Bray Studios
Bray Studios is a historic film and television studio located in Water Oakley, near Windsor in the Berkshire county of England. Here are some detailed points about Bray Studios:
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History: Bray Studios was established in 1951 by Hammer Film Productions, a company famous for its horror films. The studio's location was chosen for its proximity to London and its scenic surroundings, which often provided a backdrop for various film productions.
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Golden Era: During the 1950s and 1960s, Bray Studios became synonymous with Hammer Horror, producing numerous iconic films like "The Curse of Frankenstein" (1957), "Dracula" (1958), and "The Mummy" (1959). These films starred actors like Christopher Lee and Peter Cushing, who became staples of the Hammer Horror genre.
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Facilities: The studio complex includes several soundstages, production offices, workshops, and a backlot with various sets, including a mock village, which has been used in numerous productions. Over the years, Bray Studios has seen many expansions and upgrades to its facilities to cater to modern film and TV production needs.
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Notable Productions: Beyond horror, Bray Studios has been the site for many other notable films and TV shows:
- "Alien" (1979) - Some interior scenes were filmed at Bray.
- "The Rocky Horror Picture Show" (1975) - Parts of this cult classic were shot here.
- "The Legend of Hell House" (1973) - Another horror film not associated with Hammer.
- Various episodes of TV shows like "The Avengers" and "Doctor Who" were also filmed here.
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Current Status: In recent years, Bray Studios has continued to thrive, adapting to the changing landscape of film and television production. It was acquired by Pinewood Studios in 2011, which has helped in its modernization and expansion.
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Legacy: Bray Studios remains an important part of British film history, particularly in the horror genre. Its influence extends beyond the films produced there, contributing significantly to the cultural impact of British cinema.
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