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  21 May 2013

  Free Registration Opens for London UK TV Tax Relief Seminar

  Our second event in the series of free seminars across the UK: Understanding the TV Tax Relief in partnership with the British Film Commission, is now open for free registration. If you want to grasp how the tax relief works and have all of your questions answered by the leading experts, just as we begin to see more high-end television dramas hit our shores, registration is now open industry-wide.

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  The event is being run in association with PG affiliate, Saffery Champness alongside Film London and is being held at Saffery Champness, Lion House, Red Lion Street, WC1R 4GB London on Wednesday 12th June 2013 at 4.30pm.

  Expert first-hand knowledge will be given by some of the major players who developed and lobbied for the tax relief, including speakers from PG affiliates Saffery Champness, Wiggin LLP and Coutts, plus Creative Skillset.

  Please click here to see the invitation to the London event for more information.

  Booking via Eventbrite is essential, and reservations are on a first come first served basis. Please click here to register.

  Registration is also still open for our TV Tax Relief seminar at Pinewood Studios on 30th May. To book, please click here.

  Dates for additional seminars will be announced shortly, which will includeManchester; Bristol; Cardiff; and Glasgow events. If you would like to be notified when registration is open for any of these future events, please e-mail pg@productionguild.com or keep an eye on http://www.productionguild.com/events/Seminars for further updates.

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  20 May 2013

  Film London Names Deborah Sathe as Head of Talent Development & Production

  Film London announces Deborah Sathe as its new Head of Talent Development and Production. Heading up Film London's talent development strategy, Sathe will be responsible for the agency's shorts and feature length productions schemes, including the award-winning Film London Microwave, as well its range of training initiatives.

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  Whilst sustaining and managing Film London's current schemes, Sathe is also charged with developing and delivering a dynamic digital production strategy, re-invigorating Film London's approach by embracing the opportunities presented by the digital age for London's emerging talent.

  Adrian Wootton, Chief Executive of Film London and the British Film Commission, said: "We are delighted to welcome Deborah to Film London and look forward to working with her to drive our talent development strategy forward."

  He continued, "Over the last 10 years we have had enormous success with schemes such as Microwave and the London Borough Film Fund Challenge, and I'm excited to develop these further as well as create new opportunities for London's film-making talent. We have a strong track record of delivering innovative production schemes for the capital, and I look forward to implementing an exciting new digital strategy and confident Deborah can successfully spearhead that work."

  Deborah Sathe, Head of Talent Development and Production, commented: "I am delighted to become part of the Film London Team. I am passionate about nurturing new talent and delivering contemporary drama to big audiences."

  She continued, "As part of my role as Head of Talent Development and Production I will be leading Film London into the digital arena. Together we will develop new partnerships that will enable Film London to nurture and deliver high quality drama online as well as in cinemas. I am really excited to have the opportunity to work on Film London's successful Microwave Scheme, and their numerous other projects."

  David Parfitt, Chair of Film London, said: "This is an exciting time to invigorate Film London's production strategy, our central aim remains to discover and nurture new talent in the capital and give them to tools and the training to kick start careers. I am very pleased to welcome Deborah to the team and think her experience will ensure Film London continues to lead the way in supporting new talent."

  Sathe joins the capital's film and media agency from BBC Drama where she was a Digital Drama Producer. Previously Sathe was a Story Producer on EastEnders and whilst there produced three digital films.

  She was also the Creative Producer on the Webby Award Winning EastEnders: E20. Creating three series of the show, E20 was underpinned by an innovative digital strategy which successfully engaged with hard to reach talent as well as deliver a loyal audience. For her work on the series Sathe won Channel 4's Women in Film & Television's Creative Innovation Award.

  Sathe started her career at the Leicester Haymarket Theatre as Director of Aurat. After directing at many theatres across London and the UK she became Producer at the Theatre Royal Stratford East before joining the BBC.

  Film London announced in February that Maggie Ellis, its former Head of Production and Talent Development, is now Head of Artists' Moving Image.

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  17 May 2013

  Film Finances to Acquire International Film Guarantors Assets in FFIC Agreement

  Fireman's Fund Insurance Company has announced a new agreement to become an insurer of Film Finances, a global leader in film completion guarantees. As part of this new relationship, Film Finances will acquire certain assets of Fireman's Fund subsidiary and Production Guild affiliate, International Film Guarantors (IFG), which currently distributes and manages film completion guarantees underwritten by Fireman's Fund.

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  Film completion guarantees provide assurance to banks, major film studios and distributors that a production will be completed on schedule and on budget. The deal is expected to close by July 1, 2013.

  Lori Fouché, President and CEO of Fireman's Fund stated, "With the strength and rich histories of Fireman's Fund and Film Finances, customers will benefit from the broad expertise of completion guarantee specialists, and increased access to the global insurance solutions of Fireman's Fund."

  Steve Ransohoff, copresident of Film Finances commented, "We are excited about this new relationship with Fireman's Fund as together we have more than 100 years of entertainment experience, and will now be able to better serve customers around the world."

  As a member of the Allianz Group, one of the world's largest providers of property and casualty insurance, Fireman's Fund can offer customers global access, flexible insurance coverages, and high limits as a result of its financial strength and international presence.

  Lauren Bailey, Vice President of Entertainment at Fireman's Fund said, "Allianz's financial strength and global position blends well with the increasingly global nature of the entertainment industry. Through this newrelationship with Film Finances, we now can offer a network of experts forthis important business in major entertainment markets around the world."

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  16 May 2013

  Warner Bros. to Realign TV and Home Entertainment Operations

  Warner Bros. today announced a strategic realignment of its television and home entertainment operations including new appointments at executive and senior management levels. The company stated that the changes have been put in place to continue the Studio's focus on producing the world's best content while maximizing its value by taking full advantage of every current and emerging exhibition platform. The organisational changes were announced by Kevin Tsujihara, CEO, Warner Bros.

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  "The digital revolution continues to change every aspect of the way we do business, and this strategic realignment will help us address those changes to better deliver our world–class content to the widest array of consumers across the globe," said Tsujihara.

  He continued, "Warner Bros. has the world's best television series, films, games and original digital content, and we are committed to maximizing its value to the company, our creative partners and, ultimately, consumers."

  Under this realignment, which is effective immediately, the Studio's worldwide television operations will be overseen by a team of longstanding executives responsible for global production and distribution; the Studio's digital strategy will be consolidated under a Chief Digital Officer; and various home entertainment functions will be reassigned.

  "One of Warner Bros.' greatest strengths has always been its people, and this realignment will tap into the expertise and experience of a number of the company's longstanding executives," said Barry Meyer, Chairman, Warner Bros.

  Meyer continued, "The Studio and its leadership have a legacy of adapting and evolving to meet and exceed consumers' demands. The changes announced today continue that tradition and solidly position us for future success."

  In television, Peter Roth will now serve as President and Chief Content Officer, Warner Bros. Television Group, while retaining his title and responsibilities as President, Warner Bros. Television, Warner Horizon Television and Animation. He will add creative oversight of Telepictures Productions and Warner Bros. International Television Production to his responsibilities.

  Craig Hunegs will now serve as President, Business and Strategy, Warner Bros. Television Group, with responsibility for the business operations of the Group. He will also be responsible for windowing strategies and expanding production businesses. Additionally, Hunegs will join the boards of both The CW Network and Shed Media.

  Jeffrey Schlesinger will now serve as President, Warner Bros. Worldwide Television Distribution and be responsible for distribution of the Studio's content to all television platforms worldwide, including the sale of previously produced series and feature films to U.S. broadcast and cable outlets, domestic syndication and sales to SVOD and AVOD platforms. He will also continue to be responsible for the business operations of WBITVP.

  Roth, Hunegs and Schlesinger will all report directly to Tsujihara. Roth and Schlesinger will share oversight of Warner Bros. Worldwide Television Marketing, headed by Lisa Gregorian, Chief Marketing Officer, Warner Bros. Television Group.

  Thomas Gewecke, previously President, Warner Bros. Digital Distribution, has been named Chief Digital Officer and Executive Vice President, Strategy and Business Development, Warner Bros. Entertainment, and is responsible for driving the Studio's worldwide digital growth and managing its global business strategy.

  He will further be charged with coordinating the company's various digital distribution strategies to maximize the value of all of Warner Bros.' content across all current and emerging digital exhibition platforms (SVOD and TVOD functions will continue to be managed by the Television and Home Entertainment Groups).

  Gewecke will additionally oversee Warner Bros. Technical Operations, Corporate Business Development, and Home Entertainment's Direct–to–Consumer, Business Development and Flixster groups. Gewecke will report directly to Tsujihara.

  In Home Entertainment, Ron Sanders, formerly President, Warner Home Video, will become President, Warner Bros. Worldwide Home Entertainment Distribution. In this new role, Sanders will expand his purview to include global digital transactional business (electronic sell–through and VOD), as well as the global distribution activities of Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment (WBIE).

  Additionally, Sanders will help expand the retail distribution of DC Entertainment products, working closely with DCE's President, Diane Nelson. Sanders will report directly to Tsujihara.

  Diane Nelson remains President, DC Entertainment, which continues to be a stand–alone entity under Warner Bros. Entertainment, and she will now have a dual report to Tsujihara and Jeff Robinov, President, Warner Bros. Pictures Group. Nelson adds responsibilities as President and Chief Content Officer for WBIE, where she will oversee the development, production and marketing of all video game titles for WBIE, including those based on DC characters, as well as other Warner Bros. properties and original IP. In this capacity, she will work closely with WBIE's President, Martin Tremblay, who will now report to Nelson and Sanders. 

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  16 May 2013

  Pinewood Studios' £200m Expansion Plan Rejected by Local Council

  At a meeting of South Bucks District Council ("SBDC") Planning Committee on 15 May 2013, Pinewood's planning application for an increase in studio capacity by circa 100,000 square metres was refused. 

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  Ivan Dunleavy, Chief Executive, Pinewood Shepperton plc commented, "This is a disappointing decision by the local planning authority. It is hard to believe, given the country's economic difficulties that SBDC would turn down a £200m project creating 3,100 jobs in the vibrant and growing film and television sectors."

  He continued, "The Company remains committed to the Pinewood Studios Development Framework and we will be studying the decision with our legal and planning team and expect to appeal the decision to the Secretary of State."

  On 1 February 2013, following extensive public consultation with a wide range of local and national stakeholders, as well as with producers and developers of creative content, the Company submitted a planning application to SBDC for the expansion of Pinewood Studios called the Pinewood Studio Development Framework.

  The Pinewood Studios Development Framework is a long term scheme of national significance designed to address increasing global demand for capacity in the UK and deliver growth for the next 15-20 years.

  It comprises a substantial expansion of the existing Pinewood Studios by adding a total of 100,000 sq m of new facilities, including studios and stages, workshops, production offices and streetscapes for filming.

  Once complete, this would make a major contribution to achieving Government priority objectives to grow the UK's creative industries, promote growth and create new jobs.

  A website containing further details and visual images of the scheme is available at http://www.pinewoodgroup.com/pinewoodexpansion. 

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  15 May 2013

  Star Wars to Return to UK for Feature Film Production

  Lucasfilm has announced that production of Star Wars: Episode VII will take place in the United Kingdom. All of the six previous live-action Star Wars movies have included UK production in such famed studios as Elstree, Shepperton, Leavesden, Ealing and Pinewood Studios.

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  Kathleen Kennedy, President of Lucasfilm stated, "We've devoted serious time and attention to revisiting the origins of Star Wars as inspiration for our process on the new movie, and I'm thrilled that returning to the UK for production and utilizing the incredible talent there can be a part of that. Speaking from my own longstanding connection to the UK with films like Raiders of the Lost Ark, Empire of the Sun and recently War Horse, it's very exciting to be heading back."

  Earlier this year, representatives from Lucasfilm met with the Chancellor of the Exchequer, George Osborne, in London to establish an agreement to produce Star Wars in the U.K. "I am delighted that Star Wars is coming back to Britain. Today's announcement that the next Star Wars film will be shot and produced in the UK is great news for fans and our creative industries," Osborne said.

  Iain Smith, Chair of the British Film Commission and Production Guild Board Member commented, "We are delighted to welcome Star Wars back to the UK. I believe we have an unparalleled offer in terms of our skills and talent and this announcement is yet another vote of confidence for our infrastructure and the quality of our facilities. I would like to thank the government for their ongoing support of the film and television industries, which in return delivers jobs for the UK and boosts the economy."

  Adrian Wootton, Chief Executive of the British Film Commission and Film London said, "The British Film Commission, alongside government and our industry colleagues have worked hard to make sure this project came to the UK and we look forward to continuing to collaborate with Lucasfilm throughout the production so they can utilise everything the UK has to offer. Helping to secure an inward investment project of this size is exactly what the BFC is here to do and today's announcement is a great success story. It is an indication of how well regarded our talent and facilities are across the globe and testament to the government's ongoing commitment to ensuring the UK is a world centre for the production industries."

  Star Wars: Episode VII will be directed by J.J. Abrams from a screenplay by Michael Arndt and is scheduled for a 2015 release. 

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  14 May 2013

  UK TV Tax Relief Seminar Series to be Run Nationwide by BFC and PG

  The Production Guild is pleased to be working in partnership with the British Film Commission in presenting a series of free seminars across the UK: Understanding the TV Tax Relief.  If you want to grasp how the tax relief works and have all of your questions answered by the leading experts, just as we begin to see more high-end television dramas hit our shores, registration is now open industry-wide.

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  The first seminar is being run in association with PG business partners, Pinewood Studios Group and Creative England and is being held at Pinewood Studios on Thursday 30th May 2013 at 4.30pm.

  Expert first-hand knowledge will be given by some of the major players who developed and lobbied for the tax relief, including speakers from PG affiliates Saffery Champness, Wiggin LLP and Coutts, plus Creative Skillset.

  Please click here to see the invitation to the Pinewood event for more information.

  Booking via Eventbrite is essential, and reservations are on a first come first served basis. Please click here to register.

  Dates for additional seminars will be announced shortly, which will includeManchester; Bristol; Cardiff; and Glasgow events. If you would like to be notified when registration is open for any of these future events, please e-mail pg@productionguild.com or keep an eye on http://www.productionguild.com/events/Seminars for further updates.

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  10 May 2013

  Warner Bros. to take on Creative Skillset Trainees

  Creative Skillset and Warner Bros. have announced that they will be working ever more closely together as Warner Bros. opens two additional trainee positions on every one of its film productions in the UK. The trainees will be recruited through Creative Skillset's Trainee Placement Scheme, and will form part of Warner Bros. Creative Talent, a new programme of investment in UK skills and training.

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  Starting in September, Warner Bros. Creative Talent will support the next generation of UK Creative Industries' talent with scholarships attached to work placements and mentoring, apprenticeships and training courses, giving young people of all backgrounds invaluable industry experience and insight across Warner Bros.' UK film, TV, games and theatre operations.

  At the same time, Warner Bros. has become the largest single contributor to the Skills Investment Fund (SIF), a levy on productions filmed in the UK, with its latest film currently in production, Jupiter Ascending, pushing its contribution to the SIF to over £1m.

  Dinah Caine OBE, Chief Executive of Creative Skillset, said: "The Trainee Placement Scheme is a fantastic opportunity for talented people to gain experience on major productions. We're delighted to see this significant new investment from Warner Bros., alongside its ongoing commitment to the Creative Skillset Skills Investment Fund, and look forward to working with the studio to help bring new talent to the UK's film industry."

  Josh Berger CBE, President & Managing Director, Warner Bros. UK, Ireland & Spain, speaking at last week's launch of Warner Bros. Creative Talent said, "As we continue to make more films, TV shows, video games and stage plays here, as well as investing in state-of-the-art studios, we will be calling upon the very best talent the country has to offer. To that end, it is crucially important to us to invest in the next generation, so that we not only have a diverse pool of exceptional talent to work with, but that we also play our part in maintaining the UK's position as a global creative industries leader."

  Roy Button OBE, Executive Vice President & Managing Director, Warner Bros. Productions Ltd and Production Guild member added, "We're delighted that, with the announcement of Warner Bros. Creative Talent, we're able to build upon our industry leading contribution to Creative Skillset's Skills Investment Fund, by opening up more opportunities for people to work on our film productions here in the UK." 

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  09 May 2013

  Danny Cohen Reveals Final Drama Commissions as Controller of BBC One

  The BBC has today announced that Our Zoo, Poldark, Dickensian and From There To Here will mark Danny Cohen's last four drama commissions as the Controller of BBC One.

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  Danny Cohen, the new Director of BBC Television commented: "It has been a joy and privilege to commission programmes for BBC One. I hope audiences enjoy the range and creative ambitions of these new dramas for the channel."

  Ben Stephenson, Controller of BBC Drama Commissioning added: "An exciting clutch of authored drama for BBC One – Debbie Horsfield richly reimagines a literary saga, a beautiful new drama series from award-winning playwright Matt Charman, Peter Bowker returning to BBC One for his first drama since Occupation, and Tony Jordan's ambitious multi-part, multi-series 'world of Dickens' drama."

  All four dramas detailed below were commissioned by Danny Cohen and Ben Stephenson.

  
  Our Zoo

  6 x 60 minutes, written by Matt Charman and made by Big Talk Productions and Aenon.

  This is the incredible true story of the man who created Chester Zoo in the 1930s and the impact it had on his family.

  Executive Producers are Luke Alkin, Adam Kemp and Kenton Allen for Big Talk and Matthew Read for the BBC.

  
  Poldark

  6 x 60 minutes, adapted by Debbie Horsfield and made by Mammoth Screen.

  An adaptation of Winston Graham's acclaimed romantic saga set in late-18th-century Cornwall. Ross Poldark returns home from war, looking forward to a joyful reunion with his family and his beloved Elizabeth. Instead he discovers his father has died, his home is overrun by livestock and drunken servants, and Elizabeth, believing Ross dead, is engaged to his cousin. Ross must start from scratch, forging a completely new path for his life - one that takes him in exciting, unexpected and hazardous directions.

  Executive producers are Debbie Horsfield, Rebecca Keane, Karen Thrussell and Damien Timmer for Mammoth, and Polly Hill for the BBC.

  
  Dickensian

  Written by Tony Jordan and made by Red Planet Pictures.

  Tony Jordan's multi-part series told over half-hour installments will bring the world of Dickens to life in a drama populated by the vivid characters from his classic books, who will meet one other in the most surprising of ways.

  Number of episodes to be confirmed.

  Executive producer is Tony Jordan for Red Planet Pictures and Polly Hill for the BBC.

  
  From There to Here

  3 x 60 minutes, written by Peter Bowker and made by Kudos Film and Television.

  In the aftermath of the Arndale bombing, a Manchester family man is torn between the life he wants and the life he could have. This is a funny, characterful and moving drama about a man whose life is rocked to the core - a family saga which begins in Manchester in the summer of 1996, on the day when an IRA bomb exploded in the city centre. Against the feel-good backdrop of Euro 96, it maps the emotional shockwaves generated by that bomb in the lives of two parallel families from different sides of the tracks.

  Executive producer is Derek Wax for Kudos and Stephen Wright for the BBC.

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  09 May 2013

  CorporatePay Joins The Production Guild

  We're delighted to announce that CorporatePay has joined The Production Guild as a company affiliate member. CorporatePay helps clients maximise profitability by designing and delivering world-class prepaid card programmes and their MasterCard can be used by UK and international productions and crew.

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  The CorporatePay Expense Card with centralised account management and option to benefit from multiple currency denominations allows you to manage production expenses simply.

  The flexible expense management solution offers a straightforward method of payment while on location, and helps manage crew expenditure and administration through a centralised online account management portal. The MasterCard based product can be used online, at point of sale and at ATMs for cash withdrawals and gives financial controllers complete visibility of spend with a full audit trail.

  The solution works both nationally and internationally. Whilst on production, crew may be required to pay for items including travel, accommodation and entertainment, in addition to props, costumes and other items necessary for production. By using this solution, your crew have access to payment without an accountant being near.

  Cards can be issued to individual crew members and budgets centrally allocated and managed as required.

