Quote:
Originally posted by Tony Smith
What a sad loss of irreplaceable militaria. With respect to Mr Newby though, wasn't it a little silly to use genuine gear to equip 150 extra's for a film? Not in the expectation that the stuff will be souvenired, but knowing that there will be wear and tear, knowing that they will be covered in mud and movie blood? Sure, for a close-up of a particular character an original badge or uniform might be required, but for the bulk of the actors reproduction gear such as that made by Lawrance Ordnance would have been better than risking damaging a $2000 original.
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It is indeed sad news. I know Ian well and have visited his farm in Aldergrove many times. I bought my 1976 Chev 5/4 ton from him. Ian was a gracious host, when he wasn't busy and let me wander through his buildings looking at his SUBSTANTIAL collection of vehicles and uniforms. Ian estimated that he had over 10,000 uniforms of various vintages!
I understand your sentiments Tony. I know a few people involved in supplying kit and weapons to the movie industry in and around Vancouver. The movie industry in B.C. has grown to tremendous proportions in recent years, surmounting one billion dollars annually years ago. One of the reasons for the exponential growth of the movie industry in B.C. is that people like Ian Newby, Tom Bongalis, et al can provide whatever is required to kit out the actors. Of course, the items are insured, but that is small relief for the loss of some of the rarest items. When the movie industry asked for something, the suppliers of B.C. responded. That kind of cooperation has allowed B.C. to become "Hollywood North." Unfortunately, theft is one of the prices we've had to pay. Many will remember that during the filming of "Rambo" the production moved to the Capilano river canyon in North Vancouver. Many of the M16's were stolen from a lock up on the movie set creating a huge furor. I don't remember if any of the rifles were ever recovered. Hopefully the actors involved will feel some level of shame and return the kit to Ian. In the future, I'm sure there will be some level of financial responsibility attached to the actors when kit is issued.
CHIMO!