By Chit Su

Myanmar’s filmmakers have long had to make do without a film studio, shooting films on location or even in their own homes.

That is set to change with the soon to be completed construction of the new Pin Lal film studio, located in North Okklapa, which is set to fill what many see as a gaping hole in Myanmar’s film industry.

The studio is owned by the Pin Lal film production company and spans a total area of 7500 square feet (700 square metres). Film director and owner of Pin Lal Productions, Na Gyi, said the studio – constructed by civil engineer Khin Maung Aye – had taken two years to build at a total cost of US$5million.

“I want to upgrade the Myanmar film industry,” said Na Gyi. “When we make films, the camera should be eight to 10 feet away from our subject in some scenes, but that can be impossible when we shoot films in people’s homes or on location. It’s a real problem for filmmakers.”

Some music videos are already being made at the new studio, although it has not officially opened due to ongoing construction. The studio features a multifunctional room, a greenscreen room for special effects, a setting room and a stage.

“I am currently creating a sound studio as well, but it is not finished yet. All the walls are hollow inside and completely mobile. The studio is also soundproof, so a number of movies can be shot at the same time,” Na Gyi said.

The studio will be used by other production companies as well as Pin Lal Productions. The studio is available for hire with prices starting from around US$300 for one room.