  
  Benefits

  Spend management

   • Quick and easy distribution of expenses through a centralised account management platform
   • Production costs can be spread over time, with weekly or per diem allowances paid onto the card

  Reporting and reconciliation
  
   • Improved reconciliation, tax reporting, record keeping and control for audit purposes through accurate expense records
   • Instant and faster access to crew transactions through the CorporatePay Online Portal – can view transactions as and when they are made

  Ease of use for cardholders

   • The cards can be distributed to all staff as there is no credit check required
   • Budget allocation can be tailored to each staff member and topped up as required
   • Ease of access to expenses without having to come back to base
   • Improved security of funds over cash
   • Improved flexibility in terms of additional funds
   • Employees have more time to focus on the job at hand
   

  Case Study by Trademark Films

  CorporatePay's ExpenseCard has helped Trademark Films by meeting crew requirements without the need for an onsite accountant; it has enabled Trademark Films to prepay expenses at multiple locations, reducing the need for cash handling.

  Trademark Films set the goal of managing expenses while on location whilst keeping production crew costs to a minimum and you can find out how they met the challenge by using the WEX/CorporatePay Expense Card within their case study here.

  
  For contact details and further information, please visit the CorporatePay company affiliate page here and their website at http://www.corporatepay.co.uk.

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  08 May 2013

  ONSIGHT Helps Present New Drama by Idris Elba for Sky Arts

  PG affiliate, ONSIGHT provided cameras and post production for the new Sprout Pictures drama, The Pavement Psychologist, the screenwriting and directorial debut from actor, Idris Elba. The drama, starring Anna Friel is part of the second series of the acclaimed Playhouse Presents for Sky Arts. ONSIGHT provided advice and facilities for the full production process.

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  ONSIGHT's camera department supplied an Alexa camera and lens package to capture the filmic look needed for this comedy and drama strand. Shot in London over a tight schedule, it was essential that ONSIGHT process the rushes and dailies with a quick turnaround for Elba and the Cinematographer, George Richmond. ONSIGHT's camera and post teams worked together to manage the data and schedule. The offline edit, conform, grade and online took place at the company's Soho facility.

  The look was achieved, using Mistika by ONSIGHT's Colourist Andy Lee. Lee explains, "The finish is clean and contemporary with enhanced colours to particular objects, such as the red shoes, which are pivotal to the main character's thinking. The contrast levels were very important to this piece and had to be consistent throughout."

  The Pavement Psychologist is a modern drama whose protagonist Jenny is working in accounting and is in search of satisfaction. She then meets Chris, a homeless man, who lost everything in a tragic house fire and things begin to change. The production also stars Nonso Anozie, Steven Mackintosh and Reggie Yates.

  Idris Elba commented, "This was a tremendous opportunity that allowed me to showcase creativity that I don't always have a chance to share with the public. I'm honoured to be a part of Playhouse Presents."

  Zoe Rocha, Chief Operating Officer at Sprout Pictures, added, "Working with one company throughout has proven to be beneficial in terms of practicality, efficiency and the budget. The results are wonderful. With ONSIGHT's knowledge and services, we know our production team is in safe hands every time."

  The latest series of Playhouse Presents also includes established stars like Vanessa Redgrave, Matt Smith, Johnny Vegas and Kylie Minogue. ONSIGHT delivered the 30-minute film and Playhouse Presents: The Pavement Psychologist will broadcast on 9 May at 9PM for Sky Arts 1 and Sky Arts 1 HD. 

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  03 May 2013

  UK Creative Sector Tax Reliefs Launched by Chancellor

  The new UK tax reliefs for high-end television, animation and games were officially launched this week by Chancellor, George Osborne. The announcement took place at an event hosted by the British Film Commission at BAFTA, which was attended by Culture Minister, Ed Vaizey alongside a host of industry practitioners and organisations including Production Guild CEO, Alison Small and Training and Development Manager, Fran Triefus.

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  As reported last week, BBC One drama, By Any Means became the first production to pass the UK cultural test for qualification within the new UK TV tax relief, which came into effect in April 2013.

  Speaking at its launch alongside new UK tax reliefs for video games and animation, Osborne described the creative industries as "one of the jewels in Britain’s crown."

  He continued his comments about the industries noting it is "one of the most successful, exportable industries we have in a fiercely competitive global race" and described it as "just the kind of industry I want to back, which is why we are introducing these new tax breaks to help and promote production in the UK." 

  The Chancellor pointed out that the sector generates £36 billion a year to the British economy and employs 1.5 million people. He called it "a massively important industry for the UK going forward."

  Osborne also highlighted the strength of the regions outside of London stating, "We need to see other parts of our country becoming more competitive and attracting private sector jobs. What’s fantastic about your industry is that so much of it happens throughout the country whether it’s animation in Bristol, video games in Dundee or, of course, Game Of Thrones in Northern Ireland."

  Ed Vaizey who spoke after the Chancellor noted that the UK feature film tax credit had been worth over £800 million within the last five years and that 1000 films have now taken advantage it.

  Vaizey commented, "We know that the television and animation sectors make a real difference to the U.K. economy and these new tax reliefs will be instrumental in expanding our potential. Together with the investments in training and development we are making, British companies will grow and build on their already impressive international reputation."

  Iain Smith, PG board member and Chair of the British Film Commission welcomed the tax reliefs against "unprecedented international competition." He commented "We must continue to fight rigorously to maintain our position as a leading centre of production."

  BFI CEO Amanda Nevill stated, "With the film industry outperforming the economy as a whole, the film tax relief has proven how valuable it is in driving industry growth both through inward investment and home grown production."

  She continued, "These new tax reliefs are a huge shot in the arm for the burgeoning creative sectors and vital in bringing new opportunities for the development of high value skills and employment and creative excellence of future generations."

  U.K .Trade & Investment CEO Nick Baird commented, "We’ve all seen the benefit of inward investment, specifically from the U.S., through big budget film and high-end television productions coming to the U.K. and their positive impact on employment, skills and infrastructure. It’s a sector with huge potential, not just restricted to London and the South East, but across the whole of the U.K."

  More information on the UK High-end television Tax Relief can be found here.

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  03 May 2013

  BFI Names 20 UK Film Production Companies to Receive Vision Award Funding

  The BFI this week announced the 20 UK film production companies selected from over 170 applicants to receive BFI Vision Awards 2013-15. Designed to help grow strong and sustainable UK film businesses, each company will receive a Vision Award of up to £200k over two years. The BFI stated that the aim of the funding is to support the financial and creative autonomy these companies need to develop an exciting slate of film projects, grow their business and bolster their company profile nationally and internationally. 

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  In a statement confirming the list of selected production companies to receive funding, the BFI said "the successful companies each demonstrated a clear strategic vision for their future growth as well as a commitment to nurturing a diverse range of new voices and fresh ideas from across the UK, with a focus on creative excellence running through all the proposals."

  The open and competitive application process saw over 170 applicants shortlisted down to 34 who then undertook rigorous interviews with a panel of senior executives from the BFI before the 20 successful companies were chosen. Six, almost a third of those selected, are based outside London, eight feature women in leadership roles, and for the first time – and in acknowledgement of new opportunities afforded by the recently introduced UK tax credit for animation – animation studios were eligible to apply, with four selected.

  Ben Roberts, Director of the BFI Film Fund, commented, "Each of the companies selected had a strong vision for the future growth of their business and we feel they're poised to build their profile nationally and internationally, many of them by capitalising on their filmmaker relationships and creative instincts, coupled with an entrepreneurial flair. We think it's an exciting and eclectic mix, and I'm really pleased we could support UK animation studios for the first time. This sizeable investment in development will help to build the foundations of future growth and success for UK film."

  Ed Vaizey, Minister for Culture, Communications and the Creative Industries, stated, "Today's announcement is wonderful news for the companies selected, and represents a tremendous investment in the next generation of UK filmmakers. Film already makes a significant contribution to our economy, and as a driver of growth it is important that the industry is sustainable – something these awards are aimed at helping to ensure."

  The BFI's interview panel for the 2013-15 BFI Vision Awards comprised Director of the BFI Film Fund, Ben Roberts; BFI Creative Director, Heather Stewart; BFI Film Fund Senior Executives, Chris Collins, Lizzie Francke and Natascha Wharton; and BFI Business Affairs Executive, Jodie Orme.

  The BFI's list of award winners is confirmed below:

  BFI Vision Awards 2013-15: £100,000 awards (in alphabetical order):

  42 M&P
  Rory Aitken, Ben Pugh, Josh Varney, Kate Buckley
  Film credits include: Shifty, Welcome to the Punch. Upcoming: Monsters: Dark Continent
  42 are taking a unique and entrepreneurial approach to forming a UK film business, bringing talent management and production under one roof.

  Cowboy Films
  Charles Steel, Alasdair Flind
  Credits include: The Last King of Scotland, Fire in Babylon, Marley. Upcoming: How I Live Now.
  Across its narrative features, feature documentaries, and TV drama, Cowboy have impressed with a track record of introducing and working with filmmakers and writers of outstanding quality.

  Independent
  Luc Roeg, Andrew Orr
  Credits include: We Need to Talk about Kevin, Moon
  By successfully straddling production, international sales, and UK distribution, Independent can expertly strategise and oversee a film's journey through production, international festival selection and eventual release into the marketplace. With a strong commitment to new and emerging UK talent, Independent provide a unique and important offer for the UK market.

  Lupus Films (animation)
  Ruth Fielding, Camilla Deakin
  Credits include: The Snowman and the Snowdog Channel 4. Upcoming: Raymond Brigg's Ethel & Ernest (feature).
  Lupus intends to apply their first-class artistry to recognisable and well-loved properties (such as Raymond Briggs), to spearhead a revival of 2D animation in the UK and establish themselves as a formidable, and uniquely, British animation film company.

  Nexus Productions (animation)
  Christopher O'Reilly, Charlotte Bavasso, Claire Jennings
  Oscar-nominated, and winner of three Cannes Lions Grand Prix and two Black D&AD Pencils, Nexus have a track record in developing animation talent and have partnered with award-winning producer Claire Jennings (Wallace and Gromit: Curse of the Were Rabbit and Coraline) as they move into features. The company has also established Nexus Interactive Arts, a division that creates innovative storytelling experiences across digital media, including app-based storytelling, gaming and interactive web films.

  Passion Pictures and Red Box Films (documentary)
  John Battsek and Andrew Ruhemann – Passion Pictures
  Simon Chinn – Red Box Films
  Combined credits include BAFTA and Oscar-winning and nominated: One Day in September (Passion), Man on Wire (Red Box), Project Nim, The Imposter, Searching for Sugar Man.
  Working in partnership Red Box Films and Passion Pictures have impressed with their instincts for documentary features which are both critically and commercially successful. The companies are poised for growth into narrative and animated features.

  Warp Films
  Mark Herbert, Robin Gutch
  Credits include: Four Lions, Submarine, This Is England. Upcoming: Yann Demange's '71 and Paul Wright's For Those in Peril soon to have has its world premiere at Cannes
  A previous Vision Award recipient, and having recently celebrated 10 years of distinctive British storytelling, Sheffield and London-based Warp has continued to demonstrate ambition and a capacity for growth. The panel was excited by Warp's intention to expand into higher budget films and original cinematic comedies.

  Wildgaze Films
  Finola Dwyer, Amanda Posey
  Credits include: Quartet, An Education. Upcoming: Pascal Chaumeil's A Long Way Down based on Nick Hornby's best-selling novel
  With little previous Lottery investment, Wildgaze have proven themselves able to raise significant budgets for their brand of quality, and commercially-successful, features. Dustin Hoffman's directorial debut Quartet has so far grossed over £8m in the UK, and close to $55m globally.

  BFI Vision Awards: £50,000 awards (in alphabetical order):

  Blue-Zoo Animation (animation)
  Oli Hyatt, Tom Box, Adam Shaw
  BAFTA-winning Blue-Zoo have produced quality animation for SKY, BBC, Nickelodeon, Freemantle, Cartoon Network and Disney. They communicated many of the issues facing the UK animation sector and the panel felt that this level of support, and an ongoing relationship with the BFI Film Fund, would help the company to deliver its sustainable, profitable and international model for producing Animated Films in the UK.

  Flickerpix (animation)
  Joel Simon, David Cumming, Tim Bryans
  Award-winning Northern Ireland-based animation studio has identified a gap in the market for low-to-medium budget stop motion animated feature films, and in their shorts work has successfully blended stop motion characters with 2D backgrounds to great effect, in an innovative and cost-effective way. The panel were delighted by their ambition to become the Roger Corman Productions of comedy stop-motion animation movie making, creating a thriving and creative powerhouse in their Hollywood studios.

  Fly Film
  Kate Ogborn, Lisa-Marie Russo
  Credits include: The Spirit of '45, Swandown, Self Made, The Deep Blue Sea.
  Fly have delivered an impressive range of projects spanning documentary, artist's film, and auteur work and have been a nurturing environment for more challenging material. They have the appetite, experience and people skills to effectively develop and support a cross section of creative talent.

  Forward Films
  Kate Myers and Tracy Brimm
  Credits include: Grabbers, Skeletons
  Forward impressed as a two-woman company with ambitions to redefine British film, re-shape genre and nurture new and emerging UK filmmakers and voices, always with a strong focus on their path to market.

  Inflammable Films
  Diarmid Scrimshaw
  Credits include: BAFTA-winning Tyrannosaur
  A Yorkshire-based feature film company with a strong track record and a proven ability to create and nurture talent relationships, Inflammable are building an exciting slate of commercial, high quality projects.

  JW Films
  James Wilson
  Credits include: Attack The Block, The Pervert's Guide To Ideology. Upcoming: Under The Skin
  JW Films excited the panel with a passion for film and a philosophy that artistic quality and innovation makes for good business; that groundbreaking filmmaking will further the UK's internationally recognised film culture; and that great cinema leads the audience and is not led by it.

  Origin Pictures
  David Thompson
  Credits include: The Awakening. Upcoming: Mandela and X+Y
  A previous Vision Award recipient, Origin demonstrated a commitment to discovering and supporting new and original talent. The panel were particularly excited by Origin's plans for a writers' room for emerging and diverse writing talent, to help generate ideas and offer opportunities to benefit from mentoring at Origin.

  Rainy Day
  Rebekah Gilbertson, Nicole Carmen-Davis
  Credits include: The Edge of Love. Upcoming: Panda Eyes, Miss Shirley Bassey
  An entrepreneurial female team with considerable success to date in securing private finance from a range of sources to support their projects. Rainy Day have strong ties to Wales with most of their films shot in or featuring strong Welsh elements, and also a strong development focus on films for children and teens, with several projects aimed at this market currently on their slate.

  Roast Beef Productions (documentary)
  Havana Marking, Mike Lerner, Martin Herring
  Credits include: Sundance award-winning Afghan Star, Hell & Back Again, Pussy Riot – A Punk Prayer. Upcoming: Smash & Grab: Story of the Pink Panthers
  Roast Beef's documentaries have popularised 'big' subjects with a compelling, funny, and thrilling approach. They have had four films at Sundance, won six Sundance Awards, two Grierson Awards, a Prix Italia and received an Oscar® nomination, attracting funding from numerous international co-producers.

  Rook Films
  Andy Starke, Ben Wheatley and Amy Jump
  Credits include: Kill List, Sightseers. Upcoming: A Field In England
  In its relatively short life, Bridport-based Rook has made a number of original, smart, inventive – and beautifully British – features which have attracted significant attention at international festivals, and established Ben Wheatley as one of the UK's foremost talents. Now Rook are expanding to develop and produce features with other significant new filmmakers, including Peter Strickland.

  Stray Bear Films
  Ivana Mackinnon
  Credits include: The Scouting Book For Boys, The Descent 2
  A young producer with vision and aptitude, Ivana Mackinnon has set her sights on a gap in the market for films that are 'commercial with a twist' and is looking especially for strong female elements: well-drawn female characters; female genre movies; and movies that allow a strong female directorial voice. Having spent time as Film4's Diversity Development Producer, Mackinnon also has experience in finding exciting and surprising voices and perspectives.

  Third Films
  Samm Haillay, Duane Hopkins
  Credits include: Better Things. Upcoming: Bypass (currently in production)
  Newcastle-based Third's objective is to reignite UK cultural cinema, developing bold director-led films that transcend simple genre types. The company cites Denmark and Australia as examples of territories where cultural filmmaking has re-emerged to critical and commercial significance. 

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  02 May 2013

  Bristol to Host Next Creative England Crew Night

  Following 10 successful crew nights attracting over 1,600 people in 2012, the next crew night from PG business partner, Creative England rolls back into Bristol in May for a Spring event.

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  Come along to the Colston Hall, Bristol between 6-8pm to find out more about how the Creative England production liaison service can help you find locations, crew & opportunities in the English regions. Find out more too about their national crew and facilities and locations databases, and meet the Creative England Production & Locations team who can help oil the wheels on your production.

  The Production Managers Association (PMA) are partnering with Creative England to run the event.

  The Creative England crew nights are open to producers, production companies, facility houses and crew across the film, TV and digital sectors.

  This crew night is being sponsored by resident sponsors Brookson.

  To book your place go to: http://creativeenglandcrewnightmay22bristol.eventbrite.com. 

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  29 Apr 2013

  BBC Names Charlotte Moore as Acting Controller, BBC One

  In an email to BBC staff earlier this morning, the BBC's New Director of Television, Danny Cohen, announced that Charlotte Moore, the BBC's current Commissioning Editor of Documentaries, is to be appointed Acting Controller of BBC One.

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  Danny Cohen will be taking up his new role as the BBC's Director of Television on Tuesday 7 May.

  Charlotte Moore has accepted to become the Acting Controller of BBC One while the process of making a permanent appointment takes place.

  Danny Cohen says: "Charlotte is a fantastic creative leader and I'm confident she will do a great job as interim Controller following her spell recently in charge of the BBC Daytime portfolio. The most important thing is that we carry on with business as usual and Charlotte will be empowered to make commissioning decisions and maintain BBC One's momentum."

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  29 Apr 2013

  Pinewood Reveals New US Studio Plans

  PG business partner Pinewood Studios Group today announces a joint venture to be named Pinewood Atlanta, with River's Rock llc, an independently managed trust of the Cathy family. The joint venture will work to initially develop 288 acres of land south of Atlanta, Georgia, USA, into world class studio facilities for the production of film, television, music and video games.

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  The land and studio construction costs will be funded by equity from River's Rock and a debt facility from Synovus Bank. The business will operate under the Pinewood trademark and Pinewood has received 40% of the shareholding in the joint venture. Pinewood will provide the joint venture with sales and marketing services.

  Pinewood Atlanta will allow producers access to attractive fiscal incentives from the State of Georgia, within a conveniently located, secure hub in the USA for productions to base themselves. Construction is expected to commence immediately.

  Ivan Dunleavy, Pinewood CEO, said: "Today's agreement is another step forward for the Pinewood brand internationally. This new studio will target US productions. Georgia has excellent fiscal incentives and a great crew base. With River's Rock we have a well resourced partner that is committed to building a first class studio facility."

  Jim Pace, Managing Partner, River's Rock llc said: "We are tremendously excited to be creating a world class studio in the state of Georgia and are looking forward to working with Pinewood in the many years to come. The Pinewood brand is so well recognized in the global film industry and together there is a great opportunity to build an excellent facility that will attract the very best producers."

  Pinewood also revealed that trading for the financial year ended 31 March 2013 was in line with management expectations.  The studio stated that "the outlook for the year across all our revenue streams continues to reflect strong demand."

  The studio group also confirmed that Pinewood's planning application for a proposed £200 million expansion project will be heard by South Bucks District Council on 15 May 2013.  Pinewood stated that it expects the expansion will increase capacity at Pinewood Studios by 100,000 sq m of additional facilities, which is projected to create an additional 3,100 jobs and produce an additional £149m in Gross Value Added.

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  25 Apr 2013

  Double Negative Reveals New TV Division

  After 15 years working exclusively on Film VFX, Double Negative has announce the creation of their new Dneg TV Division. Dneg TV will be headed up by Jonathan Privett, previously Head of Film & TV and VFX Supervisor at Rushes, Louise Hussey, VFX Producer and VFX Supervisor Hayden Jones. 

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  Between them, Privett, Hussey and Jones have over 50 years of professional experience in TV VFX.

  They have delivered high end VFX for major broadcasters in the UK and USA including the BBC, ITV, Kudos, Discovery, Red Planet, HBO and ABC.

  Double Negative MD, Alex Hope commented, "This is a brand new and exciting venture for us and we're delighted to welcome the team to Dneg. Television drama continues to break new ground and offer fantastic creative challenges and the government's recent instigation of 25% tax breaks to encourage additional US and UK inward investment into high end TV Drama, means that it is the perfect time to launch Dneg TV."

  He continued, "Our new Dneg TV team has a proven track record of creating brilliant TV VFX for some of the best production companies on the planet. This, combined with Dneg's expertise, infrastructure and talent pool means that we can build on this success and offer TV Production companies, both in the UK and the US, a service that is second to none."

