Walt Disney Studios gave an assurance yesterday that it has no plans to halt filming on Pirates of the Caribbean II and III in Grand Bahama because of a slew of thefts from some cast and crew members, tourism officials reported.
In fact, Disney officials sought to distance themselves from statements that were attributed to Jason Kakebeen, which said the incidents had threatened The Bahamas’ status as a film location.
Releasing a press statement, Walt Disney Studios said Mr. Kakebeen was not a spokesperson for the company and was simply hired as an extra in the upcoming Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man’s Chest.
“His remarks do not reflect the opinion of Disney,” the statement said. “At no time was production interrupted and we continue to enjoy a cooperative and productive relationship with the Bahamian government.”
The films are projected to pump $30 million into an ailing Grand Bahama economy.
Lucaya police told the Bahama Journal that there were several thefts that occurred this month at the hotel rooms and private residences of cast and crew members, but classified the incidents as isolated.
Bandits were accused of stealing electronic equipment and cash. But Inspector Wendel Smith said three persons had already been arrested and arraigned in court; one of them was remanded to prison while the two others were released on bail.
“There has been no matter reported from the actual film site-because there is a 24 hour police and security presence,” said Inspector Smith. “These persons were not targeted because there were other incidents at the Port Lucaya Resort around the same time frame and those had nothing to do with the cast and crew.”
The Ministry of Tourism also indicated that it is concerned about incidents of crime, including those that are committed against visitors.
“The ministry is concerned whenever a crime of any kind affects our guests,” said Basil Smith, director of communications. “This concern is shared by our police force and all responsible Bahamians.”
Mr. Kakebeen claimed that crew members and some of the films’ actors were robbed four times over a one-month period while on location in Grand Bahama, with approximately $20,000 worth of equipment and cheques being stolen.
He also alleged that top movie companies decided not to do business in Grand Bahama and threatened further consequences if the matter was not resolved satisfactorily.
Officials are counting on a significant economic impact from the filming of ‘Pirates of the Caribbean II & III.’
Government officials have said the Disney deal would pump some $30 million into the island’s economy, and indicated that the production could open up a myriad of employment and training opportunities for residents interested in being part of the movie business.
The Ministry of Tourism had anticipated peak business levels, projecting an average of 200 room nights over eight weeks and a payout in room revenue in excess of $1 million.
The films are being shot at the Bahamas Films studios at Gold Rock Creek in East Grand Bahama.
Disney production crews returned to the island following a summer hiatus, and casting crews were in search of hundreds of male movie extras in preparation for filming, according to Tom Gustafson, regional casting director for Disney.
Close to 1,000 residents turned out for Disney’s first casting call held several months ago.
By: Tameka Lundy, The Bahama Journal
