U.K.-based Hocus Products will launch the Axis1 at NAB – a new wireless remote follow focus system for cine lenses. Production has already started and the first units are expected to ship towards the end of April.
“This new product is designed specifically for the top movie production market where good design, reliability and ease of use are paramount,” said company MD and system designer Peter Hoare. “The system is built to be simple, straightforward, robust and easy to use – there are no silly features and nothing that you need to get the manual out for. Rental companies have tried it and already love it.”
“I have this philosophy which I call OBOF – One Button One Function – no multiple button pushes or complicated menus to call up a function – that’s just not practical in a high-pressure shooting situation.”
Although aimed at Hollywood and other higher end movie production markets, it will also appeal to Steadicam owner operators and focus pullers who want their own remote focus device.
“The new digital drive motor is the cornerstone of the Axis1,” Hoare explained. “It is compatible with many other existing follow focus devices, supports auto end stops and auto torque calibration with our receiver so that there is always just sufficient power to rotate the lens without the risk of damage. The motor uses a unique drive train which leaves it with only two moving parts, resulting in almost silent, and very reliable operation.”
An earlier product – the Hocus Focus was a low cost solution for DSLR, SLR and broadcast lenses, and continues to sell worldwide. While it handles these types of lenses very effectively, it was not intended for large, heavy cine lenses used by most professional filmmakers.