  Jonathan Privett said, "Our focus will be solely on TV and we will be applying and leveraging the technologies and talent from Dneg in a way that makes it appropriate for TV VFX time frames and budgets. It's an exciting time for TV VFX and we're very much looking forward to setting up in our new home at Dneg."

  Double Negative confirmed that the first project Dneg TV will work on is Ridley Scott's The Vatican for Showtime.

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  25 Apr 2013

  UK Charity Film Education Closes This Week

  Film Education will be closing on Friday 26th April 2013. All 15 full-time and part-time Film Education staff will be made redundant. National Schools Film Week will no longer take place and all Film Education activities will cease.

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  Film Education is the privately funded charity that provides award-winning curriculum-based teaching resources, teacher training and cinema-based events across the UK.

  The closure of Film Education is as a result of the decision in November 2012 by its primary funder, Cinema First, to cease its financial support from the end of March 2013. At the same time, Cinema First made the commitment to support the bid led by the publicly financed organisations, FILMCLUB and First Light, in their efforts to secure the £28 million Lottery funded BFI 5-19 film education scheme 2013-2017.

  Film Education said that they would like to thank the film distributors, exhibitors, Cinema First (AIM), filmmakers, creative talent and industry executives, as well as teaching professionals and students, for their support over the past 26 years. The charity said that the support they received enabled a unique, innovative and successful approach to educating future audiences and filmmakers about and through film.

  Film Education commented that it was incredibly proud of its work over the years to support young people wanting to learn more about film and with teachers wanting to see film embedded across the National Curriculum. It is also proud that other countries have built their own models for film education based on Film Education's initiative and experience.

  The closure of Film Education brings to an end 26 years of:

  • Regular engagement with teachers across the UK
  • Direct industry support for the use of film in the classroom;
  • Providing film-related, curriculum linked, award-winning teaching resources;
  • Training and workshops for educators on the use of film across a wide range of curriculum subjects. Events include the annual Film Industry Conference.
  • Giving young people the opportunity to meet and talk to filmmakers and industry professionals;
  • In-cinema experience of events such as National Schools Film Week, CineSchool, Sun Screens, preview screenings and Autism Friendly Screening Days; and
  • Innovative initiatives such as CP3, Young Film Critic, Be ©reative and Film Card.

  In 2012 alone Film Education's activities included:

  • 547,699 children and young people aged 5-19 attending our free in cinema screening events and festivals such as National Schools Film Week and CineSchool – 4.4 million children since the inaugural event in 1997;
  • 27 film-related, curriculum-based resources, used by 1.6 million children and young people in the classroom;
  • 24 training and CPD events attended by 1,021 teaching professionals;
  • Innovative workshops attended by 524 students;
  • More than 13,000 teachers in over 9,000 schools subscribed to Film Education's fortnightly electronic newsletter;
  • New resources made available to over 20,000 teachers in 18,000 schools across the UK; and
  • 609,607 visits to www.filmeducation.org, a 58% increase on 2011.

  Film Education hopes that the legacy of its work will speak volumes in the years to come.

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  25 Apr 2013

  Saffery Champness Advises on First TV Drama to Qualify for UK Tax Relief

  As reported in Broadcast, BBC One drama, By Any Means has become the first production to pass the UK cultural test for qualification within the new UK TV tax relief. PG affiliate, Saffery Champness was a major player in developing and lobbying for the tax relief and were the advisors for the production's cultural test application.

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  Saffery Champness confirmed that they have now received a letter of comfort confirming that the production passed the BFI's cultural test.

  The BFI will continue to issue letters of comfort to all qualifying UK television productions until official certificates are released from August 2013 going forward.

  Speaking to Broadcast, Sinéad McHugh, Saffery Champness film, TV and media manager, said: "It's wonderful to receive the first letter of comfort from the BFI for the new high end TV tax relief. After so much discussion, it's great that the system is in place and works so well."

  Red Planet Pictures production executive Alex Jones commented: "After the nail biting wait for state aid approval we're all delighted the UK tax credits plugged the final financing gap on By Any Means and that principle photography could start as planned on this month. The UK high end tax credits are a welcome relief to the production sector as we struggle to close the finance on ambitious drama projects."

  By Any Means will be a 6x60 primetime drama for BBC One and is being made by Death in Paradise producer, Red Planet Pictures. 

  The series will follow a covert police department that, when the legal system fails, go to any lengths to bring the criminal elite to justice. 

  It is penned by a writing team comprised of Tony Jordan, Richard Zajdlic, James Payne, Jeff Povey and Richard Lazarus whose combined credits include Strike Back, New Tricks, Silent Witness and Ashes to Ashes amongst other projects.

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  23 Apr 2013

  BBC Name Danny Cohen as Director of BBC Television

  The BBC has announced that BBC One Controller, Danny Cohen has been appointed as Director, BBC Television. Cohen's appointment follows an open recruitment process and is the final addition to new Director-General Tony Hall's senior management team.

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  Cohen will sit on the BBC's Executive and Management Boards and will oversee the BBC's four main channels, BBC One, BBC Two, BBC Three, BBC Four alongside BBC iPlayer and online content for BBC Television. He also oversees the Drama, Entertainment, Knowledge and Comedy genres as well as BBC Films. In addition, he will be responsible for the BBC Television archive and BBC Productions, Europe's largest television production group.

  Cohen was appointed Controller, BBC One in October 2010 and under his stewardship it has remained the most watched channel in the UK. His commissions have included Call The Midwife, Last Tango In Halifax, The Voice, The Village, Undercover Care, the When I'm 65 Season, Ripper Street and The Syndicate.

  In 2012, BBC One had a record-breaking year with its largest ever growth in peak share and its first all-hours share growth on record. Forthcoming programmes include series from JK Rowling, David Walliams, Peter Kay and Matt Lucas, along with new dramas The White Queen, Atlantis and Strange And Norrell.

  BBC Director-General Tony Hall said: "Danny Cohen has been the driving force behind an extremely successful period in BBC One's history. Key to his success has been an ability to provide viewers with a mixture of high quality programmes they enjoy whilst also introducing them to new subjects they might not have considered before. I am looking forward to seeing his impressive mix of creativity and vision being put to great effect across the whole of the BBC Television portfolio."

  Danny Cohen said: "I'm honoured to be taking over as Director of BBC Television. Our ambition is to be the finest broadcaster and producer in the world and our values will be based on talent, creativity, storytelling and innovation. I've had a wonderful time at BBC One and am grateful for the work of all the talented people who have made the channel the most popular in the UK in recent years."

  Cohen begins his new role on May 7th. He will be paid a total package of £327,800. 

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  19 Apr 2013

  New 35mm Processing Lab Deal Agreed between Company3 and iDailies

  As reported in Screen this week, Company3 owned by PG affiliate Deluxe has agreed a new deal with London film lab iDailies for 35mm processing in the UK. This service is local to the UK and will be available for current 35mm projects in production and those in pre-production.

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  The deal follows the announcement from PG affiliate, Technicolor that it is due to close its photochemical activities at Pinewood on 31^st May this year. Technicolor was however clear that it will remain active in all other spheres of its activities and it will continue to service its media and entertainment customers.

  Speaking about the new deal, Patrick Malone, Director of Digital Film Services at Company3 London commented “The agreement allows Co3 to continue to provide a full 35mm/16mm film service. There is a huge appetite among local clients and those overseas to continue shooting on film.”

  He continued, “It’s one thing to base decisions on the global needs of a huge corporation and another in identifying the needs of clients which we see on a daily basis. Despite the understandable and inevitable fact that a huge lab can’t be sustained in this day and age, there is still a very real need to support those filmmakers choosing to shoot film.”

  It has been reported that Ealing-based iDailies will now add a new chemical bath and increase capacity from 40,000ft to 100,000ft. Alongside Company3, it will also see the addition of black and white developing, answer prints, soundtracks and film deliverables.

  Speaking about capacity, John Tadros, co-founder of iDailies stated, “On average the UK would see about 25-30,000 ft processed a night throughout the year so the entire daily output could be done on one processing machine.”

  “Because the nature of filmmaking goes in peaks and troughs, realistically we need at least two machines to cater for periods of demand up to 100,000ft a night.”

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  19 Apr 2013

  Nicky Douglas to Join UNI as UK Managing Director

  Universal Networks International (UNI) has named former Disney and Nickelodeon directory, Nicky Douglas as its new Managing Director of the company's UK networks.

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  Reporting to Duccio Donati, UNI Executive VP, Douglas will oversee several UK digital channels including Universal Channel, Syfy and Movies 24.

  Duccio Donati stated, "Nicky's tremendous range of media experience, brand marketing savvy and strategic focus will complement our ambitions for further evolving the channels' business of NBCUniversal International in the UK market."

  Commenting on her appointment, Douglas stated: "I am incredibly excited to join the UK business of Universal Networks International and work with the team on maximizing the exciting range of high-quality content across UNI's compelling channel brands."

  Douglas recently ran her own media consultancy. Prior to the, she was Executive VP and MD of Walt Disney Television International (Asia Pacific) and MD of Nickelodeon's joint-venture channels in the UK. Douglas was also VP of marketing, EMEA, for Turner Entertainment Networks Europe.

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  17 Apr 2013

  Pinewood Signs New Agreement with Chinese Media Group

  Pinewood Shepperton today announces that the Group has entered into a 50:50 Joint Venture Agreement with Seven Stars Media Limited ("Seven Stars"), part of one of China's leading private media groups which provides content creation and distribution, media services and events.

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  The joint venture, to be called "Song Lin", initially will assess a number of business proposals in the growing entertainment market in China. Under the terms of the joint venture, Pinewood will provide its expertise with limited capital investment. The proposals include:

  providing co-production opportunities for film and television producers; the creation of film and television diploma courses to be delivered by UK educational institutions in Beijing, Tianjin and four other cities developing production financing and related services for Chinese film and television productions; a series of film themed entertainment venues in Shanghai and regionally; andcreating film themed projects in Beijing, Shanghai and Wuhan.

  Seven Stars is one of the largest and fastest growing media conglomerates in China, with operating subsidiaries and joint ventures in Hong Kong, Europe, UK and the United States, and its founder and Chairman Bruno Wu has been a leading figure in the international entertainment industry for over a decade.

  Prime Minister David Cameron said:

  "It's great to see Pinewood Studios expanding its business with the announcement of its joint venture with Seven Stars Media. The creative industries are a rapidly growing area of China's economy and will increasingly provide huge opportunities for UK companies competing in the global race. Pinewood is leading the way, taking advantage of China's thriving entertainment and media sector and building on Britain and China's growing trade relationship."

  Ivan Dunleavy, Pinewood CEO, said:

  "The Chinese market for content is the fastest growing in the world and taking Pinewood's experience and skills to that market in partnership with such an established and successful local partner is a truly exciting prospect. The joint venture brings together two companies with significant experience and will provide a conduit for film and television productions to maximise their impact in China. The partnership with Seven Stars, under Bruno Wu's direction, represents a strategic step forward for Pinewood's international development. If successful, the joint venture could provide significant opportunities for UK film and television producers."

  Bruno Wu, Seven Stars Chairman and CEO said:

  "Together with Pinewood, we have identified a significant number of business opportunities for the short, medium and long term. The joint venture will aim to improve the standard of media production, create co-production opportunities for Chinese producers and export Chinese film and television content overseas. Our local knowledge and scale combined with Pinewood's unique operational skills and international reputation will enable our joint venture to participate in China's content explosion."

  The Chinese entertainment and media market is worth $137,458 million and is predicted to grow to $192,516 million by 2016. The Chinese filmed entertainment market is worth $4,478 million and is expected to almost double by 2016 to $7,374 million(1). In 2011 the Chinese Government listed the creative sector as a pillar industry. 

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  12 Apr 2013

  Royals and Charities to Attend Inauguration of Warner Bros. Studios Leavesden

  The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge and Prince Harry will attend the inauguration of PG affiliate, Warner Bros. Studios Leavesden. Their Royal Highnesses will undertake tours of Warner Bros. Studios Leavesden and Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter. 500 guests from The Duke and Duchess's and Prince Harry's charities will join them for the Warner Bros. Studio Tour London - The Making of Harry Potter.

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  Their Royal Highnesses will also host a meeting for their Charities Forum in the Great Hall, one of the original sets from the Harry Potter film series featured in Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter.

  During the first part of the Studio tour, The Duke and Duchess and Prince Harry will meet some of the creative teams from recent Warner Bros. Productions. They will be given an insight into the film making process and shown some of the props and costumes from those films. The Duke and Duchess and Prince Harry will then attend the official inauguration of Warner Bros. Studios Leavesden, during which The Duke of Cambridge will deliver a short speech.

  Following the inauguration, Their Royal Highnesses will undertake a tour of Warner Bros. Studio Tour London - The Making of Harry Potter, based on the same site, where they will view props, costumes and models from the Harry Potter film series. The tour will include: a visit to the Great Hall; a wand lesson in The Gryffindor Common Room; and a special effects demonstration on Diagon Alley.

  The visit will conclude with The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge and Prince Harry hosting a meeting for their Charities Forum in the Great Hall. 

  Warner Bros.' £100 million facility, the first of its kind to be built in the UK in 70 years, accounts for a third of the dedicated major feature film production stage space in the UK and is the only film studio in the country to be owned and operated by a major Hollywood studio.

  Formerly the production home of all eight Harry Potter films, Goldeneye, Star Wars Episode 1 - The Phantom Menace and Tim Burton's Sleepy Hollow, the state-of-the-art studios now encompass nine sound stages, a 100 acre back-lot and one of the largest underwater filming tanks in Europe.

  It is available to all kinds of productions, not just Warner Bros., from commercials to music videos, TV shows to feature films. The first production to shoot there since the redevelopment was All You Need Is Kill, directed by Doug Liman and starring Tom Cruise and Emily Blunt.

  Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter is the only attraction that takes guests behind the scenes of the Harry Potter films and showcases the incredible British talent, creativity and artistry that went into bringing the series to life. 
  

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  12 Apr 2013

  Over 45 PG Members Worked on BAFTA TV Award Nominated Productions

  Huge congratulations to over 45 Production Guild members who worked across 15 productions that have been nominated for BAFTA television awards this year! PG members provided their expertise over several departments including Production, Accounts, Location Management and Assistant Directors, within a wide range of roles from senior management to junior grades. With this year's launch of the UK TV tax relief it's fantastic to see so many of our membership showcasing their world class talents, skills and experience.

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  The PG members who worked on nominated productions are:

  Game of Thrones (Series 2)

  Sallie Beechinor - Production Co-ordinator (Croatia)
  Alison O'Leary - Financial Controller
  Donal Geraghty - Production Accountant (Croatia)
  Jacqueline McBride - Payroll Accountant
  Kerry Smith - UK Accountant
  Jennifer Griffin - NI Accountant

  Parade's End

  Selwyn Roberts - Producer
  Jon Williams - Head of Production
  Jennifer Wynne - Line Producer
  Adrian O'Brien - Head Of Program Finance
  Richard Hyland - Production Accountant
  Susan R Wall - Location Accountant (Belgium)
  Rachel James - Post Production Accountant
  Christopher Gallagher - Assistant Accountant
  Zhenya Ivanova - Accounts Assistant

  The Hollow Crown - Henry IV Part 2

  Rupert Ryle-Hodges - Producer
  Dan Hillsdon - Financial Controller
  William O'Toole - Payroll Accountant
  Ewan Taylor - Assistant Accountant
  Tamana Bleasdale - 2nd Assistant Director

  The Hollow Crown - Richard II

  Rupert Ryle-Hodges - Producer
  Dan Hillsdon - Financial Controller
  Davina Pem - Assistant Accountant
  Elizabeth Brizzell - Assistant Accountant

  Call the Midwife

  Caroline Russell - Line Producer
  Marco Ciglia - 1st Assistant Director
  Pippa Suren - Production Co-ordinator
  Catriona Scott - Production Secretary
  Fraser Grant - Production Accountant
  Debbie Peterson - Assistant Accountant

  The Hour (Series 2)

  Kelly Phillips - Production Accountant
  Christine Murray - Assistant Accountant

  The Fear

  Oliver Crawford - Assistant Production Co-ordinator
  Jamie Lengyel - Location Manager
  Jon Miller - Production Accountant
  Justin Miller - 1st Assistant Accountant

  Everyday

  Adam Hughes - Production Co-ordinator
  Valeria Bullo - 3rd Assistant Director / PA

  Scott & Bailey (Series 3)

  Janis McMorrine - Production Accountant

  Mrs Biggs

  Vincent O'Toole - Production Accountant
  David Ruddock - Assistant Accountant

  Twenty Twelve

  Kevin McSweeney - Production Accountant (Block 2)

  Cardinal Burns

  Andrew Hill - Production Accountant

  Mr Stink

  Jude Campbell - 1st Assistant Director

  Episodes

  Lynne Greenshields - Production Accountant
  Tina Pisano - Assistant Accountant

  The Thick of It

  Josie Kelly - Production Accountant

  The full list of nominations can be found on the BAFTA website here.

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  11 Apr 2013

  Michael Lynton Extends Contract as Chair and CEO of Sony Pictures Entertainment

  Michael Lynton, Chief Executive Officer of Sony Entertainment, Inc. and Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Sony Pictures Entertainment, has renewed his contract, it was announced today by Kazuo Hirai, President and Chief Executive Officer of Sony Corporation.

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  Lynton joined Sony Pictures Entertainment in January 2004 and Sony commented that, with Co-Chairman Amy Pascal, "they put the studio on a path of stability and success across its lines of business."

  Lynton was appointed to the additional role of CEO, Sony Entertainment, Inc. in 2012, overseeing Sony's global entertainment businesses, including Sony Music Entertainment, Sony/ATV Music Publishing and Sony Pictures.

  This past year, Sony Pictures had its best ever performance at the worldwide box office, ranking first in the North American theatrical market share among all Hollywood studios due to the strong performance of successful feature films, including Skyfall, The Amazing Spider-Man, Men in Black 3 and Hotel Transylvania.

  The company's growing Sony Pictures Television unit now encompasses global production and distribution of programming across all genres, one of the largest libraries of content and formats, as well as a global portfolio of television networks, channel investments, a premium digital video network and multi-platform ad sales.

  "Michael's steady leadership and strong vision for the digital future will help keep Sony's entertainment businesses stable and reliable contributors to Sony's growth," said Kazuo Hirai. "I look forward to working closely with Michael in ensuring that music and pictures remain integral parts of our global strategy. We're thrilled he will continue at the helm for years to come."

  During Lynton's tenure, Sony Pictures has expanded its global presence and digital footprint. Worldwide box office revenue for Sony Pictures' films surpassed the four billion dollar mark in 2012 for the first time. Sony Pictures Television now has 18 production companies in 15 countries around the world covering multiple regions and boasts international television networks with 124 channel feeds in 159 countries reaching over 800 million homes worldwide.

  Lynton commented, "I am grateful to work with some of the finest minds in the entertainment business, starting with my partner at Sony Pictures, Amy Pascal, as well as Doug Morris at Sony Music and Marty Bandier at Sony/ATV. They are the best in their fields, and together we will strive to bring the very best films, music and television shows to our growing, global audiences."

  Lynton continued, "We will continue to collaborate closely with Kaz Hirai to create innovative, world-class entertainment and technology experiences, as only Sony can."

  Born and raised in Europe, Lynton attended Harvard College and Harvard Business School. He has previously worked on Wall Street and for The Walt Disney Company, Hollywood Pictures (serving as President), Pearson plc's Penguin Group (Chairman and CEO), AOL Europe (CEO), AOL International (President) and Time Warner International (President).

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  11 Apr 2013

  BFI Names Films to Receive First Feature Award Support as Second Round Opens for Applications

  The BFI Film Fund this week announced Debbie Tucker Green's Second Coming and Esther May Campbell's Light Years as the feature debuts they intend to support through the first round (January – March) of a new editorial process giving first time directors working with budgets under £2million the chance to be considered every three months. The second round is now open for new applications.

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  Debbie Tucker Green is a BAFTA (Best Single Drama for Random, Channel 4) and Olivier (Most Promising Newcomer) award winning writer and director, best known as one of the UK's foremost playwrights and a talented screenwriter for television.

  Her first feature film Second Coming, produced by Hillbilly Films and developed and co-financed by Film4, is set in present day London and tells a poignant story about family, the impact of pregnancy and a woman struggling with her mental state.

