MAX Flexes Muscle On Set Of 'Iron Man'

Matthews Grip's mighty MAX has recently returned home, from an intensive work schedule on Marvel Studios/Paramount Pictures action drama 'Iron Man'.
Based on the long-running Marvel comic book series, Iron Man tells the story of Tony Stark (played by Robert Downey Jr.) the enigmatic heir to the Stark Enterprises fortune.
"Whenever possible, I like to keep set ups as simple as possible with the least amount of equipment in the way of the actors," said cinematographer Matthew Libatique ASC (The Number 23, Inside Man, Gothika, Phone Booth). "MAX was a great help." Libatique said: "The set had very high ceilings, which made it difficult to get angles on backlight and separation. The MAX allowed us to get the light in the correct position without the disruption of ladders and rigging overhead. The footprint and the counterbalance make it much more convenient than previously used menace arms and C-booms."
MAX, manufactured by Matthews Studio Equipment, is a mechanical, articulated arm that will allow the placement of almost any light - anywhere on set or location. With a maximum elevation of 20 feet, MAX also functions at a negative declination of six feet. MAX is a perfect answer to many production lighting problems on set or location.
Matthews Studio Equipment is an established manufacturer of industry specialized hardware and lighting control devices. Based in Burbank, California, USA, Matthews supports productions in over 60 countries throughout the world.
(DS/SP)