CHICAGO - Resolution Digital Studios (www.ResolutionDigitalStudios.com) will open the doors to its new $7.5 million dollar, multi-level, high definition complex this spring. The 32,000-square foot production and post complex - built from the ground up - is the newest division of Show Department, Inc., an international staging company founded by Lee Facklis and Jeff Facklis in 1983 and still owned and operated by the brothers today.
The new studio complex stands adjacent to Show Department's existing 50,000-square foot building and is located at 2226 W. Walnut Street on the city's west side. Construction of the three-story RDS complex began in August of 2003. Show Department's general manager, John Kavanagh, estimates RDS construction costs at $4.5 million, plus an additional $3 million in equipment and support investments.
The complex's three floors offers ample production space with cyc walls, greenscreen capabilities and an operational sets. A roof-top deck provides 360 degree views, including that of the city's skyline.
High definition gear on-hand includes Sony F900/3 1080/24p cameras along with Avid Nitris HD, Avid Adrenaline and Apple Final Cut Pro edit suites. A Digidesign ProTools|HD audio suite rounds out the post capabilities.
Evie Silvers will serve as the studio's full-time sales manager when it opens this spring. A 15-year production veteran, formerly with Post Effects, Evie will oversee all aspects of facility sales.
"This facility is large and extremely versatile - it allows us to serve a diverse customer base," Silvers notes, "from independent or Hollywood filmmakers to commercial spot production, Webcasting, rehearsal space, corporate meetings, parties and special events. We are making a serious effort to bring film and production back to Chicago."