  Esther May Campbell is another BAFTA award winner (Outstanding Short Film for September, 2009), and internationally acclaimed with ten other major awards. With a prolific career directing shorts, music videos and TV drama, including Skins and Wallander, Light Years is her first feature. Produced by Third Films, it follows a day in the life of an 8 year old girl in an intense journey to find her mother that is steeped in atmosphere, explores complex familial, socio-cultural and environmental issues, and has a pointed relevance to our time.

  A commitment to new and emerging talent is outlined in the BFI's future plan Film Forever. This new editorial process, in which the BFI Film Fund continues to welcome applications year round, but now considers them collectively, is designed to create a level playing field and provide equal opportunity for every first feature, allowing fresh and exciting voices from a diverse range of filmmakers to shine through.

  Ben Roberts, Director of the BFI Film Fund, comments: "Given the volume of applications we receive for projects with first time directors, we wanted to make a commitment to regular reviews of emerging filmmakers that is fair, open and inclusive. Debbie's and Esther's films are brilliant examples of the type of new work we hope to champion - bold, unique films from filmmakers who are prepared to take risks."

  As is now standard practice for the BFI Film Fund, applicants who receive a positive decision in principle will be issued with a Letter of Intent, enabling some of the projects to secure the final stage of their funding by demonstrating the Film Fund's commitment and endorsement.

  The closing date for round 2 awards is 31 May 2013, and subsequent deadline dates will be published at www.bfi.org.uk/filmfund.

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  11 Apr 2013

  New Commissions Revealed by BBC Drama Controller

  Speaking this week at MIPTV, the BBC's Controller of Drama Commissioning, Ben Stephenson, gave a keynote speech where he championed the role of BBC Drama in the global market place and his ambition to strengthen its international reputation. Two new BBC drama series were also announced at the event.

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  He said: "Quality and creative integrity are crucial to achieving international success. Co-production should be a means of achieving the scale of a writer's vision, not a creative compromise. The best dramas translate internationally because they are driven by an ambition that goes to the heart of the piece.

  "I want to make BBC Drama the hallmark of quality and the place where the best talent from all over the world can find a home to work and flourish. Working with BBC Drama provides creative talent from all over the world the very best environment in which to flourish. It is so exciting that the world is opening up to British programming and wanting to invest in it."

  He announced new dramas by Jimmy McGovern and Tony Jordan, both of which the BBC said, "reflect the growing ambition of British television."

  Stephenson continued, "Both of these new commissions are passion projects for Jimmy McGovern and Tony Jordan - and are projects only the BBC would make."

  New Commissions

  An original, epic serial from Jimmy McGovern and the award-winning team at RSJ Films is commissioned for BBC Two.

  Multi-award-winning Jimmy McGovern and the acclaimed team at RSJ Films go into pre-production with a continuing, eight-part drama serial, inspired by the events of the late 1780s when Britain deported its unwanted citizens to the very edge of the known world.

  Jimmy McGovern says: "In 1787 when Britain banished its petty thieves, whores, orphans and highwaymen – to Sydney Cove, a place so hot and barren and hostile that very few people had ever set foot there. It was an audacious social experiment, unparalled before or since. Yet these rejects from Britain, accompanied by soldiers, officers, a vicar and a doctor, survived against all the odds, in spite of famine, drought, escapes, hangings and floggings, the colony thrived. This is their story."

  This fictional account of human courage and endeavour, love, loss and terrible choices begins several months after the First Fleet has arrived. It is told through the eyes of three convicts: James Freeman, Tommy Barrett and Elizabeth Quinn. Their passionate friendship is a rollercoaster of survival set between the deadly, bush and the infinite blue of the mighty Pacific Ocean. Talks are currently underway with co-producers and distributors. A title and casting will be announced in the coming months.

  The Great War for BBC One

  The epic series, set during the First World War, is told through the eyes of two very ordinary young men who enlist in a war they expect will be over within months. As the conflict unfolds, so do the boys stories, as they grow up amid the horror of war, and find love.

  The 5x30 drama, produced by Red Planet Pictures through BBC Cymru Wales Drama, has been written by Tony Jordan (Hustle, Life On Mars, The Nativity) and will be executive produced by Tony and Bethan Jones at the BBC. The series is set to air on BBC One as part of the BBC's programming around the centenary of the First World War throughout Armistice Week next year, in the 100th anniversary year of the start of one of the greatest tragedies of the 20th century.

  Tony Jordan said: "The First World War is undoubtedly one of the most catastrophic events of modern history with a devastating impact on human life across the world. Often, the sheer magnitude of suffering during this time makes it hard for audiences to understand the very personal pain that was inflicted on countless families and young men.

  "The Great War follows two young men as they struggle to adapt to life on the front line and fight to survive the terrifying events of war. The story looks at all aspects of the war – from the families left behind to the strategic decisions by generals that led to unimaginable bloodshed and the men fighting in the trenches – no one is unaffected by this global war."

  This moving, powerful drama will be told in five chronological parts with each half hour one of the five years of the war and, although centred primarily around the Western Front, it will take in all the major events of the Great War including Gallipoli, the Battle of the Somme, Ypres and the entry of America into the conflict.

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  05 Apr 2013

  Strong Year for Elstree Studios as Sales and Contracts Increase

  PG affiliate, Elstree Studios has announced increased studio sales and a host of new contracts over the last year. The period has seen BBC Studio and Post Production move into stages 8 and 9. Both stages have been totally refurbished and are currently being equipped by the BBC for full HD production.

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  Elstree has stated that the BBC's move to the Studios will increase the amount of television work undertaken, including Strictly Come Dancing. ITV's Dancing on Ice has just finished shooting in the George Lucas stages, Big Brother is gearing up for a new season and Endemol are also starting a new major TV show at the studios in early summer.

  Recent feature films have included Under the Skin starring Scarlett Johansson, Hyde Park on Hudson starring Bill Murray, Brian Singer's Jack the Giant Slayer, World War Z starring Brad Pitt and The World's End starring Simon Pegg.

  James Biddle, Executive Producer on The World's End commented, "Elstree Studios was the perfect home for The World's End. We needed three large stages with good height and excellent lighting grids. We required spacious, fully serviced production offices, a huge variety of workshops and first class dressing rooms."

  He continued, "All of these needed to be easily accessible from Central London by public transport and within reach of the excellent locations in Hertfordshire. As always, the team at Elstree bent over backwards to help us at every stage of the process, and no request was ever too much to ask. We look forward to returning very soon!"

  The Studios recently announced that it is due to start the clearance of the 4 acre back lot area with a view to building new film and TV facilities on the area formerly known as The Mound.

  Elstree Studios is also a sponsor, with others, of the new Elstree University Technical College for film, TV and creative industries which will open in September this year. Work has already started on the EUTC buildings which are across the road from the studios.

  This month Elstree Studios, jointly with Creative England, will be hosting part of the US Familiarisation Trip (FAM) organised by the British Film Commission where US producers are invited to the UK to visit studios and facilities.

  Elstree Studios Managing Director Roger Morris will also be attending MIPTV to promote the studios and encourage drama producers to take advantage of the new UK tax credits for TV Drama.

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  04 Apr 2013

  Mayor Details New Investment for London's Film, TV and Animation Industries

  The Mayor of London, Boris Johnson, has announced new investment in London's film, TV and animation industries to boost jobs, support home grown talent and attract high-end productions to the capital.

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  This week, a new tax relief came into effect, operating in the UK for TV and animation production. To make the most of this opportunity, the Mayor is expanding the remit of Film London to bring in £200m worth of additional expenditure through TV and animation production and create 1000 industry jobs. He will invest £2m to broaden Film London's reach, with £750,000 ear-marked to promote the development of these sectors.

  Already enjoying tax relief for film, London is now the third busiest city in the world for film-making after LA and New York. Film London, already working to facilitate major motion pictures shot in the capital, generated £770m in investment over the last four years alone and hopes are running high for the agency's expansion into high-end TV, such as dramas, mini-series, franchise shows, international co-productions and animations.

  Film London has been working with the Mayor since 2003 to deliver production opportunities and has the unique skills and expertise to help TV companies – many small businesses – who lack experience working with tax relief or securing inward investment.

  What's more, with additional funding, the Mayor's agency can now set its sights on new investment opportunities from markets in US, India, China and South America.

  The Mayor today visited PG affiliate, Ealing Studios - the longest continuing film studio in the UK - and home to the Downton Abbey set, as well as the pioneering 'performance capture' special effects studio Imaginarium.

  Boris Johnson, Mayor of London said: "We are at the dawn of a new golden age of TV production in London. We have an unprecedented opportunity to grow this exciting sector to deliver jobs, produce more world class British drama and, above all, make London the city of choice for TV and animation production. It's time for London to fulfil its potential as the world leader and employer it's destined to be in this field. Let's make sure that all future Downtons are filmed on our turf".

  Tony Hall, Director-General, BBC said: "These are certainly exciting times for television production. The BBC is already a huge supporter of talent in the UK, with Sherlock and Silk shortly due to begin shooting in London. The capital is already one of the most TV-friendly cities in the world and we look forward to continuing to play our part in this vital part of the British broadcasting ecology."

  Julian Fellowes, Creator of Downton Abbey for ITV said: "It is encouraging to feel that the tremendous, worldwide success of British high-end television is at last receiving some recognition and help."

  Andy Serkis and Jonathan Cavendish, founders of The Imaginarium said: "For us, basing the Imaginarium in London is crucial. We have set up Europe's leading Performance Capture studio here because of access to the best creative people and the most interesting clients, partners and co-venturers in the field of next generation story-telling. The introduction of tax relief beyond film to animation, games and television is very important to our business, and helps us in setting up our Academy to train young people into the digital future."

  David Parfitt, Chairman of Film London said: "I would like to thank the Mayor for his continued support of Film London and the capital's production industries. We are proud of the return on investment Film London has delivered for the city over the past 10 years, and with these new opportunities in the television, animation and games industries, we can cement London's reputation as the greatest city in the world for all visual arts."

  James Spring, CEO Managing Director of Film and Television, Ealing Studios said: "Ealing Studios are delighted that the government is continuing its support for the creative industries. The extension of the tax credit system for high-end TV has already led to increased activity from foreign productions as well as UK originated television. This, together with the continued and increased support from Film London and the Mayor's office, help make London and Ealing Studios a world class destination for the best producers of film and television."

  Gareth Neame, Executive Producer, Downton Abbey said: "We are fortunate to have one of the most vibrant TV production industries in the world here in the UK and much of that work has traditionally been located in the London area, which also boasts many of our most iconic locations. Britain is the second biggest exporter of TV content in the world and a tax incentive to boost local production and encourage incoming content is long overdue. As British producers we welcome this commitment by the government and particularly the Mayor's increased investment in Film London to expand its remit so we can boost this vital sector of the creative industries."

  Adrian Wootton, Chief Executive of Film London and the British Film Commission said: "Having worked with the Mayor's office for the last 10 years to transform the capital into a film friendly city, we now welcome the same task for high-end TV and animation. With the new fiscal incentives, coupled with investment from the Mayor, the capital has the potential to become a world leader for the production industries, retaining and creating valuable jobs and encouraging new investment to boost the economy." 

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  02 Apr 2013

  Director-General Tony Hall Begins New Period for BBC

  Today, in his first day in the job, Tony Hall, the new Director-General of the BBC, set out the 'next chapter' for the BBC, telling staff that he believed "with imagination and hard work, the BBC's best days lie ahead of us." 

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  In an email to all staff, he outlined a number of questions he believes the BBC needs to address over the coming months. He told staff that he wants to listen to their views, which - along with those of audiences and partners - will be key in shaping the BBC's ambitions. He will review these themes with the BBC Trust and then set out his thinking in the autumn.

  The e-mail to BBC staff, with the subject, "The BBC's best days lie ahead of us" is below is full:

  Dear All,

  It is a great honour to start today as Director-General of the BBC. This is a very special organisation. It enriches millions of lives every day, here and the world over. It provokes strong opinions because people care passionately about it. The BBC has a unique history, a special place in the country's heart and a vital part to play in its future. So I have a very real sense of the responsibility that comes with the role.

  Recent times have been difficult for the BBC, but obviously far more so for those directly affected by these events. We are learning the lessons and thanks to the hard work of staff across the organisation under Tim's excellent leadership, the BBC has moved forward. We are now winning back trust, something which will always be the most precious commodity for our organisation. We must never take it for granted.

  I am confident about the future for the BBC for two key reasons: the calibre and quality of its people and the values we all share.

  It is my job to enable you to do the best work of your lives, producing outstanding programmes and services, and to remove the distractions that get in the way of that ambition. The BBC sets incredibly high standards. At our best we provide a service like no other. Our challenge is to perform at our best all of the time.

  In the coming weeks, I will set out how we can all shape the next chapter for the BBC as we move towards our centenary in 2022. Later this year I will share my thinking with the Trust before outlining our new ambitions for the BBC. We will need to make the most compelling case possible by listening to our audiences and partners, and building on our many strengths.

  We have a unique opportunity to work together to shape the future of public service broadcasting. The kind of questions we need to ask ourselves include:

  How can we further improve the quality and distinctiveness of our programmes?How can we get closer to our audiences so they can get the content they want, when and how they want it?How can we build an ever more creative and dynamic organisation where the best creative talents want to work?What are the next big trends in technology and consumption that we need to grasp as we did with BBC Online and iPlayer?How can we act as a catalyst for creative and digital economies, a global champion for the UK and a source of future jobs?How can we make more of the BBC brand and content in the global marketplace?How can we improve what it is like to work at the BBC?How can we meet all of these ambitions within the means of the Licence Fee?

  There are obviously other big questions and we must address them all whilst adapting to the ways in which Britain, its society, nations and regions are changing.

  Critically this means me listening to you. Over the coming months I want to hear your thoughts about this next stage of our journey. I will be getting out around the BBC as much as possible.

  I am proud to be leading the BBC as we start this next chapter together. We have always been pioneers. As we move towards our centenary it is a time for the BBC to be self-confident and optimistic about the future. You produce brilliant programmes and content, day in, day out. There can be no complacency but I firmly believe with imagination and hard work the BBC's best days lie ahead of us.

  Best wishes,

  Tony Hall. Director-General.

  Tony Hall's appointment as Director-General follows the departure of George Entwistle earlier this year, who stepped down after Newsnight incorrectly implicated Lord McAlpine in a North Wales child abuse scandal. 

  Hall will take over the position from Acting Director-General, Tim Davie who will now move into the role of Chief Executive of BBC Worldwide.

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  25 Mar 2013

  BBC Commissions Exclusive iPlayer Drama Strand

  The BBC announced it has commissioned a new BBC Three drama strand, which will be exclusively made for broadcast on BBC iPlayer. The broadcaster described the drama strand as an "exciting venture between BBC iPlayer, BBC Three and BBC Drama Production". Six original short films have been commissioned over two years, written and directed by up-and-coming writing and directing talent from across the UK.

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  The new drama strand builds on BBC iPlayer's strategy to showcase more exclusive content within the service in 2013 and on the BBC Writersroom's ongoing commitment to bring the best new writers to UK audiences.

  During 2012, the BBC introduced online-only programmes to audiences via BBC iPlayer. These included BBC Three 'Feed My Funny' new talent comedy pilots, a Doctor Who mini-series called Pond Life, and curated archive programmes for BBC Four. These proved popular on BBC iPlayer, with Pond Life receiving over 5 million requests, the BBC Three comedy pilots over 1 million requests and the BBC Four archive programmes receiving over 2 million cumulative requests.

  Victoria Jaye, BBC Head of IPTV & TV Online Content, says: "This ambitious new strand builds on BBC iPlayer as a creative platform to bring original British drama to audiences online, and explores storytelling outside of a scheduled TV slot or duration. Audiences will be able to discover, share and enjoy these dramas whenever and wherever they choose."

  Hilary Salmon, Executive Producer for BBC Drama, says: "This is a precious opportunity for BBC Drama Production to produce original content for the BBC iPlayer and the BBC Three audience and to build relationships with writing and directing talent that is on the way up."

  Zai Bennett, Controller of BBC Three says: "As a youth channel, BBC Three is at the forefront of new ways to commission and view programmes and to find up and coming talent both on and off the screen. This new drama strand is exactly the kind of venture BBC Three is all about."

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  20 Mar 2013

  Chancellor Reveals £25m Support for Creative Industries

  The creative industries have been given a further £25m to help contribute to economic growth, it was announced today by Chancellor George Osborne in 2012's Autumn Statement.

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  Following the £6m allocation announced by the Chancellor, the Skills Investment Fund (SIF) will be given an extra £5m each year over the next two years, with government match-funding for voluntary industry contributions.

  The extra funding for SIF, administered by Creative Skillset, will support skills development in the UK digital content sectors.

  This follows increased production in the creative industries since 2012's announcement of new tax reliefs for high-end TV production, animation and video games companies.

  A further £15m has been committed to the design and launch of a new competition, led by the Technology Strategy Board. This will invite consortia bids to support digital content production through partnerships with industry, including specialist SMEs, educational research facilities and training providers.

  HM Treasury will also be launching a public consultation on options to provide further support for the visual effects (VFX) industry through the tax system.

  Creative Industries Minister, Ed Vaizey said: "The UK has a world class content production sector. Today's package of measures, announced in the Budget, recognises the significant economic contribution made by our highly skilled creative content industries. It demonstrates government's ongoing commitment to supporting innovation and investing in talent to help keep the UK ahead of the game when it comes creative excellence."

  Iain Smith, Producer, PG Board Member, Chair of Creative Skillset's Film Skills Council and the Film Industry Training Board, said: "This enables us to build on the strong foundations of the UK film skills strategy to date and enhances the recent National Lottery investment from the BFI. It ensures we make an impact fast on gaps and shortages and can invest in the skills needed for a successful future." 

  Amanda Nevill, BFI CEO said 'Today's Budget is a vote of confidence from the Government in film and the creative industries as engines for economic growth in the UK. The BFI is laying the foundations for future growth by placing skills and innovation at the heart of our five year strategic plan and this additional support from Government for our key strategic partner Creative Skillset marks an important step in future proofing the success of the industry. 
  

  John McVay, Chief Executive of Pact and Chair of the TV Coalition said: "The TV Coalition is advising Creative Skillset on investment plans and a new levy for High End TV production. We are delighted that the strategic vision from the industry is matched by Government support." 
  

  Adrian Wootton, Chief Executive of the British Film Commission and Film London said: "On behalf of the British Film Commission (BFC) we are delighted that, in addition to the incoming Creative Sector Tax Reliefs, the Chancellor has today announced further support for the UK's creative sectors, and in particular the VFX industry. There is no disputing the UK is a centre of VFX excellence"

  He continued, "These new measures will ensure that we can continue to compete globally on a level playing field; and continue to attract the biggest and most technically challenging film and television projects to the UK. Public support for the creative industries has a successful legacy in the UK with the current Film Tax Relief delivering a return of £12 for every £1 invested by Government. This is further evidence of the Government's commitment to and understanding of the long term potential and value of the UK's Creative and Digital Sectors in terms of inward investment and jobs."

  Stewart Till CBE, Chair of Creative Skillset and CEO of Sonar Entertainment said: "Our industries have identified the UK's skills and talent as one of the principal drivers of growth and of our global reputation. We applaud the Government for incentivising co-investment and providing this much needed injection to support growth in our priority economic sectors.  Crucially, this news is totally aligned with employers’ ambitions to develop an innovative industrial partnership for the Creative Industries to take end-to-end responsibility for skills in our sectors."

  Alex Hope, Managing Director & Co-Founder of Double Negative, Co-author of the ‘Next Gen’ Report and Creative Skillset Board Member said: "The Government's recognition of the content production centre and visual effects' position within that is hugely welcome. The measures announced today offer significant opportunity to drive this sector forward and invest in our greatest asset - the tremendous talent existent in the UK.”

  Stephen Garrett, Chairman of Kudos, Executive Chairman of Shine Pictures and Creative Skillset Board Member said: "The UK Creative Industries are renowned for having a world-beating skills base. A new challenge is making sure that we can boost growth and properly resource increased levels of production so that we compete even more successfully on the global stage.  It is fantastic to see today's additional financial commitment from the Chancellor to support the skills and talent development we need to help our industries step up to this challenge." 

  Sarah Mackey, CEO of UK Screen said:“We look forward to digesting the detail of these proposals but the early indications are verypositive for digital content creators. The UK is home to some of the best Visual Effects housesin the world - our creative fingerprints are all over the global blockbusters of the 21st century.The sector invests heavily in R&D and in skills development and Government is recognising thevalue of supporting its continued success.”

