MELS, a prominent post-production company in Canada, is set to close its Quebec facility that houses one of the few film development laboratories in North America. The decision to shut down the photochemical lab was confirmed by Patrick Jutras, the president of Montreal’s MELS studio. Jutras cited the lack of competitive tax incentives to attract foreign productions to the city and a decrease in local audiovisual production investment as reasons for the closure.
While MELS itself will remain operational, certain post-production services will be relocated and consolidated to align with market demands and maintain profitability. Consequently, the photochemical lab and a projection room will be closed, with the remaining post-production activities being transferred to a new site.
In a statement originally provided in French to CBC, Jutras acknowledged the sentimental value attached to the facilities, especially the unique analog film laboratory, and emphasized the need for urgent government intervention to support the struggling local audiovisual sector and preserve Quebec’s expertise in the industry.
The closure of MELS’ photochemical lab comes at a time when the film industry is predominantly adopting digital production methods. MELS’ lab is recognized as one of the three “full service” development labs on the continent, capable of processing 6,100 meters of film daily, alongside facilities in L.A. and Atlanta. Over the years, the lab has contributed to the production of various films, including notable works like “Dream Scenario,” “Universal Language,” “Mommy,” and several Quebec-made movies that have gained international recognition.
Following the announcement of the lab’s closure, a petition was initiated by film professor Michael Yaroshevsky to save the photochemical studio. The petition has garnered over 2,500 signatures, underscoring the importance of preserving film as a medium for local filmmakers and students despite the dominance of digital technology in the industry.
MELS, a subsidiary of Quebecor, has not yet responded to requests for comment. Despite the recent decline in French language Canadian film box office revenue, the Quebec government has unveiled a substantial investment plan to support the audiovisual industry and address evolving consumer trends driven by artificial intelligence and digital platforms.