RealSFX fires up new Bristol branch at The Bottle Yard Studios

Headquartered in Cardiff, RealSFX is one of the UK’s leading special effects companies. Founded in 2008, it has become a trusted name in the industry having worked on major titles including BBC dramas Doctor Who and Peaky Blinders, Netflix hits You and Fool Me Once, and feature films such as The Expendables 4. Covering the whole of the UK, the company’s specialist expertise includes Pyrotechnics (e.g. explosions and fire effects), Atmospheric Effects (e.g. fog, smoke, rain, and wind), Mechanical Effects (e.g. custom-built rigs and mechanisms for action sequences) and Environmental Effects (e.g. simulations of natural phenomena like storms and floods).

Real SFX has also launched KIT4CREW, a new sustainable initiative designed to make use of unused or unwanted creative industry workwear. The Bottle Yard Studios fully supports the scheme, and has stationed donation bins in numerous locations at its two sites. The initiative saw Real SFX named Green Business of the Year at the 2024 South Wales Business Awards last month.

Danny Hargreaves, Real SFX Founder and Company Director, says: “We are absolutely thrilled to be opening a Real SFX workshop at The Bottle Yard in Bristol. Expanding our presence to this vibrant and creative hub marks a significant milestone for Real SFX. The Bottle Yard offers a unique environment that aligns perfectly with our commitment to excellence and innovation in special effects, and the promotion of sustainability in the industry.

“We were keen to strengthen our presence within Bristol, and The Bottle Yard was the natural choice for this expansion. We will be utilising our skilled crew in the area and also offering new training and job opportunities to bring more talent into the industry, either by upskilling local professionals such as electricians, engineers and carpenters, or by supporting new entrants. This move not only enhances our ability to serve our clients better but also reinforces our role in the UK's thriving film and TV industry. We look forward to contributing to the innovative projects and exciting developments happening at The Bottle Yard.”

Laura Aviles, Head of Film, Bristol City Council, says: “We are delighted to welcome Real SFX to The Bottle Yard Studios. With an exceptional track record in the special effects field and a strong commitment to supporting our sustainability and skills development aims, they are a fantastic addition to our Creative Hub.”

The Bottle Yard’s Creative Hub consists of more than 15 businesses permanently based on site, providing a range of specialist film and TV services. These include broadcast equipment hire, café, camera rental, casting, chauffeur services, costume hire, drapery, education & skills provision, grips, IT support, lighting, location safety, props, rigging, security services, set construction, set repurposing and transport. View the companies here.