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  15 Mar 2013

  Development Programme for Feature Film Producers Opens for Applications

  Create Innovate is a new six-month development programme for feature film producers being delivered by Northern Film & Media in partnership with leading cross media market Power to the Pixel and with support from Creative Skillset and PG business partner, Creative England.

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  The Create Innovate programme is designed to support four producers/teams as they explore the commercial and creative potential of their feature film story worlds online.

  Alongside a bespoke mentoring programme they will also run a series of workshops covering a range of topics from cross-media story development to pitching a digital idea. Sessions and mentoring will be led by established industry specialists who have made money from innovative and creative digital apps, games and interactive web projects.

  They will help producers to develop an exciting digital project to run alongside their feature film that could not only help build audiences and expand the story world but also be an additional revenue stream. If accepted onto the programme producers will also receive a £500 bursary to help develop pitching materials and support towards travel costs.

  For information on the programme and how to apply please visit the Create Innovate website or sign up to the launch event here.

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  15 Mar 2013

  Production Guild Supports Next Creative England Crew Night at Pinewood

  Following 10 successful evenings attracting over 1,600 people in 2012, The Production Guild is delighted to be supporting the next Creative England crew night. The event will take place at Pinewood Studios on Wednesday 17th April.

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  Come along to the Ballroom at Pinewood Studios on Wednesday 17th April from 6-8pm to meet the teams from both The Production Guild and Creative England, as well as networking with all of the other attendees. We expect it will be a busy night!

  The Creative England crew nights are open to producers, production companies, facility houses and crew across the film, TV and digital sectors.

  This crew night is being sponsored by the resident sponsors Brookson and Towergate Professional Indemnity.

  To more information and to book your place, please visit: http://crewnightpinewood17april.eventbrite.com

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  14 Mar 2013

  Alison Small Contributes to movieScope's Women in Film Issue

  The latest issue of movieScope magazine sees their first Women in Film issue, which Production Guild CEO, Alison Small contributed to. Published on International Women's Day, the entire 64-page March/April issue is devoted to celebrating the achievements of women across all sectors and territories of the international film and television industries.

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  All of the contributors to and interviewees in the issue are women and include writers, directors, actors, producers, cinematographers, editors and digital experts. Highlights include:

  Olivia Colman, star of cinema (Tyrannosaur, Hyde Park on Hudson) and television (Peep Show, Green Wing, Broadchurch) sitting down with us for an in-depth career interview:

  "Every year, there are women emerging who are very funny, so I don't know why some idiots still maintain that we can't be."

  Madeline Di Nonno, of the Geena Davis Institute on Gender in Media, examining the relationship between the depiction of women on screen and gender disparity in the industry.

  "There are no women [characters] in business, in law, in finance at the upper echelon. There are no entrepreneurs, no investors. We're showing our children that women don't have careers."

  Gale Anne Hurd, legendary Hollywood producer (The Terminator, The Abyss, The Walking Dead), discussing her incredible career in genre filmmaking:

  "I did have a production designer [on Aliens] who said, 'I won't take orders from a woman. I don't give orders, but he was still going to be answerable to me. So I stood up, shook his hand and said, 'Thank you for coming in and I'm sorry you won't be working on the film'."

  Plus

  *Profiles of the female filmmakers bringing change to the Middle East
  *How the role of women in Indian cinema goes way beyond Bollywood
  *Leading international female film critics discuss the importance of the female gaze

  Nikki Baughan, movieScope's editor, said: "It's an absolute fact that women are widely underrepresented throughout our industry. Instead of accusing festivals and awards of sexism, we must acknowledge that such events merely hold a mirror up to the huge gender gap that exists in our field, and work together to change this disparity. In deciding to devote an entire issue to the achievements of some truly inspirational women, we hope that a new generation of young women will see that a successful career in film is entirely within their grasp. We all stand to benefit from an industry that's packed full of diverse voices and opinions."

  movieScope's Women in Film issue is supported by the British Film Institute, Women in Film and TV and Birds Eye View.

  Amanda Nevill, CEO of the BFI said: "When I heard movieScope was dedicating a whole issue to women, I was excited by this fantastic opportunity to champion the many prodigiously talented females working through every area of our industry. Only 18 per cent of all directors, executive producers, producers, writers, cinematographers and editors working in 2012 were women. This disparity is puzzling when we have so many brilliant women succeeding both creatively and commercially, many of whom are featured across these pages. I do believe, however, that this is changing for the better, albeit at a maddeningly slow pace, and I'm certain that education will be the key to positive changes for the future."

  Kate Kinninmont, CEO of Women in Film and TV said: "We were absolutely delighted to be involved with movieScope's March/April issue dedicated to the women in our industry. The magazine's content illustrates the huge progress women have made, while not ignoring the fact that there is still a way to go. The women who are featured are all outstandingly talented and we hope that seeing them in this special edition will inspire a new generation of amazingly successful women in film."

  Rachel Millward, Birds Eye View founder/director, said: "Wouldn't it be great if there wasn't a need for a special focus on women filmmakers? But with fewer than 10 per cent of feature films directed by women globally, it's vital that we highlight the fantastic and diverse female talent ready to fill that gap and celebrate those who are breaking through. Birds Eye View is proud to support this timely edition of movieScope."

  Production Guild members are entitled to a complimentary subscription to movieScope magazine. Members can see full details in the members area.

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  14 Mar 2013

  Time Warner to Separate from Time Inc.

  Time Warner Inc. announced that its Board of Directors has authorized management to proceed with plans for the complete legal and structural separation of Time Inc. from Time Warner. Following the proposed transaction, Time Inc. would be an independent, publicly traded company. Time Warner whose subsidiaries include Warner Bros. and HBO aims to complete the proposed transaction by the end of the calendar year.

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  Time Warner Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Jeff Bewkes said: "After a thorough review of options, we believe that a separation will better position both Time Warner and Time Inc. A complete spin-off of Time Inc. provides strategic clarity for Time Warner Inc., enabling us to focus entirely on our television networks and film and TV production businesses, and improves our growth profile."

  He continued, "Time Inc. will also benefit from the flexibility and focus of being a stand-alone public company and will now be able to attract a more natural stockholder base. As we saw with the prior spin-offs of Time Warner Cable and AOL, we expect the separation will create additional value for our stockholders."

  Time Inc. CEO Laura Lang has advised Time Warner that she will stay on through this process and will help in identifying and selecting a successor. "Laura indicated to me that we should find a different kind of CEO for this new public company, and I respect her decision," Bewkes said. "She has been a great partner who has given Time Inc. forward momentum to make this transition possible, and I look forward to working with her to select the right leader to head the company as an independent entity."

  After the proposed separation is completed, Time Inc. will continue its mission as the leading multi-platform publishing and branded content company, reaching nearly half of U.S. adults each month and millions of consumers around the world.

  The proposed transaction will be structured as tax-free to Time Warner stockholders. The transaction is contingent on the satisfaction of a number of conditions, including completion of the review process by the Securities and Exchange Commission of required filings under applicable securities regulations and the final approval of transaction terms by Time Warner's Board of Directors. 

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  14 Mar 2013

  US Studios and Production Companies Reach New Digital Distribution Agreement

  The Digital Cinema Distribution Coalition (DCDC) announced that it has reached agreements with Lionsgate, Universal Pictures, The Walt Disney Company, Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. and Paramount Pictures to provide each with theatrical digital delivery services across North America.

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  DCDC, formed by AMC Theatres, Regal Entertainment Group, Cinemark Theatres, Universal Pictures and Warner Bros., has created a network for next generation satellite and terrestrial digital distribution capable of supporting feature, promotional, pre-show and live content distribution into theatres using the latest in digital distribution technologies.

  The network is designed to provide a highly reliable and cost effective distribution model for distributors and exhibitors alike. As digital distribution replaces the use of traditional, physical media for content distribution, users of the network will have access to a host of delivery options and resources.

  Speaking on behalf of DCDC, Randolph Blotky stated, "DCDC's service platform is the state of the art for digital delivery of various kinds of content to theatres in North America. Its business model will assure long-term consistent low cost pricing to content providers and exhibitors across the industry. We are very excited to welcome Warner Bros. Entertainment, Lionsgate, The Walt Disney Company, Universal Pictures and Paramount Pictures to our service."

  Darcy Antonellis, President, Technical Operations, and Chief Technology Officer, Warner Bros. Entertainment added, "The vision of creating a cross-industry distribution service to benefit distributors, exhibitors, service providers and consumers is becoming a reality. We're extremely pleased to be working with our colleagues to bring to fruition a powerful distribution network that is advantageous for us all."

  Nikki Rocco, President, Universal Pictures Distribution, added, "With the majority of the domestic theatrical market now digital, the ability to efficiently distribute films via satellite to a large subset of our exhibitor partners will further ensure moviegoers have access to the latest and highest quality theatrical entertainment. Universal is excited to work with DCDC in the satellite delivery of our films, as it rolls out its satellite platform over the coming months."

  "DCDC's new satellite service provides a seamless and secure system that will enable us to streamline and expedite access to our latest content," said Dave Hollis, Executive Vice President, Theatrical Exhibition Sales and Distribution, The Walt Disney Studios. "This is a crucial advancement in theatrical distribution, and we're thrilled to be on board."

  "The wide-spread adoption of DCDC's platform is a game-changer," said Dan Fellman, President, Domestic Distribution, Warner Bros. Pictures. "The service ensures that audiences have the most high-quality entertainment experience while exhibitors and content providers achieve a strategic, secure and cost-effective new business model. We are very pleased to join DCDC and our partner studios in this initiative."

  "We are pleased that Lionsgate can again be at the forefront of digital cinema and be part of the state of the art digital delivery system that will benefit the entire industry," said Richie Fay, Lionsgate's President of Domestic Theatrical Distribution.

  "All of us at Paramount believe the advancement of digital distribution technologies will help to further our goal to bring the finest entertainment to audiences in a seamless and secure manner, and the DCDC will be a great partner for us to achieve that goal," said Megan Colligan, Paramount Pictures' President of Domestic Marketing and Distribution.

  "DCDC is creating a technological superhighway," said Tim Warner, CEO and President, Cinemark Theatres. "It's one port access to thousands of screens, for both movies and alternative content, from all content providers."

  DCDC is expected to complete the initial network roll-out before year-end. Deluxe/EchoStar LLC will be providing operations support for the DCDC network. 

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  06 Mar 2013

  Creative Skillset Appoints New Chairs for Scotland and Wales

  Creative Skillset has appointed Bobby Hain and Rhodri Talfan Davies as the respective new chairs for its Scottish and Welsh national boards.

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  Stewart Till CBE, Chair of Creative Skillset and CEO of Sonar Entertainment, said: "I'm delighted to welcome Bobby and Rhodri to Creative Skillset's Scotland and Wales boards. They both bring a wealth of experience that will be a great asset to steer our work in the nations through the exciting and challenging developments that lie ahead for the Creative Industries."

  Bobby Hain is Director of Channels for Central Scotland's ITV franchise STV, responsible for its consumer platforms. Mr Hain brings over 30 years' experience in broadcasting across television, radio and online and replaces Ken MacQuarrie, Director of BBC Scotland, as chair on the Scotland board.

  Mr Hain commented: "I am honoured to take on this role and continue Ken's great work leading Creative Skillset's National Board in Scotland. There are unprecedented opportunities for Scotland's Creative Industries over the next few years that will create demand for new talent and improved skills. I am committed to supporting Creative Skillset's strategic role in ensuring we work together to shape and inform skills, education and training to support growth."

  Rhodri Talfan Davies replaces John Geraint, Creative Director of Green Bay, as chair on Creative Skillset's Wales National Board. Rhodri has overall editorial and managerial responsibility for BBC Cymru Wales, which has an annual turnover in excess of £150m and employs 1,200 staff across Wales. He is responsible for leading the creative teams which produce more than 15,500 hours of local radio and television content each year, a wide range of network television output and a portfolio of online services. He is also a member of the BBC's Management Board chaired by the BBC Director-General.

  Rhodri commented: "I am honoured to be asked to chair such a dynamic organisation as Creative Skillset Cymru, and I'd like to thank John for his immense contribution over recent years. Skills and training are so important to the development of the Creative Industries in Wales, and I know Creative Skillset Cymru has the knowledge and insight to help drive the sector forward. My aim is to progress the good work that has been achieved so far, particularly at a time of such extraordinary and exciting change".

  Creative Skillset's National Boards of Directors are made up of leading industry figures who guide and advise Creative Skillset's work in the nations within the context of its UK wide remit. For a list of Creative Skillset's Nations board members visit www.creativeskillset.org/uk

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  06 Mar 2013

  Elstree UTC Appoint Principal & Seek Industry Mentors

  Elstree University Technical College have appointed Moira Green as its first ever Principal ahead of it's opening term in September 2013.

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  Elstree UTC will be at the very forefront of the union of technology and creativity, exploring the joy and rigor of learning. A place at Elstree will give young people direct access to the creative industries and the best opportunities for employment in these areas. Working with the University of Hertfordshire means that all of the courses will have a direct relevance to further study at any university.
  
  Moira is just about to appoint a senior team for which there are several vacancies, shortly followed by the rest of Elstree staff. If you are interested in a position at The Elstree UTC contact Moira at principal@elstreeutc.co.uk and send your CV and a short note about how you would contribute to the development of a unique and outstanding establishment.
  
  Focusing on the creative and technical skills needed to work within industry, the curriculum will reflect the range of academic, specialist and professional skills needed for young people to progress at 19 to either University or employment. Indeed, students will learn from a range of professionals; teachers, mentors, directors, lighting & sound engineers and university lecturers. Applications are flooding in from year 10 and year 12 students eager to take their place.
  
  Elstree Studios have been on board since the conception of this project and are working to help develop the curriculum seeing Elstree Studios as part of the extended UTC classroom.
  
  Roger Morris, Managing Director of Elstree Studios commented:

  "The new Elstree UTC is of great importance to the whole UK film television and creative industry economy. The future skill shortage needs to be addressed and we feel that the new Elstree UTC will be the first, we hope, of many initiatives to address this problem for our industry.
  
  Not only that, the Elstree UTC is a vocational academy which will mean young people can be interfaced with the work place with apprenticeships and internships giving them great advantage when they emerge from the UTC and go into the employment workplace.

  We have 40 trades on site involved in facilitating the production of major TV series (such as Dancing on Ice, Big Brother, Who Wants to be a Millionaire?), major feature films and very importantly, in my view, British films. The new drama and high end TV tax credits will also have a significant impact on the market.
  
  We are very excited and pleased to be involved in this fantastic project."
  
  The Elstree UTC is sponsored by David Meller, who is already a sponsor of three Academies, in partnership with local and national employers

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  06 Mar 2013

  Creative England Opens Submissions for New South West Creative Business Fund

  Are you a creative business based in the South West? Do you have an innovative idea or product which could use £10,000 to get off the ground? PG business partner, Creative England is inviting businesses from across the South West to pitch their ideas in a new competition, which offers 10 winners the chance to pick up a £10,000 investment and a package of business support.

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  Starter for 10 calls for businesses to pitch their products to a prestigious panel of industry experts and investors, who will select the 10 best to receive financial and practical support to take their idea to market.

  The judging panel includes some of the leading names in creative business in the South West, who will assess 10 minute pitches from all shortlisted businesses at a series of "pitch battles" across the region.

  Jim Farmery, Creative England's Director of Business Development, said: "Creative England's fundamental aim is to unlock potential for small businesses in the creative industries. With the launch of Starter for 10, we hope to specifically encourage start-ups across the South West, drawing on the strength of the sector as well as their ability to develop innovative products and solutions which otherwise would have struggled to get off the ground."

  The final deadline to apply is Friday 1st March.

  Starter for 10 will then kick-off with three regional heats, in three cities across the region: Bristol, Bournemouth and Exeter.

  15 shortlisted companies will come together for a 'Grand Finale' pitch battle, where the 10 winning companies will be chosen.

  To apply for Starter for 10, and to read the application guidance notes, click here.

  To qualify, businesses must be under two years old and operate within the sectors of digital, web and interactive; mobile and app; games; social media; or marketing.

  For more information on applying please telephone 0117 952 9980 or email Creative England at starterfor10@creativeengland.co.uk. This project is supported by the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) and managed by Creative England.

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  06 Mar 2013

  Pinewood Studios Management Diploma Launched by Duke of York

  HRH The Duke of York, KG visited Pinewood Studios to meet young apprentices working at the Studios and to launch the Pinewood Studios Management Diploma. The new diploma has been established by Pinewood to help train its current and potential Studio Managers in the UK and across its international network.

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  The Diploma will be delivered by Amersham and Wycombe College, with which Pinewood has a long established relationship and which currently administers many of the Pinewood Group's current apprenticeships. The diploma has received partial funding from Creative Skillset - the body which supports skills and training for the creative industries.

  The Diploma will equip candidates with everything they need to effectively run a world-class studio facility for the screen based industries. It will teach students about managing facilities, contractors, budgets and assets amongst others. The course has been developed by Pinewood in conjunction with Amersham and Wycombe College and will be rolled out to the wider industry in the future.

  A steering group, chaired by Andrew Noakes, EON Productions, Associate Producer Skyfall (James Bond) and including Sarah Buckenham (Head of Production at Princess Productions) has been established to ensure that the course is directly meeting the needs of both film and television productions and to give first hand industry perspective. The course will be lead by Kas Lee.

  His Royal Highness visited Pinewood Studios as part of his continued effort to promote and recognise businesses that support apprenticeship programmes and deliver excellence in continued in-work education.

  During The Duke of York's visit to Pinewood he met with Luke Moorcock & Maimunah Yahkup, digital apprentices working in Pinewood's Digital Content Services department; Sam Healy, Drapes Apprentice; Jamie Garret, Carpentry Apprentice; and Jonathan Ash, Wood Mill Machinist.

  His Royal Highness also met with the first seven students to enrol on the course:

   • Kevin Bowen – Assistant Studio Manager
   • Dean Horne – Assistant Studio Manager
   • Emma Hardy – Operations Supervisor
   • Gemma Cross – Operations Supervisor
   • Patrick Wilbraham – Technical Operations Manager
   • Sasha Budzynski – Investment Finance Manager
   • Vicky Joy – Deputy Purchasing Manager

  Andrew M. Smith, Director of Strategy and Communications for the Pinewood Studios Group said: "We are so pleased that The Duke of York was able to launch the new Pinewood Studios Management Diploma. This is a really important initiative for the Company to ensure that we are training our staff to successfully and efficiently operate a world-class facility for our clients – no matter what part of the creative industries they are from. It is especially important, as our new studios around the world come online, to make sure that productions experience the same high level of quality they have come to expect from Pinewood in the UK.

  "I am also thrilled that Andrew Noakes and Sarah Buckenham have agreed to sit on our steering committee to lend their experience and to make sure that we are responding directly to the specific needs and requirements of major productions."

  Gill Clipson, Principal & Chief Executive of Amersham and Wycombe College said: "Amersham and Wycombe College has worked with Pinewood Studios for many years, training its apprentices. When the opportunity came up to strengthen our relationship by helping them to develop this new Management Diploma, we were thrilled; it's fantastic for the College to be involved in this project and brilliant to see a major UK company investing in the training of its staff in this way.

  "Our teachers also deliver this course and we are very proud that we are contributing to the success of Pinewood's highly skilled and world-renowned workforce."

  Andrew Noakes said, "I am really pleased to be able to chair the steering group for this new diploma and work with Pinewood on what I believe will be a really important course. For a production the size and scale of a Bond film we need as much control as possible and to put our trust in the day-to-day operations of the studios. We get that at Pinewood which is why it's been the home to Bond for 50 years. The Studios are efficiently run and this is down to years of experience dealing with some of the very best productions. It is vital that this knowledge and experience is passed on to the next generation and I hope to be able to add my perspective and knowledge to this process."

  Dinah Caine OBE, Chief Executive of Creative Skillset, said:

  "With the Government recently announcing new tax credits for high-end TV, animation and computer games, building on the success of the existing tax credit for film production, there is going to be significantly increased demand for facilities in the UK and it is critical that we have a strong skills base to support this growth. I am delighted that Creative Skillset is able to support the development of a new Pinewood Diploma in Studio Management which will provide individuals with a unique opportunity to develop their skills at an internationally renowned studio, nurturing the next generation of industry leaders."

