Great Point Studios officially opens doors in Buffalo

Buffalo, N.Y. (WBEN) - After years of planning, Great Point Studios finally opened its doors for business after a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Thursday.

The $50 million, 20,000 square foot, state-of-the-art studio facility provides everything for local and world-renowned filmmakers to produce high-quality content.

Buffalo Mayor Byron Brown describes the facility as an incredible opportunity for the city to stand out in the film world.

"This is a huge addition to the arts in the City of Buffalo. The opening of Great Point Studios will grow on our city's reputation as a film-making destination," Brown stated during the ceremony. "Buffalo has a tradition of embracing creativity and innovation. Great Point Studios will play a major role in helping Buffalo to become one of the most sought-after film destinations in the county."

After the ceremony, award winning TV writer, Tom Fontana stated that having this site is a valuable tool for the community, and reinforces creativity for filmmakers by providing the resources they need.

"I think it gives us all an incentive to make the films and television shows that we are passionate about. When you know that you have a space that will protect you and care for you, it gives you a real sense of security once you start filming," said Fontana in an interview with WBEN.

Casting Director and Co-Founder of Casting Buffalo, Kyle Mecca, was also at the ceremony on Thursday, saying Great Point Studios will be a hub for getting actors in Buffalo.

"We are that middle-man to help get local talent from here, to Central New York and beyond, to get to be able to get on this stage," Mecca stated. "We have an amazing relationships with the big players here in Buffalo, including the people who created this building. We are so excited to make that dream a reality for actors, and for crew, and everything possible. If you're interested to one-day be on this stage and act inside this stage, and be a part of a movie here, go to castingbuffalo.com, become part of the movies."