Howard Winstone), Best Actress: Grainne Joughin (Benita Winstone) and Best Supporting Actor: Boyd Clack (Howard Winstone Snr).

At the Bootleg Film Festival in London, Neil Jones and Risen was awarded the original Vision award. "We were really impressed by this movie!"

Finally, at the New Jersey Film Festival in the USA, Risen won the Best Feature Film award.

For extended quotes and more info about Risen, See our dedicated Risen minisite

February 2011 - Genesis photo shoot with Ed.

New clothing ranges are arriving at Genesis Surf Shop and we are without our usual model Joel who is travelling. So taking his place is Ed, who has been helping to renovate the Genesis Ilfracombe store.
Robin from Genesis is pleased with our new male model. Sadly this will be the only time he will appear on the site as he will be moving back to new Zealand and we can't convince Rob to pay for our flights out there!

Check out Genesis Surf Shop to see the new ranges now!

<more info on our product photography services>

February 2011 - World Premiere of Masterpiece.

Sunday 6th February 2011, Cardiff. The stage was set for the world Premiere of Masterpiece, a new film directed by Andrew Tanner and produced by Burn Hand Films.
Principle filming was completed in 2010 and Maniac Films provided the kit to do it. We supplied HVX200 cameras, grip equipment, lighting and other tools for the shoot.
Mark Brindle, Associate Producer on the film, attended the Premiere along with the full cast and crew, "Director Andrew Tanner introduced the screening and appeared to be very nervous - but he needn't have been as the film was very well received.
You can view the trailer on Youtube - click here to see it.

<more info on our equipment rental services>..

February 2011 - Panasonic AG-AF101 HD video camera available for rental.

We now have the first of our new Panasonic AG-AF101 HD camcorders. These camera will serve as a direct replacement for our Panasonic HVX200 cameras.
The AG-AF101 is a professional AVCCAM Series HD camera equipped with the Micro Four Thirds optical system commonly used in digital single lens still cameras. It directly accommodates Micro Four Thirds digital single lens still camera lenses, and an adaptor can be used to mount 35 mm film camera lenses and prime lenses.
What this means is that you can get the look of shooting with a video DSLR, but without the associated issues caused by the hardware limitations.
The camera records in AVCHD to SD cards and can record up to full 1080 video at a range of frame rates and can output via HDMI or SDI.
We have more on the way and will be added to the site soon.

January 2011 - New Peter Bruntnell web site now online.

Local musician Peter Bruntnell has been without a web site for some time, but in January 2011, his online presence is restored in the form of a brand new web site from Maniac Films
PeterBruntnell.net is an online showcase for Peter, promoting his gigs, music and side projects. The site includes an online shop, allowing people to purchase his albums and tour DVD.
Check out the new web site at www.peterbruntnell.net and take a look at his gig dates to catch the man in action.

<more info on our web site services>..

January 2011 - GAA Gold film is second best selling sports DVD in 2010.

In October we completed work on the GAA Gold DVD in collaboration with Eurodiscs. We provided DVD authoring services for the film that was produced by the Irish Film Institute (IFI).
GAA Gold, which featured archive footage of the All Ireland Hurling Finals 1948-1959, was the 2nd biggest selling sports DVD in Ireland in 2010. This is made more impressive when you consider that the film was only completed and released for sale in October!
The film has sold out on Amazon, HMV and the GAA web site. At the time of writing, copies are still available on the IFI web site.

<more info on our DVD mastering and duplication services>..

January 2011 - New EX33 web site goes live!

EX33 now has a brand new web site from Maniac Films. The site has been has been "down for maintenance" for just over two years as Ant, the man behind EX33, was concentrating on other projects.
The new site went live in mid January. EX33 is a local magazine, providing news to residents living within the EX33 postcode area. The web site will provide a place to read the magazine online, comment on stories and find links to advertisers found in the mag.
Ant is very pleased with the site and has featured it in the February issue of EX33, giving thanks to us here at Maniac. The site will undergo tweak, nips and tucks through out the next month as Ant receives feedback from visitors.
Check out the web site now at www.ex33.co.uk.