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  01 Mar 2013

  The ExCel Centre Open For Filming

  Production Guild Business Partner, The Collective is extremely proud to welcome one of London's most iconic buildings to their ever-growing exclusive portfolio, the ExCeL Centre.

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  With nearly ONE MILLION sq ft of pillarless studio spaces across two vast chambers, ExCeL is the ultimate in alternative set build space.

  The site also boasts unique interiors that are perfect for airport, train station, shopping centre doubles, as well as production offices, a separate auditorium, and other useful breakaway chambers.

  The location of ExCeL means it is easily accessible by road, rail, tube, air, and even cable car. As a riverside site, there are spectacular views across the Thames to Canary Wharf, the o2, and other industrial Docklands surroundings. There are full facilities and plenty of unit parking onsite (over 3,000 spaces).

  If you would like to speak to their dedicated account manager for this site, please get in touch with Janie Richardson 0207 284 8901 / janie@location-collective.co.uk.

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  01 Mar 2013

  PG Members Films Honoured At Oscars

  The 85^th Academy Awards this week awarded Oscars to five films that featured the work of over 50 Production Guild members.

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  Skyfall, Les Miserables, Anna Karenina, Life of Pi & Zero Dark Thirty were all winners throughout various categories with Guild members represented across both production and accounting grades.

  Life of Pi won four, Les Miserables won three and Skyfall won two Oscars with Anna Karenina & Zero Dark Thirty winning one each.

  Guild Members credits:

  Life of Pi

  David Jones - 1st Assistant Accountant
  Brigitte Ward-Holmes - Construction Administrator

  Les Miserables

  Bernard Bellew - Co-Producer
  Francesca Budd - Associate Producer
  Eve Swannell - Production Co-ordinator
  Aneta Chalas - Production Secretary
  Michele Tandy - Financial Controller
  Chris Norman - 1st Assistant Accountant
  Ann Ormesher Johnson - Assistant Accountant
  Clair Hanson - Assistant Accountant
  Oliver Mitchell - Accounts Assistant
  Philip Lobban - Location Scout
  Vinnie Jassal - Location Scout
  Brigitte Ward-Holmes - Construction Buyer
  James Richardson - Production and Post Production Accountant

  Skyfall

  Callum McDougall - Executive Producer / UPM
  Andrew Noakes - Co-Producer / Financial Controller
  Jeremy Johns - Unit Production Manager
  Anthony Waye - Production Manager
  Angus More Gordon - Production Manager(China)
  Janine Modder - Production Supervisor
  Hannah Godwin - Production Co-ordinator
  Denise Hanrahan - Production Co-ordinator(Fethiye Shoot only)
  Stephanie Bamberg - Production Co-ordinator(2nd Unit)
  Arabella Gilbert - Assistant Production Co-ordinator
  Charlie Hayes - Unit Location Assistant(Turkey)
  Mark Beaumont - Production Accountant(Turkey)
  John Udall - Cost Accountant
  Fraser Grant - Location Accountant
  Alastair McNeil - Assistant Accountant(Costing Assistant)
  Nazmeen Dhansey - Assistant Accountant
  James Grant - Supervising Location Manager
  Martin Joy - Supervising Location Manager(Turkey - Adana and Istanbul )
  Philip Lobban - Location Scout
  Eduardo Rodrigalvarez - Location's Assistant
  Russell Lodge - Location Manager
  Christian Holden - Key 1st Assistant Accountant
  Terry Bamber - Assistant Director(Splinter Unit)

  Anna Karenina

  Alexandra Ferguson - Co-Producer
  Tim Wellspring - Unit Production Manager
  Jon Duncan - Financial Controller
  Claire Mitchell - Payroll Accountant
  Paul Murphy - 1st Assistant Accountant

  Zero Dark Thirty

  Philippa Naughten - Production Manager(Jordan & UK)
  Susan R Wall - Assistant Location Accountant(UK Only)
  Jane Soans - Location Manager / Scout

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  28 Feb 2013

  BBC Announces New Payment System for Behind Camera Freelancers

  The BBC is launching a new online payment system for behind camera freelancers, making it easier for them to accept jobs and faster to receive payments. The Production Guild understands that the BBC currently anticipates the changes going live towards the end of April although they are still awaiting final confirmation.

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  The new online system will cut down on paperwork and make it possible for freelancers to review their work history and see what payments they are due.

  The online one-stop-shop for contracting and invoicing will take away the need for matching a purchase order to an invoice, creating a more efficient and cost effective system for employing freelancers.

  When a freelancer is hired for the first time they will be given a personal reference number, which once set up, can be used for future contracts. All initial paperwork will only have to be filled in once and online, cutting down on the amount of duplication in the current system.

  At the moment, for every job a freelancer is offered and accepts, a new set of identical paperwork needs to be completed. A purchase order is then raised and matched to an invoice before payment is made.

  Standardising the process of accepting work and how payments are made will make the experience of working across BBC departments and productions easier and more consistent.

  Guidance materials on the new system are being developed and will be available closer to launch.

  Pensions

  As part of government legislation which affects all organisations, the BBC must automatically enrol certain members of its workforce (including some freelancers) into a workplace pension arrangement and make a contribution towards it.

  The BBC expects this to affect approximately 600 freelancers who are engaged for a period of three months or more, freelancers on shorter engagements may also be able to opt in. Freelancers who wish to remain in the arrangement don't need to do anything and those who wish to opt out can do so after they have been automatically enrolled.

  The BBC will be using the National Employment Savings Trust (NEST) as its universal single automatic enrolment arrangement for all workers. NEST has been designed for automatic enrolment which is run on a not-for-profit basis and is open to any organisation.

  Information on the new online payment and pension systems can be found on the BBC website here.

  To find out more about pension automatic enrolment and NEST visit www.nestpensions.org.uk

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  28 Feb 2013

  Applications open for LLGFF industry training event Tell Me Your Story

  Tell Me Your Story is a one day workshop for LGBT filmmakers, supported by Creative Skillset and designed to help develop film projects for the market place. The scheme is aimed at those who are looking to increase their knowledge of the film industry, gain feedback on script ideas and improve pitching and story-telling skills?

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  Taking place at BFI Southbank on Friday 22nd March during the 27th Lesbian & Gay Film Festival, the course will provide trainees with a motivational insight and confidence boost towards building a career in the mainstream film industry.

  The application deadline is Wednesday 6th March 2013.

  For more information and to apply please visit the Tell Me Your Story page on the BFI website. 

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  28 Feb 2013

  Triangle Film Development Scheme for Producers, Writers and Directors Launched

  TRIANGLE is a 10 month programme intended to support and, where necessary, help form writer-producer-director teams, who will be mentored through the first stage of development for a feature film project. There will be a selection process throughout the programme, and the surviving teams will pitch the best projects to industry in February 2014. 

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  Building on the success of the pan-northern pilot in 2011 and its inaugural national rollout in 2012, Triangle is a nationwide initiative that will support emerging writers, producers and directors led by Screen Yorkshire with support from the Skillset Film Skills Fund.

  The goal is to find and help teams develop that can not only make a feature film together but may go on to establish as enduring a working relationship as that of the likes of Frank Cottrell Boyce/Andrew Eaton/Michael Winterbottom or Simon Pegg/Edgar Wright/Nira Park.

  Triangle specifically encourages those seeking new creative collaborations, whether experienced or not, though track record will be taken into account in assessment. In addition, an essential part of the programme is a staged selection process, and only those teams and projects that demonstrate the capability and understanding of what is required to get a feature film made will progress at each stage.

  In the first instance, the scheme is looking for up to 40 writers and writer/directors to attend a virtual 121 story development session with industry mentors on 9 April 2013. From this they will select 12 writers and projects to form the core of the teams in Triangle 2013. The deadline for writers is 15 March 2013.

  The deadline for producers and directors is 26 April 2013. The 12 selected writers (or writer/directors) and up to 36 producers and directors will be invited to the launch event in Sheffield on 10-12 June. Accommodation will be provided for those that need it the nights of 9-11 June. Doc/Fest begins on 12 June, and participants may wish to stay on at their own initiative.

  The programme is open to all filmmakers based in the UK, over 18 and not in full time education. The bulk of the programme activity will take place in the North of England, and while support is available towards accommodation and travel costs, the amount is of necessity limited.

  DOWNLOADS

  Application Form

  Guidance notes

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  20 Feb 2013

  Malaysian 30% Cash Rebate Approved for Foreign Film and TV Productions

  The Malaysian government have enacted the 30% cash rebate for foreign film and TV productions that spend a minimum of RM5 million ($1.6million) in the country; (RM2 million for local productions). RM1.5 million minimum spend for the post rebate. Full details of the rebate can be found on the Malaysian Film Commission website here. Alongside the rebate, Pinewood Iskandar Malaysia Studios is due to open in May this year.

  Show more

  The incentives will cover:

  FOREIGN PRODUCTION

  Eligibility

   • Foreign Film Production companies using Malaysia for location filming and/ or post production and,
   • Co-production with a Malaysian film producer (majority foreign owned).

  Qualifying Malaysian Production Expenditure - Minimum

   • MYR 5 million for film production (inclusive of post production)
   • MYR 1.5 million for post production only (for production inside Malaysia)
   • For television series, a minimum spend of MYR 385,000 per hour

  Guidelines:

  Filming in Malaysia Incentive - Foreign production guidelines

  To help take advantage of the Malaysian incentives the new $130 million facility: Pinewood Iskandar Malaysia Studios from PG business partner, Pinewood Studios Group will open in May 2013.

  Based in Johor in the southern tip of the country, and close to Singapore's International airport and economic hub, the studios will offer 5 sound stages plus production offices, hair, make-up and wardrobe facilities and construction workshops. An additional 2 HD-equipped TV studios and post facilities are scheduled to open as phase 2 of the development in September.

  "We are in discussions on several projects," the facility's CEO Michael Lake told Deadline today. " Many producers were waiting for the release of these guidelines before committing to film in Malaysia."

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  20 Feb 2013

  27th BFI London Lesbian & Gay Film Festival Programme Announced

  The 27th BFI London Lesbian & Gay Film Festival (LLGFF) is back at BFI Southbank, London with a festival of 11 days and a new look programme that's packed full of films, special guests, events, workshops, and music (14 – 24 March 2013). The full programme is now available here.

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  Opening Night is a new documentary, I Am Divine, about the life and legend of the extraordinary actor, drag queen, performer and singer, born Harris Glen Milstead in Baltimore but known to the wider world as Divine.

  New for this year's festival, the programme is divided into three easily navigable sections: Hearts; Bodies; and Minds – and you'll find shorts, feature-length drama or documentary, events or archive classics across each section.

  There are over 100 titles in the festival, offering a dizzying variety of films reflecting the LGBT community around the world. Highlights include James Franco's Interior. Leather Bar., hot from the Sundance Film Festival; Oscar-nominated documentary How to Survive a Plague; and there's a powerful account of LGBT life in Jamaica in Taboo Yardies. There are sexual antics among Australian lesbians in Submerge, youthful lesbian desire in Mosquita y Mari, or indy girl rockers in She Said Boom: The Story of Fifth Column.

  As London braces itself for the V&A's new Bowie exhibition, We Love David Bowie is an evening devoted to the chameleon of rock, with an illustrated lecture and a rare screening of Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders from Mars followed by an after party.

  There are events and screenings about Pier Paolo Pasolini (subject to a major retrospective at BFI Southbank March/April) and Chantal Akerman, live accompaniment to Nazimova's Salome (1923), trans animators and musicians Rae and Spoon present Gender Failure, and much more.

  The LLGFF's Opening Night screening of I Am Divine will be the European premiere following the world premiere a few days earlier at SXSW. Divine became notorious for his appearances in John Waters' early films and this is a fascinating account of a larger than life, queer icon of the cinema, with contributions from a large cast of friends, colleagues, actors and, most notably, Divine's mother. Director Jeffrey Schwarz also made the inspiring documentary about AIDS activist and film historian Vito which was in last year's festival.

  The festival's Closing Night film is a heart-warming Canadian drama called Margarita about the dilemmas facing an attractive young Mexican nanny who has a complicated love life and a host family who adore her but can't afford to keep her. It underlines the human issues around immigration and offers an insight into the emotional life of a bright young lesbian with lots of heart.

  The festival welcomes back as Principal Sponsor, Accenture (rightfully celebrating their recent award as Stonewall's Employer of the Year in the annual survey of the UK's top 100 employers). The Accenture Gala screening will be Out in the Dark, a powerful love story from Israel set against the backdrop of political conflict.

  Some key themes across this year's festival are the documenting of the history of the AIDS crisis and its activism in films such as the Oscar-nominated How to Survive a Plague and United in Anger: A History of ACT-UP; and the importance of preserving historical memory and older people's place in our community is highlighted in a rare documentary where older French LGBT people have a voice in Les Invisibles directed by Sebastien Lifshitz, or in Jeremy Jeffs & Mark Ravenhill's celebration of activist-actor-legend in Bette Bourne: It Goes with the Shoes.

  The position of trans people and the many varieties of trans experience are strongly represented with a range of powerful documentaries and dramas such as I Am a Woman Now, starring April Ashley and the first generation of trans women to undergo the journey to Casablanca for sex reassignment surgery.

  Ticket information for the festival can now also be found by clicking here.
  
  

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  19 Feb 2013

  Construction Begins on New 45,000 sq ft Stage at Pinewood Studios

  PG business partner, Pinewood Studios has started construction on a new facility at its Buckinghamshire site. The 45,000 sq ft space will comprise a new state-of-the art 30,000 sq ft stage together with 15,000 sq ft of workshops and offices designed to accommodate television and film productions.

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  Demolition has now begun and the new £7.5 million facility will be completed by early autumn.

  This announcement follows on the back of a new planning application recently submitted by Pinewood to South Bucks District Council, called the Pinewood Studios Development Framework, to significantly increase capacity at the Studios.

  Local contractor LIFE Build Solutions Ltd has been selected to carry out the works, having previously worked at Pinewood Studios on construction of the main entrance gate, the Technicolor Building and the 30,000 sq ft Richard Attenborough Stage – Pinewood's newest stage which, in its first year of operation, has housed the films Les Misérables and Jack Ryan and TV show The Love Machine.

  Andrew M. Smith, Director of Strategy and Communications for Pinewood said: "The need for capacity in the UK and at Pinewood is just as pressing as ever. The Pinewood Studios Development Framework proposes expansion onto our adjacent land after we have done everything we can to maximise the potential of the existing Studios. This means replacing older buildings that have become inefficient with stages, workshops and offices that meet the needs of modern productions."

  He continued, "I am also pleased once again to be employing local contractor LIFE Build Solutions Ltd. A major benefit of our PSDF planning application will be the positive impact on local jobs – in construction, the creative industries and the wider local economy. This project is a fantastic example of us working with local partners."

  Ken Adams, Managing Director of Life Build Solutions Ltd said: "Repeat business is key to LIFE Builds success. We are delighted that Pinewood selected LIFE Build again and we look forward to continuing our partnership for years to come. Pinewood Studios is a fantastic client that believes in supporting good, well run local businesses, we at LIFE Build are proud to be associated with Pinewood's success." 

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  18 Feb 2013

  BBC One Reveals New War And Peace Adaptation from Andrew Davies

  BBC One Controller Danny Cohen reaffirms his commitment to ambitious event drama on the channel with the announcement of a new 6x60-minute serial adaptation of War And Peace by the award-winning scriptwriter Andrew Davies, due for broadcast in 2015.

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  Danny Cohen says: "War And Peace is truly epic in scale and builds on BBC One's commitment to bringing audiences drama of the highest quality and impact. Told over six episodes, Andrew Davies will bring his exceptional powers of adaptation to this literary masterpiece."

  Announced today, a new six-part adaptation of the epic War And Peace by Leo Tolstoy for BBC One in 2015, will be made by BBC Cymru Wales Drama. Widely regarded as one of the greatest novels of all time, Andrew Davies scripts will draw all the elements into powerful focus for a modern audience.

  Andrew Davies says: "Not just a great novel it's a wonderful read and it'll make a wonderful serial. A thrilling, funny and heartbreaking story of love, war and family life. The characters are so natural and human and easy to identify with and Natasha Rostova just beats Lizzy Bennet as the most lovable heroine in literature."

  Faith Penhale, Executive Producer and Head of Drama, BBC Wales, says: "Andrew Davies is the master of the classic adaptation and it's thrilling to be able to bring War And Peace, with its rich cast of characters and epic drama, to BBC One. Today's audience will be drawn into the sweeping story of life and love during a time of conflict, with a dazzling production that brings to life the great vision and scale of the novel."

  War And Peace is a 6x60-minute serial, commissioned by Ben Stephenson, Controller, BBC Drama Commissioning and Danny Cohen, Controller, BBC One.

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  15 Feb 2013

  Creative England Crew Night Comes to Brighton in March

  Following 10 successful crew nights attracting over 1,600 people in 2012, the next crew night from PG business partner, Creative England rolls into Brighton on Monday 4th March.

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  Come along to the The Basement, Brighton between 6-8pm to find out more about how their production liaison service can help you find locations, crew & opportunities in the English regions. Find out more too about their national crew and facilities and locations databases, and meet members of the Creative England Production & Locations team who can help oil the wheels on your production.

  The Creative England crew nights are open to producers, production companies, facility houses and crew across the film, TV and digital sectors.

  This crew night is being sponsored by their resident sponsors Brookson

  To book your place go to: http://creativeenglandcrewnightbrigtonmarch42013.eventbrite.com/

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  13 Feb 2013

  PG Member Marc Samuelson Added to Pact Council

  Marc Samuelson, Production Guild Member and former Director of the Association of Independent Producers and the Edinburgh International Television Festival, has been co-opted to the Pact Council as the organisation's film representative.

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  Marc's credits as an independent film producer include TT3D: Closer to the Edge, Me & Orson Welles, Tom & Viv, Wilde, Arlington Road and Stormbreaker; he also executive-produced The Disappearance of Alice Creed, The Libertine, Chico and Rita, TV series The Shadow Line and the forthcoming Honour.

  As former board member of the UK Film Council and Governor of the National Film and Television School, Marc recently relaunched his company Samuelson Productions and now has a slate of film and television projects in various stages of packaging and development including the recently announced 'Belly Dancing for Beginners' to be directed by Debbie Isitt ('Nativity 2') starring Sheridan Smith.

  Marc is currently Deputy Chairman of the British Screen Advisory Council and the Chair of Pact's film policy group.

  Marc Samuelson said: "I'm honoured to have been co-opted to join Pact Council. There's important work to do to build on the great progress made by my predecessor as Chair of the film policy group, Matthew Justice. We have in the BFI a much more positive and open partner in the public funding arena than existed for the previous decade. I hope in various ways to contribute to the further development of film production businesses – as businesses."

  John McVay, Chief Executive at Pact, said: "We are very pleased to welcome Marc to the Pact Council – his knowledge of feature film production and film financing will further strengthen our Board's expertise. Marc already has a long association with Pact and we are looking forward to his insight and contributions at Pact Council."

  PG Member, Matthew Justice said: "We are very lucky to have Marc on Pact Council and as Chair of the Film Policy Group. His vast experience will help to continue the work of Pact in ensuring that Independent British film production businesses are encouraged to grow, diversify and thrive. There is still much progress to be made, and having Marc involved will I am sure bring many benefits to the sector."

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  13 Feb 2013

  London UK Film Focus Dates Revealed with Breakthrough Now Open for Applications

  From 24-27 June 2013, Film London announces the return of the London UK Film Focus (LUFF) for its 10th edition. Following approximately $8.5m worth of sales in 2012, international film buyers will again head to London for the four day event to acquire British feature films and bring them to an international audience.

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  LUFF is the only export market which supports new UK films and UK film companies. It sees Film London working in partnership with the BFI and forms a key contribution to the UK's film export strategy. Backed by the Mayor of London, LUFF plays an important role in bringing valuable film business to the capital through UK sales agents, the majority of which are based in London.

  "LUFF has proven to be an established and successful event within the UK's industry calendar," says Adrian Wootton, Chief Executive, Film London and the British Film Commission, "upholding its role as an indispensible mechanism for UK films to reach international audiences."

  "After spearheading LUFF in 2003 to raise the profile of UK film in the international arena, I am proud to ring in its 10th edition as an essential industry event," says Helena Mackenzie, Head of Inward Investment & Business Development, Film London. "Over the past decade, LUFF has showcased almost 400 British films, extending their international reach and provided an invaluable platform within the industry for both international buyers and UK sales agents."

