Star Wars First A.D. Tommy Gormley Calls for New Studio Facilities in Scotland

October 2024 · 4 minute read

Tommy Gormley (right) meets with students from the University of the West of Scotland

Tommy Gormley, the first assistant director and associate producer on “Star Wars: The Force Awakens,” has added his voice to calls for the building of a major film studio in Scotland.

Gormley, who has served as first A.D. on all of J.J. Abrams’ films, picked up BAFTA’s outstanding contribution to craft award on Sunday. His credits also include “John Carter,” “Mission: Impossible — Ghost Protocol” and Roland Emmerich’s “2012.”

In a statement, Gormley said: “Scotland is full of talented individuals and is blessed with being one of the most visually stunning countries in the world. It has incredible culture, varied architecture and spectacular scenery, making it an ideal filming location.”

He added: “More and more, the larger studios are looking away from Hollywood, and Scotland is ideally placed to take advantage of this, with the correct investment. There is huge potential here, but other similar-sized nations already have studio facilities, so it’s important that action is taken now to seize these opportunities.”

Earlier this week, Gormley met students from the University of the West of Scotland, which plans to launch masters programs in filmmaking and screenwriting next year.

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He said: “UWS is establishing itself as a real center for excellence for film and the creative industries. And there’s no reason why it can’t be at the center of a rejuvenated Scottish film industry.”

Nick Higgins, director of UWS’ Creative Media Academy, is backing proposals to build a film and television studio at Pacific Quay, Glasgow.

“It is now clearly evident that Scotland could and should have a studio, and if professionals as respected in the industry as Tommy believe it would be a success, and stimulate the Scottish film industry, people should sit up and take notice.”

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