<more info on our web site services>..

January 2011 - New Genesis Surf Shop online shop goes live!

After a major re-design and upgrade,the new Genesis Surf Shop web site went live on January 11th.
Mark Brindle from Maniac has worked closely with Genesis owner Robin to give the site a fresh, new look. It was a complete graphical overhaul with new branding, colour schemes and also a number of upgrades to the way the site works.
Robin is very pleased with the new site, "I love the new look! It looks a lot more professional and I'm really excited to see what our customers think."

<more info on our I'm services>..

January 2011 - COMING SOON - Panasonic AG-AF101 HD video cameras using Micro Four Thirds lenses.

We are excitedly awaiting the first of two new Panasonic AG-AF101 HD camcorders. These camera will serve as a direct replacement for our Panasonic HVX200 cameras.
The AG-AF101 is a professional AVCCAM Series HD camera equipped with the Micro Four Thirds optical system commonly used in digital single lens still cameras. It directly accommodates Micro Four Thirds digital single lens still camera lenses, and an adaptor can be used to mount 35 mm film camera lenses and prime lenses.
What this means is that you can get the look of shooting with a video DSLR, but without the associated issues caused by the hardware limitations.
The camera records in AVCHD to SD cards and can record up to full 1080 video at a range of frame rates and can output via HDMI or SDI.
We are looking forward to the arrival of the first camera and more information will be added when it does!

January 2011 - Cineroid HDMI EVF for Canon 7D and 5D.

We now have a new HDMI Electronic Viewfinder, the Cineroid EVF, which will make HDSLR shooting with the Canon ESO 7D and 5D a lot easier.
The unit features a 3.2" LCD screen used with a loupe and it works in the same way as the EVF on a ENG style camera. It has a range of features including Pixel to Pixel mapping, in-focus peaking, saturation zebra, under scan mode and a Monochrome mode.
The best thing is that this model features HDMI loop-through. This means that a second external preview monitor can be run from the same signal. This eliminates one of the biggest flaws of the HDSLR market, by delivering a low-weight replacement for the camera screen to be used by the operator and also allowing the director to see the action.

January 2011 - Risen gets US premiere and will feature at the Newport Film Festival

Since the World premiere of Risen: The Howard Winstone Story in Cardiff, the director and producers have been working hard to promote the film across the world.
Risen will have it's US premiere on January 21st as part of the prestigious New Jersey International Film Festival and Director Neil Jones will be in attendance with Start Brennan. Visit the Neil for more details.
On the 3rd February 2011, Risen will feature as part of the Newport International Film festival in Wales. Visit the Neil for more details
In a little bit of extra Risen news: It was announced in December that the UK distribution deal has been finalised and that Risen will receive a theatrical release. No info on how many screens and where the film can be seen but we will post any info we get. We can also look forward to a future DVD and maybe Blu-ray release as well.

December 2010 - Painting photography and site design for Katy Goodwin begins

We have started working on a brand new Good win for Croyde based seascape painter Katy Goodwin.
The aim of the Good win will be to promote her work and any upcoming exhibitions, as well as providing a platform to sell her work.

As part of the site creation, we are also photographing her paintings. Her pieces can vary from a 3x1' oil painting to a set of three that form one picture and huge 4x4ft canvasses. The challenge for us is to ensure that the photograph accurately portray the colours of the painting to truely show off her work.
We hope to have the portray online early in 2011 with more pieces being added as we receive them

<more info on our portray services>..

December 2010 - Fusion and Devon Lanes & Long boards selling well!

We have found ourselves meeting repeated requests for more copies of both Fusion and Devon Lanes & Long boards.
Fusion is a UK surf film by Ross John and is (at the time of writing) one of the top 10 recommended films to buy on magicseaweed.com.
Devon lanes & Long boards is a UK long board film by Andy Haworth. Every penny of profit goes towards cancer charities and at the time of writing has raised over £3500.
Both films are available to buy from our online shop

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