  LUFF 2013 returns with the successful Breakthrough strand, which is now open for applications. Breakthrough offers an important platform for emerging British film-makers seeking sales representation, plus providing a chance for international buyers to monitor upcoming UK talent.

  Success stories of LUFF acting as a launch pad for Breakthrough films in 2012 include Swandown (Andrew Kötting) and Film London Microwave's Borrowed Time (Jules Bishop) which both secured sales agents and international festival screenings on the back of the event.

  Film-makers interested in applying for Breakthrough must have a recently completed feature length project of theatrical quality ready for June 2013 with predominantly British content, cast or production team.

  The LUFF 2013 programme will continue to include a small number of British films represented by foreign sales agents and non-British films from UK sales agents.

  For more information on LUFF, please visit http://filmlondon.org.uk/luff

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  12 Feb 2013

  Ben Stephenson Announces New BBC Drama Commissions

  Speaking at an event last night for writers, actors, industry and press, Ben Stephenson, Controller, Drama Commissioning set out his vision for BBC Drama, looked forward to new horizons and announced a range of new commissions.

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  Stephenson said: "Drama and the BBC are inseparable – it is written through the BBC like a stick of rock. No other broadcaster in the world has drama so firmly in its DNA."

  He signalled the dawning of a new era of ambition with the arrival of a new Director General , adding: "Lord Hall and I have had early talks about the BBC as a cultural organisation with an international reputation, one to make us proud and that strengthens our creative muscles. I want to make BBC drama a cultural institution – a touchstone for quality and modernity with all the excitement and glamour of a curtain going up."

  He continued: "My aim is to build a BBC drama department that has an enormous international reputation. That means making us more British than ever - it is about applying the Danny Boyle vision to our work - a bold, adventurous, authorial approach that exports because of its Britishness not despite it. A BBC that feels inspiringly creative - where there is a buzz and creativity and anything goes optimism."

  Stephenson closed the event by stating: "Ultimately I can boil this down to one thing – I want to make the BBC the hall mark of quality drama and the automatic home for the best talent in the world."

  New Commission Announcements detailed below:

  BBC One

  All commissioned by Ben Stephenson and Danny Cohen, Controller BBC One.

  Atlantis

  13 x 45 series, created and written by Howard Overman (Misfits, Dirk Gently, Vexed, Merlin) for Saturday nights this Autumn on BBC One

  The city of Atlantis is a mysterious, ancient place; a world of bull leaping, of snake haired goddesses and of palaces so vast it was said they were built by giants.

  It's into this strange, compelling realm that the young Jason arrives and an amazing adventure begins, bringing to life the vast store of Greek myths and legends re-imagined for a new generation in an action packed 13-part series.

  Executive produced by Johnny Capps and Julian Murphy (Merlin, Hex, As If, Sugar Rush) and Howard Overman for their new production company. It will begin shooting in Wales and Morocco in April.

  The series will launch on Saturday nights this Autumn and is executive produced for BBC Cymru Wales by Bethan Jones.

  Death Comes To Pemberley

  3 x 60 serial, written by Juliette Towhidi (Calendar Girls) and made by Origin Pictures for BBC One.

  Adapted from P.D James' international bestselling novel in this 200th anniversary year of the first publication of 'Pride & Prejudice', P.D James' remarkably inventive homage to Austen brings the much-loved world to life in a dazzling and original way. Set six years after 'Pride & Prejudice' ends and centering on Austen's best-known characters, Elizabeth Bennet and Mr Darcy, the three-parter combines classic period drama with a highly suspenseful and brilliantly crafted murder mystery plot.

  The executive producers for Origin Pictures are David Thompson and Ed Rubin. The executive producer for the BBC is Polly Hill.

  Breakdown

  8 x 60 series, written by Jack Williams and Harry Williams, made by New Pictures and Company Pictures in association with Two Brothers Pictures for BBC One.

  When his son is snatched on holiday in France, Tony's exhaustive search fractures his marriage and destroys his life. Exploring the emotional cost of hope and finding when to let go, this relationship thriller shows the impact of a child's abduction.

  The executive producers are Charlie Pattinson for New Pictures, Willow Grylls and John Yorke for Company Pictures, Harry and Jack Williams for Two Brothers Pictures and Polly Hill for the BBC.

  The Interceptor

  8 x 60 series, written by Tony Saint (Margaret Thatcher: Long Walk To Finchley; Strike Back) and made by BBC Drama Productions for BBC One.

  A new gripping and high-octane eight-part series about a top secret, state of the art law enforcement team whose unswerving mission is to hunt down some of Britain's most dangerous and ruthless criminals. The executive producer is Sarah Brown (Oliver Twist, Lark Rise To Candleford).

  Jamaica Inn

  3 x 60 serial, written by Emma Frost (The White Queen, Shameless, Consuming Passion) and made by Origin Pictures for BBC One.

  A bold new adaptation of the classic Daphne du Maurier novel, set in 1820 against the foreboding backdrop of windswept Cornish moors, this highly charged, gothic romance follows young Mary Yellan as she becomes entangled in a dangerous criminal world ridden with smuggling and murder, testing her resolve and morality to the very core.

  The executive producers for Origin Pictures are David Thompson, Ed Rubin and Hilary Heath. The BBC executive producers are Sarah Stack and Stephen Wright.

  Remember Me

  3 x 60 serial, written by Gwyneth Hughes (Five Days, The Girl, The Mystery Of Edwin Drood), made by Mammoth Screen for BBC One.

  A haunting three-part mystery, on the day a frail old Yorkshireman leaves his own home to move into residential care, he becomes the sole witness to a violent death. His teenage care assistant tries to unravel the riddle of his strange and secretive life, and is drawn into an eerie and dangerous world of lost love and betrayal.

  The executive producers are Gwyneth Hughes, and Rebecca Keane and Damien Timmer for Mammoth Screen and Polly Hill for the BBC.

  BBC Two

  Commissioned by Ben Stephenson and Janice Hadlow, Controller BBC Two

  David Hare returns to BBC Two with the second and third parts of the trilogy 'Turks And Caicos' and 'Salting The Battlefield'.

  Made in 2011, directed and written by David Hare, Page Eight was the first film in an intended trilogy about the British domestic security service, M15.

  After the death of the Head of the organization, Johnny Worricker, an intelligence officer, is aware of a plot to hand control of the organization directly over to the Prime Minister, Alec Beasley. The Emmy-winning film was seen on BBC Two and PBS, and starred Bill Nighy, Rachel Weisz, Ralph Fiennes, Judy Davis and Michael Gambon.

  Both written and directed by Oscar Nominee David Hare, it will be produced by Carnival Films with Heyday Films, Runaway Fridge Films for the BBC.

  Part 2 of the trilogy: Turks And Caicos

  Johnny Worricker has walked out of his job at M15, going to the airport apparently to choose his destination at random. But his presence on the obscure islands of Turks and Caicos brings him a new problem: he is being forced by the CIA to deal with a group of ambiguous Americans who are on the islands for high-level conference on the world financial crisis. At the same time, an old girl-friend, Alison Tyrrell, is being asked to betray her boss in London in order to establish an illicit connection between the prime minister and dark goings-on in the war on terror.

  Part 3 of the trilogy: Salting The Battlefield

  Johnny Worricker and Alison Tyrrell are on the run across Europe, with M15 hard on their heels. But life in exile is proving much harder than either of them expected. Worricker knows that his only chance of resolving both his personal and his professional lives is if he returns home to confront the powerful prime minister, Alec Beasley. In a duel of wits between the two men, there will be only one winner.

  The executive producers are Gareth Neame (Downton Abbey, Any Human Heart) for Carnival Films, David Heyman for Heyday Films (Harry Potter series), David Barron for Runaway Fridge Films (Harry Potter series) and Christine Langan for BBC.

  BBC Four

  Commissioned by Ben Stephenson and Richard Klein, Controller BBC Four

  Burton And Taylor

  1 x 90 minute single drama, written by William Ivory (Women In Love, Bert & Dickie), made by BBC Drama Productions for BBC Four.

  Dominic West (The Hour, The Wire) and Helena Bonham Carter (Toast, Great Expectations), play the volatile ex-lovers in the story of their ill-fated appearance in a 1983 revival of Noel Coward's stage play, Private Lives.

  Burton & Taylor is a drama about one of the most fascinating, glamorous and tempestuous relationships of the 20th century, that of Richard Burton and Elizabeth Taylor, the two most famous movie stars of their day who played out every high and low of their love affair, their marriages and divorces right in the public eye.

  The executive producer for the BBC is Jessica Pope. The director is Richard Laxton (Effie, Him And Her, Hancock) and the producer is Lachlan McKinnon (Silent Witness).

  Exclusive Doctor Who 50th news

  As part of the BBC's blockbuster celebrations to mark the Doctor turning 50, fans will be able to see the Time Lord and his adventures like never before - in 3D! To be broadcast using some of the BBC's HD capacity, Steven Moffat, lead writer and executive producer, said: "It's about time. Technology has finally caught up with Doctor Who and your television is now bigger on the inside. A whole new dimension of adventure for the Doctor to explore."

  Recommissions

  Call The Midwife - series 3 & Christmas Special

  BBC One's record-breaking hit drama series will return for a Christmas special in 2013 and a new series in 2014. Call The Midwife was the biggest new drama series on BBC One in over a decade, and the second series currently on air is averaging a consolidated series average so far of 10.6 million/32.3%

  8 x 60 Series, written by Heidi Thomas and made by Neal Street Productions for BBC One.

  It's 1959 and the eve of the swinging Sixties. The winds of change are sweeping through the country and the residents of Nonnatus House face some momentous changes of their own.

  Death In Paradise - series 3

  8 x 60 Series, written by Robert Thorogood & others, made by Red Planet Pictures for BBC One.

  The warm, witty and intriguing hit crime drama series, which is averaging almost 8 million consolidated viewers per episode in its second run is set to be filmed on the Caribbean island of Guadeloupe and will return to BBC One for a third series next year.

  The executive producers for Red Planet Pictures are Tony Jordan and Belinda Campbell and Polly Hill for the BBC. 

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  11 Feb 2013

  Avid Names Louis Hernandez as New Chief Executive Officer

  Avid has announced today that its Board of Directors appointed Louis Hernandez as president and chief executive officer, effective today. Mr. Hernandez succeeds former president and chief executive officer Gary Greenfield, who will remain on Avid's Board of Directors.

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  Mr. Hernandez has been a member of the Avid Board since 2008. Most recently, he was also Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer of Open Solutions, Inc., a technology provider to financial institutions worldwide, which was acquired in January 2013 by Fiserv, Inc.

  "Louis is a visionary, inspirational leader with a stellar track record of driving the operations and growth of technology companies in a variety of industries," said George Billings, speaking on behalf of Avid's Board. "As lead director, he spent years developing a deep familiarity with Avid's customers, markets, and products that will allow him to quickly make a positive impact as chief executive."

  "It is an exciting opportunity to lead Avid at this very important juncture in the company's history," said Mr. Hernandez. "As the industry leader for more than 25 years, Avid continues to set the standard for non-linear-editing, media management, and collaboration in the audio, video, and broadcast markets. The company is well positioned for growth and global expansion in this fast-moving marketplace. It is exciting to be working with the Avid team, as we drive results and value for our customers, employees, and shareholders."

  Mr. Hernandez added, "On behalf of the Avid community, I want to thank Gary Greenfield for his outstanding leadership and lasting contributions to Avid and our industry."

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  08 Feb 2013

  New United Brand Launched for UK Film - 'We Are UK Film'

  Raising the international profile of UK film, nine UK film organisations come together to launch a new brand at the Berlin International Film Festival. The UK's national and regional film agencies have come together for the first time to create a new internationally facing brand for UK film - We Are UK Film.

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  Led and managed by the BFI, the UK's lead organisation for film, the new business to business umbrella brand will boost the profile of the UK's films, talent, services and locations to the rest of the world in a unified and focused way and provide a platform for the UK to do business with other international territories. Reflecting the creative excellence and vibrancy of the UK's film industry alongside its regional diversity, the new branding will be featured at international film festivals, markets and online (via www.weareukfilm.com).

  We Are UK Film launched this week at the 2013 Berlinale, which features 19 UK films in Official Selection and 150 UK films for sale at the European Film Market and will be the focus of the UK pavilion at this year's Cannes International Film Festival.

  We Are UK Film marks an important step for the BFI's new integrated international strategy, as set out in its five year plan Film Forever and led by the BFI's Head of International Isabel Davis. The new branding reflects a strategic direction designed to maximise the impact of film overall in the business market place.

  It aims to support the future growth of UK film overseas box office receipts, export sales, inward investment and co-production. It will also support activity including cultural diplomacy and exchange, policy, advocacy and continue to underline the huge impact that UK film talent and skills has internationally.

  Isabel Davis said, "We recognised that partnership and working together are essential ingredients for the future success of the UK film industry and We Are UK Film encapsulates this fresh strategic approach. I'm confident that this exciting new brand will raise the international profile of UK film's Gold Standard and ensure it continues to punch above its weight on the global stage."

  The nine UK film partner organisations are BFI, BFC (British Film Commission), British Council, Film Export UK, Creative England, Creative Scotland, Northern Ireland Screen, Film Agency for Wales and Film London with the potential for other organisations and business to adopt the new branding. We Are UK Film will also work collaboratively with DCMS, the Great Campaign, UKTI and Pact to reach an international audience.

  After a competitive pitch, led by the BFI's Marketing and Communications Director Chris Travers, All City was the creative agency appointed to fulfil the brief. All City Creative Director Charlie Loft and his team have produced a creative and primary brand mark that graphically represents the many partners involved representing the United Kingdom in a dramatic pink colour-way of stripes which comes to life in animations and online.

  Chris Travers, Director Marketing, Communications, and Audiences, BFI said, "This exciting new visual identity marks a step change for the profile of UK film internationally. With a fresh, joined up strategic approach to branding We Are UK Film can really build on UK film's world class reputation."

  The new We Are UK Film branding will be rolled out over the coming months at festivals including the Cannes International Film Festival, Tribeca and SXSW with the new artwork used for the stands, brochures, invitations and on all trade marketing and advertising.

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  08 Feb 2013

  London Film Festival Dates Revealed for 2013

  BFI Head of Exhibition and Festival Director Clare Stewart has announced that the 57th BFI London Film Festival (in partnership with American Express) will take place from Wednesday 9 October until Sunday 20 October 2013. 

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  The highly regarded BFI London Film Festival champions creativity, originality, vision and imagination by annually showcasing features, documentaries, shorts, animation and experimental films from around the world, attracting large public audiences to venues across London and bringing leading international filmmakers, new talent, industry professionals and the media to the capital for a 12-day celebration of cinema.

  Much anticipated within Europe's cultural calendar, last year's Festival hosted 227 feature films and 111 short films from 57 countries including 13 World Premieres. There were 570 filmmaker guests, drawing the highest ever audience attendance of 151,000 and a record number of industry delegates. The Festival opened with the European Premiere of Frankenweenie, closed with the European Premiere of Great Expectations and included Argo, Amour, Beasts of the Southern Wild, Silver Linings Playbook and the World Premiere of Crossfire Hurricane.

  The BFI London Film Festival is now accepting submissions for 2013 and the full programme will be announced in September. 

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  07 Feb 2013

  Multi-Million Pound Funding for Film and TV Projects Announced by Screen Yorkshire

  Screen Yorkshire has today announced it plans to invest around £3.5m in TV, film, digital and games projects over the course of 2013 through its Yorkshire Content Fund. After a series of high profile investments in film and television in 2012, Screen Yorkshire is keen to grow its portfolio, and is looking to invest in up to ten high-end TV or film projects in 2013. Screen Yorkshire can invest between £100k and £500k in such projects.

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  Sally Joynson, Chief Executive of Screen Yorkshire, said: "We've had an incredible first year for the Yorkshire Content Fund with TV investments such as Peaky Blinders for BBC2 and The Great Train Robbery heading into production soon for BBC1, along with features such as Warp Films' '71, Emu Films' Catch Me Daddy and Ecosse Films' Girl's Night Out. We now have a number of financing structures in place with co-investors that are working very well for the film and TV sectors so I'd urge producers to contact us now with their latest projects so we can continue to invest in the some of the most creative and commercial UK productions."

  The Yorkshire Content Fund, launched in Feb 2012, will invest £7.5m of European Regional Development Funding into growing TV, film, games and digital business across Yorkshire and Humber. That figure will be matched by a further £7.5m of private investment, bringing the total fund value to £15m.

  The Yorkshire Content Fund can co-invest in projects with distributors, sales agents, industry financiers, post production houses or any other source of private finance. It can be used as gap finance, mezzanine or equity along with cash-flowing tax credits.

  Screen Yorkshire recently announced its production slate so far: Ecosse Films' VE-day feature Girls' Night Out; World Productions' two feature length dramas for BBC1 entitled The Great Train Robbery; Warp Films' hotly anticipated feature '71; taut and visceral thriller Catch Me Daddy from Emu Films; and A Miracle a UK-French-German-Turkish co-production. Peaky Blinders, which filmed in autumn 2012, was the first investment from the Yorkshire Content Fund.

  Further information on the Yorkshire Content Fund and to apply visit: www.screenyorkshire.co.uk/funding

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  01 Feb 2013

  Film Industry Figures Released for 2012

  Independent figures published today by the BFI reveal that audiences are continuing to show their love for film with cinema admissions and box office for 2012 showing an increase on the previous year. The latest research data and market intelligence from the BFI Research and Statistics Unit which tracks business and cultural aspects of the UK film industry, shows that cinema admissions increased by 0.5% in 2012 to reach 172.5 million, the second highest level in the last 10 years, bringing in over £1 billion at the box office.

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  British films from mainstream blockbusters such as Skyfall and Prometheus to independent films such as The Woman in Black, The Iron Lady, Salmon Fishing in the Yemen and The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel gave the UK a combined market share of 32% (22.9% for US studio-backed films, 9% for British independent films).

  2012 was a spectacular, historic year for the UK with the 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games and the Queen's Diamond Jubilee celebrations gaining massive public attention and participation. Although the early summer marked an unsurprising downturn in cinema business, some of the weekend box office results during the national celebration period were among the highest of the year. For example, the second weekend of the Olympic Games, including 'Super Saturday' produced the sixth highest weekend of the year for the cinema business. Films on release during that period included Ted and The Dark Knight Rises.

  The Bond film Skyfall, most of which was filmed in the UK during 2012, was also the overall UK box office leader taking £102 million and still currently playing in cinemas. Other US-studio backed UK films (featuring British filmmakers, crew, studios, locations, etc), included The Dark Knight Rises, Prometheus and War Horse.

  In addition to attracting audiences, these internationally successful British films also showcase British filmmaking expertise and the excellence of the UK's production services, facilities and crew. 2012 has also seen increased investment in UK production facilities with the opening of the new £100 million Warner Bros Leavesden Studios as well as the studio's investment in a world-renowned London sound studio. Pinewood Studios also opened its new Richard Attenborough Stage and is planning to double the capacity of the studios as well as investing directly in feature film projects.

  2012's leading UK independent film release The Woman in Black became the fifth biggest independent UK film to be released with over £21 million at the UK box office, followed by The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel with £20.4 million, and The Iron Lady and Nativity 2: Danger in the Manger! earning more than £9 million each. Nine of the top 20 independent UK films were co-funded by the Lottery through the BFI's Film Fund: The Woman in Black, The Iron Lady, Salmon Fishing in the Yemen, Seven Psychopaths, StreetDance 2, Shame, Great Expectations, The Angels' Share and Shadow Dancer.

  The total investment in UK-based film production in 2012 was £927 million, a 29% drop on 2011's record-breaking £1.29 billion. This total includes increased production investment for domestic UK productions and co-productions.

  UK films accounted for £900 million of investment across 218 films. Within this figure there was an increase in the amount of investment in UK domestic films such as Belle, Spike Island, The Invisible Woman and Les Misèrables, totalling £223.5 million, a 16% increase on 2011's £192 million, although fewer films went into production – 159 compared to 238.

  However, there is a time lag in obtaining information on all low and micro-budget activity in the UK until later in the year and therefore the overall number of productions for 2012 is likely to increase by the time that data is consolidated. The expenditure on co-productions where British film companies work with international partners to fund and make films such as A Long Way Down, I Give It a Year and Long Walk to Freedom, also saw an increase in production spend in the UK with £73 million from 38 films, an increase of 17% on 2011's investment of £62.3 million.

