LONDON, Feb 9, 2022 (BSS/AFP) - Amazon streaming service Prime Video on
Wednesday announced a major "long-term" deal for exclusive use of new
production facilities at studios near London, further boosting Britain's
booming film industry.

   The "landmark multimillion-pound... contract with Shepperton Studios" was
for "original TV series and movie productions", its owner Pinewood Group said
in a statement.

   On completion of the new facilities next year, Shepperton Studios will be
the second largest in the world with 31 purpose-built stages, according to
Pinewood Group chairman Paul Golding.

   "This... commitment to Shepperton supports our considerable investment in
this fantastic studio," he added.

   Finance minister Rishi Sunak said the Amazon deal represented a boost to
the UK economy.

   "The investment will drive growth and create jobs," he added in the joint
statement.

   Britain's renowned film industry has been boosted in recent years by
online players, including also Netflix, seeking facilities for their own
productions.

   At the same time, the pandemic has triggered a surge in the streaming of
films and television shows, benefitting also the likes of Disney.

   Shepperton studios, situated just south of London, has also struck an
agreement with Netflix, broadcaster of "The Crown" -- the hit series
chronicling the life of Queen Elizabeth II.

   "Shepperton has long been synonymous with top-tier television and movies
and we're proud that it will be home to many Prime Video original productions
in the years to come," Jennifer Salke, head of Amazon Studios, added
Wednesday.

   Amazon Studios recently announced that it was switching production of the
second season of its Lord Of The Rings series to the UK from New Zealand.

   It comes as US-owned entertainment groups Sky and Sunset Studios are in
the process of building separate film and television studios close to London
to help meet strong demand for streamed content.