When we first saw the news about the ‘Coronavirus’ in January 2020, we were halfway through a ten day shoot. At that moment we never even imagined this kind of production would become almost impossible just a few months later. Everyone said it would pass. Oh how wrong we were! Fast forward to March 2020, and we were beginning to see the true impact of the pandemic, with the unimaginable loss, devastation and heartache being experienced across the globe. For the safety of the population, the UAE had shut its borders, told everyone to stay at home, and implemented a strict curfew. Against this backdrop, things were looking bleak for so many global businesses, including UAE production houses.
FINDING NEW WAYS TO WORK, FAST
As the UAE reacted decisively to minimize the human impact of the pandemic, our thoughts began to turn to how we were going to continue providing film production services when we can’t even leave our homes? We had to come up with alternatives, urgently. We developed innovative ways to film high-quality, remote interviews for clients like Dubai Tourism, and we got creative in post-production. We held daily Zoom calls with the team to keep morale up and arranged virtual courses for those who weren’t able to do their usual day jobs. Looking back, we’re really proud of how we all powered through.
Once the curfew relaxed a little, we were able to get back out into the field. The main priority was to create a safe working environment for our crew, cast and contributors and make sure we were minimising risk wherever possible.
RETURNING TO (THE NEW) NORMAL
Before we went back to shooting in the outside world, it was crucial we set up a process and way of working that wouldn’t compromise safety. This process is still in operation today and has enabled us to film COVID-focused documentaries and content for the likes of the Discovery Channel and Abu Dhabi Media, with our teams filming safely across Red Zones throughout the country.
We use reduced crew sizes, who all have PCR tests before stepping on set; we provide full PPE (Personal Protection Equipment) for the team; and always adhere to social distancing.
THE BEST PLACE IN THE WORST TIME
The UAE’s quick actions in the face of the global pandemic allowed us to get back to film production relatively quickly. Of course, we’ve had to make changes in the way we work, but our crew and clients have all embraced the new rules and worked professionally thoughout; making it possible to keep creating high quality content that we are extremely proud of.
ONWARDS AND UPWARDS
We now feel we are experts in this new way of filming, with some of our team members having had over 60 individual PCR tests! And we’ve developed a whole new approach to filming, which has made us a more versatile and resourceful company. By staying up to date with the Film Commission rules and best practices, we’re helping to show that creativity can thrive in a time of crisis, while making sure our people and partners are always protected.