In 2018, Getaway Productions, a local film company, managed the production of a UK film “Carnage” shot on a private farm in the Western Cape Tankwa Karoo. The film was paid for from the UK – a cost of R74m. It emerged, contrary to expectations, that filming on private farms was governed by environmental legislation. This resulted in production delays. These delays were compounded when the Department of Environmental Affairs (DEADP) insisted on a permit. This is typically a 109-day process which put the production in jeopardy.
The RTRU intervened and was able to arrange a meeting with the DEADP within a week. The legislative conditions were explained to the production team and a more suitable location on the farm was found. This new location complied with both the necessary legislative and production requirements. The location was set up and shooting was finished within the stipulated time schedules.
The direct benefit was an injection of R74 million into the provincial economy, with extensive secondary economic benefits for local businesses providing catering, accommodation, fuel and other services, such as maintenance and security. This while securing the reputation of the Western Cape as an attractive proposition for international filming.