PARKSVILLE — Beaverkill Studio's first day of official existence featured, appropriately enough, the screening of a short film (with an even shorter name), “Chuck.”

Created by Claire Coleman and Joanna Hartell, the 10-minute reel uncovered the mysteries of a man who moved late in his life to Livingston Manor and left an intriguing trove of “selfie” photos and other memorabilia after his passing.

Projected onto the Studio's otherwise-featureless cyclorama Saturday, the short proved a perfect way to celebrate the birth of a unique Sullivan County business.

“It isn't such a weird idea as it used to be,” laughed creator and owner RJ Baker, who in 2003 bought what was long ago Parksville's feed store.

The rough-hewn timbers and an antique wheel which once hauled bags of feed to the second floor are all that's left of that era.

Today, the 10,000-square-foot structure houses a fully outfitted studio: green screen, fiber-optics for live feeds, sound booth, carpentry shop, prop room, two editing suites, a screening lounge, and lodging and dining facilities sufficient to handle a dozen cast and crew. It's all overseen by Chief Production Officer James Karpowicz.

Baker has also purchased the former Big Daddie's restaurant next door, retitling it Big Wadie's (after husband Wade St. Germain) with an aim of providing on-site catering.

“It's really exciting to see what they've done here,” admired Liberty Town Supervisor Charlie Barbuti, who attended Saturday's grand opening. “[I'm glad] to see this kind of investment in Parksville. It's very encouraging.”

And more's to come.

“I would love to be able to have a huge backlot, to be able to create an economy up here,” RJ related.

That's the thought behind the formation of the Catskill Film Commission, which RJ, the Sullivan County Visitors Association and others are developing.

“We're gathering a list of shooting locations,” he explained. “Why do they [film and TV crews] all have to go back into the city? We have roads for car chases, for aliens, for horror movies.”

Companies are taking note, he added, with the Studio already renting space and equipment this month for various shoots.

“I'm excited!” he said.

To explore further, visit www.beaverkillstudio.com.