  International inward investment films which played a major part in achieving 2011's record-breaking year for production spend, saw a drop in the number of films being made and the amount of production spend which reflects a flattening out of global film production investment. In addition, the production spend on Skyfall was accounted for in 2011 although it filmed in the UK through to May.

  A total of 26 films including All You Need Is Kill for Warner Bros and starring Tom Cruise, Red 2 for Lionsgate/Summit with Bruce Willis, Jack Ryan for Paramount with Chris Pine, Fast and Furious 6 and Kick Ass 2 both for Universal contributed £631 million compared to the 34 films in 2011 which spent £1 billion.

  For the full report please click here. 

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  01 Feb 2013

  Pinewood Reveals New £200m Studio Expansion Plan

  Pinewood Shepperton plc, a leading provider of services to the global film and television industry, announces that it will today be submitting a planning application to South Bucks District Council for the expansion of Pinewood Studios, called the Pinewood Studios Development Framework ("PSDF"). This follows extensive consultation with a wide range of local and national stakeholders, as well as with producers and developers of creative content.

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  The PSDF is a scheme of national importance designed to address increasing global demand for capacity in the UK and deliver growth for the next 15-20 years. It comprises a substantial expansion of the existing Pinewood Studios by adding a total of 100,000 sq m of new facilities, including studios and stages, workshops, production offices and streetscapes for filming. Once complete, this would make a major contribution to achieving Government priority objectives to grow the UK's creative industries, promote growth and create new jobs.

  The proposals will enable the Company to capture increasing international demand for studio facilities and respond to rising competition from outside the UK. They will also cement Pinewood Studios' position as a world leading hub for the global creative industries.

  The PSDF is a significant private sector infrastructure investment in the UK, consistent with Government policy, and will, according to Amion Consulting, have a positive impact on the economy by:

   • providing £194m of private sector infrastructure investment

   • supporting over 8,100 full time jobs

   • creating some 3,100 net additional jobs

   • producing an additional £149m in Gross Value Added (GVA)

   • providing an additional contribution to the Exchequer of £36m per annum

   • generating an additional £37m per annum in UK exports

  Ivan Dunleavy, Chief Executive, Pinewood Shepperton plc said:

  "This is a critical opportunity for the creative industries and particularly for the UK film industry. Global demand for filmed entertainment is increasing and the UK remains one of the leading destinations to produce creative content. We have the talent and skills and the Government has expressed its commitment to the industry through the various tax reliefs now available. Without infrastructure to meet the rising demand, the UK will inevitably turn away business. Pinewood Studios, the UK film industry and UK plc cannot afford to allow this to happen."

  Danny Boyle (Artistic Director, 2012 London Olympic Opening Ceremony, Slumdog Millionaire, 127 Hours, Trainspotting, Sunshine) said:

  "Many of the great British films which were showcased at the Olympic opening ceremony such as Oliver Twist, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang and Skyfall were produced at Pinewood. If we are, as a country, to capitalise on our film heritage then we need state of the art facilities like those which Pinewood is proposing to both attract major Hollywood films and nurture and bring on the next generation of young independent British film makers".

  Eric Fellner, Working Title (Les Misérables) said:

  "Pinewood is one of the world's most iconic studios and when we came to shoot Les Misérables, it was the obvious choice. We were the very first production on the massive, new Richard Attenborough Stage and we used it to full effect and built some amazing sets. We fully support Pinewood's expansion plans as the UK needs more first class studio space to encourage the growth of the film and tv sector. It will also help maintain the UK's leading position in the film industry".

  Ridley Scott (Prometheus, Blade Runner, Alien, Gladiator, Robin Hood) said:

  "I have long been a supporter of Pinewood and Shepperton and believe that they offer some of the best facilities in the world. There is no doubt in my mind that the UK has to keep investing in new technology, skills and infrastructure to keep pace with international competition. The expansion at Pinewood is long overdue".

  Amanda Nevill, Chief Executive, British Film Institute said:

  "Pinewood remains one of the key building blocks of the UK film industry and there are many other smaller companies working in the creative industries today that depend on the films it attracts for their own growth. The capacity of the studios in the UK to respond to opportunities is key to the on-going success of British film. In order to secure inward investment and help develop and nurture the next generation of home grown talent, the BFI supports Pinewood's ambitions to expand and invest".

  For further information please go to http://www.pinewoodgroup.com/pinewoodexpansion

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  30 Jan 2013

  BFI Launches £4m UK Film Festivals Fund

  The BFI has launched its new Film Festival Fund, a key part of its Audience Fund which aims to help boost the film choices available to audiences across the UK – a central strategic priority for the BFI as set out in its five year vision, Film Forever.  The fund is now open for applications from UK-based festivals taking place on or after 1 April 2013.

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  The BFI has allocated £1m per year for up to four years (2013-17) to the Film Festival Fund. The fund will support a broad range of film festivals, from those with a local and/or specialised focus that serve specific communities through to UK festivals of national or international significance.

  Tim Cagney, Deputy CEO of the BFI comments:

  Today's announcement marks the latest stage in the roll out of the BFI's Film Forever five year plan and is an exciting prospect for audiences. We're pleased to offer this support for film festivals as part of our strategic priority to enhance opportunities for UK audiences, enabling them to access a wide range of British and international stories which celebrate and reflect the rich diversity of life in the UK and beyond.

  A key part of the UK's cultural infrastructure, film festivals inspire audiences, artists, filmmakers and professionals alike. As such they have the potential to make a substantial contribution to the BFI's strategic priorities for developing UK audiences and film talent.

  The BFI is keen to support a wide range of festival activity through its Film Festival Fund. It aims to foster greater sustainability within the sector and encourage new initiatives and ideas that incentivise film festivals to work together, and to engage with the film sector more widely through the opportunities offered by the BFI's UK Audience Network.

  There are many film festivals held in the UK each year, ranging in size, ambition, focus and type – all of which, regardless of scale, can make a valuable contribution to the cultural, social and economic environment, both locally and more widely.

  Festivals can apply to the BFI's Film Festival Fund for varying levels of support depending on their scope and scale, with available funding ranging from £5,000 for a small regional festival up to £300,000 for a major festival which can demonstrate substantial international significance. The BFI will contribute around 20% to 50% of the costs of the festival with applicants required to demonstrate the amount of partnership funding they are able to secure (for example through sponsorship, other public or private funding, or earned income).

  Through the £1m annual Film Festival Fund (2013-17), the BFI will support two categories of festival:

  Strand 1 (c. £500k per year): regional festivals catering principally to local/regional audiences, or with a narrower specialist theme that enables them to reach audiences from further across the UK. These festivals are likely to be smaller in scale, focused on audiences rather than industry, and not generally attracting industry delegation.Strand 2 (c. £500,000 per year): UK festivals with an international or UK-wide reach and profile, which enhance opportunities for the UK film industry nationally and internationally and help increase audience choice.

  The BFI Film Festival Fund is now open for applications from UK-based festivals taking place on or after 1 April 2013. Further information including guidelines for applicants, application forms and FAQs are available here. 

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  30 Jan 2013

  Kevin Tsujihara to Become New CEO of Warner Bros.

  Time Warner Chairman and CEO Jeff Bewkes and Warner Bros. Chairman and CEO Barry Meyer today announced that Kevin Tsujihara will become the next Chief Executive Officer of Warner Bros. Entertainment. Mr. Tsujihara will become CEO beginning March 1, 2013, succeeding Mr. Meyer, who will remain as Chairman through 2013.

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  In making the announcement Mr. Bewkes said, "Kevin is one of the most effective and respected executives within Time Warner, and the right leader to ensure Warner Bros.' preeminence into the future. He brings the perfect combination of strategic thinking, financial discipline, digital vision, and management style to build on Warner Bros.' track record of success under Barry Meyer."

  Mr. Meyer added, "In working with Kevin for nearly 20 years, I've come to know and value a talented executive with a passion for this company and its people. He has skillfully guided one of the most complex businesses at Warner Bros. during a time of transition in the home entertainment sector, and has a deep appreciation and respect for the films and TV shows we create. Kevin has a rare combination of extraordinary business acumen and a love for the art of storytelling, and I'm confident he will be a great leader for Warner Bros."

  Over the next several months, Mr. Meyer and Mr. Tsujihara will work together with other members of Warner Bros. senior executive team, including Warner Bros. Television President Bruce Rosenblum and Warner Bros. Pictures President Jeff Robinov, to ensure an orderly transition.

  As President of Warner Bros. Home Entertainment Group since 2005, Mr. Tsujihara currently oversees the company's home video, digital distribution, videogames, anti-piracy, and emerging technology operations.

  Mr. Tsujihara said, "It is an honor to have the opportunity to lead this storied business. We're at a pivotal moment in the histories of Hollywood and entertainment: technology is changing the canvas we use to create theatrical releases; home entertainment is rapidly evolving; and the definition of television now includes viewing across a wide range of devices and services. But in my mind one thing remains clear and constant: Warner Bros.' unmatched ability to tell stories that inspire, educate, and entertain global audiences. We are extremely fortunate to have strong relationships with some of the industry's most gifted talent and together we will continue to use those relationships, our scale, and our passion to build on Warner Bros. great legacy."

  Mr. Tsujihara joined Warner Bros. in 1994 as Director, Special Projects, Finance to assist in the management of the company's interest in Six Flags. Across his nearly two decades with the company he has served as Executive Vice President, Corporate Business Development & Strategy, Warner Bros. Entertainment and, Executive Vice President, New Media, responsible for the oversight of all Warner Bros.' new media endeavors.

  Mr. Tsujihara received his bachelor's degree in business administration from the University of Southern California and his MBA from Stanford University. He sits on the Board of Directors for the MPAA, City Year Los Angeles, an education focused, nonprofit organization, the Los Angeles Sports & Entertainment Commission, Kabam, the Verdugo Hills Hospital Foundation, and the Entertainment Software Association.

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  23 Jan 2013

  Take Advantage of Stage and Set Discounts with Wimbledon Studios

  PG Affiliate, Wimbledon Film and Television Studios is one the freshest and most forward thinking production hubs in London today.  Wimbledon Studios have gone from strength to strength in the past two years of trading so by way of a thank you to all those who have come through their doors and helped them become one of London's leading studio facilities, Wimbledon are kicking off 2013 with a great offer to get your production senses tingling.

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  Closer to central London than any other studio complex, and boasting Sound Stages, Free standing sets, production and post-production facilities, Wimbledon Studios has a huge range of services for the modern Film and TV industry making it a one-stop-shop for production companies and broadcasters alike.

  If you want to make use of one of the brilliant two 8,000 sq ft stages or the brand new 5,000 sq ft stage, you can do so now by taking advantage of a great '8 weeks for the price of 6' offer! Book 6 weeks of shoot time throughout 2013 in one of these beautiful stages by the end of January and receive 2 weeks completely free! All stages come with exclusive use of make-up rooms, costume facilities and dressing rooms.

  Alternatively, why not book a day in one of Wimbledon Studios' unique free-standing sets. From a Police Custody to an accident and Emergency, an office or canteen to their infamous street set, Wimbledon Studios has a plethora of sets ready for you to use today! And until the end of January, they are offering one day completely free for each day you book!

  With the expansion of the studio and the opening of a brand new stage, Wimbledon Film and Television Studios has fast become a place to be in UK TV and Film Production. Acting as a base for excellent British comedies 'Spy' and 'Episodes,' and taking care of 'The Iron Lady's House of Commons scenes, Wimbledon is not adverse to handling clients such as the BBC, Hat Trick, Tiger Aspect and creative from both Channel 4 and ITV.

  If you would like to enquire about booking stages or sets at Wimbledon Studios or the special offers, please contact Rebecca Williams, Studio Manager on 020 3468 9800  or rebecca@wimbledonstudios.com.

  You can visit the Wimbledon Studios website at www.wimbledonstudios.co.uk.

  

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  23 Jan 2013

  Robertson Taylor Insurance Joins The Production Guild

  We're delighted to announce that ROBERTSON TAYLOR INSURANCE BROKERS has joined The Production Guild as a Company Affiliate. For over 30 years RT has specialised exclusively in the Media & Entertainment insurance industry, covering many well known Musicians, Tours, Celebrities and Productions.

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  With the recent merging with W&P Longreach under the Entertainment Insurance Partners Ltd Group, Robertson Taylor now offers expertise and experienced, skilled staff in the areas of Film, Music, Theatre & Sports, with offices in London, Los Angeles, New York, Nashville and Toronto.

  In January 2012, as part of their push into Film & TV, some key acquisitions were made with Greg Jones and his team, including Deanna Noccero, joining the Los Angeles office and Paul Hillier joining to develop the London team, where he was recently joined by Rhona Alsworth.

  Greg Jones comes to us with over 35 years in the Insurance Industry. He has worked at companies such as AIG, Chubb Custom Market, Albert G. Ruben, Near North Insurance Brokerage, USI Entertainment Insurance Services and most recently, C.M. Meiers (where he attained "Top Producer" status). Over the course of his career, Greg has provided insurance for over a thousand feature films, hundreds of television shows, and thousands of commercials. He has lectured at numerous institutions on production insurance, including The American Film Institute, USC School of Cinematic Arts, and Temple University's Fox School of Business.

  Deanna Nocero has been providing insurance services to the entertainment industry for over 11 years. She has worked at companies such as AON/Albert G. Ruben and most recently, C.M. Meiers. Over the years, Deanna has worked with several major studios and prominent independent production companies. In the television arena, Deanna was instrumental in creating an exclusive production insurance program for Fremantle Media North America, producers of numerous reality based shows, including "American Idol". She has also worked with several of the largest business management firms in the U.S. and provided insurance for numerous music touring groups.

  Paul Hillier has been working in the UK Media insurance industry for 10 years with many well known producers and production companies. He has also provided advice, risk solutions and annual covers to companies such as post production, editing and VFX facilities, equipment hire, and film sales and distribution companies. Over the last 5 years he has specialised in TV & Film productions from features and comedy to high end dramas, and animation to factual shows and documentaries.

  Rhona Alsworth joins us after spending 10 years on Aon's media and entertainment team, where she was a key account executive for several large broadcasters and "super-indies". She also serviced many independent studio and feature films and television productions. She has also worked with many young film producers and students providing seminars and advice on UK production issues.

  Paul told us "It had been my intention to join The Production Guild for several years, but in moving to RT that ambition was realised as I have long been aware that the PG is the key association representing the top producers and production staff in the UK, so signing up as an affiliate was a bit of a "no-brainer". While Robertson Taylor as a name is relatively new to the Film & TV arena, we have staff that have been working in Film & TV for many years elsewhere, as well as associations within Walton & Parkinson (one of the recently merged companies in the group) that go back many years covering Oscar-winning pictures.

  Paul continued, "It is a new era for us, and it is very exciting to be working for such an ambitious and forward thinking company as RT, especially when supported by, and supporting, Greg and his team, who are as well-respected as anybody working in Film and TV".

  Contact details and staff contacts for the London, LA and New York offices can by found here and you can visit the Robertson Taylor Insurance website at
  www.robertson-taylor.com.

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  23 Jan 2013

  Registration Open for Next Creative England Crew Night in Birmingham

  Following 10 successful crew nights attracting over 1,600 people in 2012, the next crew night from PG Business Partner, Creative England rolls into Birmingham in February. The event is open to producers, production companies, facility houses and crew across the film, TV and digital sectors.

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  Come along to the The Studio in Birmingham between 6-8pm on Wednesday 13th February to find out more about how the Creative England production liaison service can help you find locations, crew & opportunities in the English regions.

  Find out more too about their national crew and facilities and locations databases, and meet members of the Creative England Production & Locations team who can help oil the wheels on your production.

  The event is partnered by The Producers Forum, an independent organisation serving the vibrant community of filmmakers and content producers in Birmingham, the West Midlands and beyond.

  This crew night is being sponsored by our resident sponsors Brookson

  To book your place go to: http://crewnightbirmingham.eventbrite.co.uk.

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  23 Jan 2013

  BFI Announces Revamped £4m Distribution Fund

  The BFI today launches its new-look Distribution Fund to boost audience choice and enrich film culture UK wide. With a budget of £4m per year the BFI Distribution Fund, a remodelled version of the former P&A Fund, will support the distribution of high quality British independent and specialised films, helping them to find new audiences right across the UK, particularly outside London.

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  By encouraging distributors to harness digital technologies and explore new and innovative ways to bring films to audiences both in cinemas and across additional platforms, the Distribution Fund will also support the UK industry to incubate fresh ideas and practices and help foster new models for growth in the rapidly evolving film distribution landscape.

  The launch of the Distribution Fund marks another step in the roll out of Film Forever, the BFI's five year plan to support the UK's film industry. The Fund will help to increase the size, diversity and geographical spread of audiences viewing specialised and British independent film, and is key to the BFI's strategic priority of expanding education and learning opportunities and boosting audience choice across the UK.

  Ben Roberts, Director of the BFI Film Fund, comments:

  Distribution of independent and specialised films in the UK still carries a high degree of financial risk which can make ambitious release programmes challenging, especially for independent distributors. By sharing some of that risk and encouraging distributors to be bold and creative in their approach, the BFI Distribution Fund will be key to helping us increase choice and bring great films to audiences across the UK.

  The £4m Distribution Fund is now comprised of four strands specifically designed to address different types of films, release strategies and the associated challenges and opportunities in the marketplace:

  Big Audience

  The Big Audience strand will provide significant awards of around £250-300k, helping to take high quality independent British films with commercial appeal and strong marketable elements to a wide UK audience. Distributors will contribute at least 50% of the total P&A (prints and advertising) costs and the BFI's funding will significantly enhance the scale and scope of the distribution strategy, ensuring the film is released on at least 100 screens and seen by cinema audiences across the nations and regions of the UK.

  Breakout

  Breakout awards will increase audience reach for exemplary independent UK and specialised films. With funding awards of around £100-£150k, Breakout awards will ensure critically acclaimed films with audience appeal and strong marketable elements can be seen on more screens, particularly outside London, helping to bring the best in UK and world cinema to new audiences across the UK.

  New Models

  The New Models strand will encourage and support new thinking in distribution and marketing through experimental and ambitious releases that explore new opportunities outside traditional theatrical and marketing routes. The BFI's funding will support the distribution of high quality new British and specialised films as part of a multiplatform release and/or using original marketing strategies and creative audience-building opportunities offered through cross-media activity. The BFI aims to compile data and findings from releases supported through the New Models strand, to help the UK industry overcome challenges and exploit opportunities for growth in an ever-changing marketplace.

  Sleepers

  This brand new approach will provide flexible, agile and responsive support for in-release films that have achieved exceptional weekend box office results and taken the market by surprise. The BFI will monitor and assess opening weekend performance and identify and invite distributors to apply for 'fast-track' awards of around £20-40k, where the funding can make a real impact in helping such films capitalise on their unexpectedly strong performance and reach the widest possible audience, particularly at a regional level. As an entirely new approach, the BFI is initially launching the Sleepers strand as a pilot.

  Applications for the BFI Distribution Fund are now open to companies with experience of film distribution in the UK. Guidelines and application forms are available from the BFI website here. 

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  22 Jan 2013

  Applications Open for 'Stoke Your Fires' Filmmakers' Marketplace

  Film4, the BFI and PG Business Partner, Creative England will be among the organisations at the inaugural Stoke Your Fires marketplace. The event is specifically designed for producers, filmmakers, animators or writers who have projects ready to go and would like the opportunity to pitch these ideas with potential investors and partners. Projects can range from having a completed film, documentary or animation looking for sales or distribution to having a fully developed script/treatment or concept that requires finance.

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  The Marketplace will be held on Monday 4th March and organisations attending offering investment and funding opportunities include Creative England, BFI, Cascade Pictures, The Works, Salt, Moviehouse Entertainment, Highpoint Media, Guerilla Films and Film4.

  Places are strictly limited. Click here to download the application form.

  All applications must be returned to info@producersforum.org.uk before 5pm on Friday 1st February 2013.

  Please note: The application process is free to enter however all succesful applicants will be charged a £50 administration fee in advance on the event. 

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  22 Jan 2013

  Sky Reveals its Biggest Slate of Original British Drama

  Sky has stepped up its commitment to original British drama, announcing a line up of brand new projects featuring stars including Dominic Cooper, Vanessa Redgrave, David Harewood and Kylie Minogue. The diverse slate - the biggest in Sky's history - includes a drama based on the life of Ian Fleming, a season of films from acclaimed female screenwriters and the directorial debuts of actors Idris Elba, Matt Smith and Marc Warren.

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  Running across Sky's portfolio of entertainment channels, the slate of new drama commissions, complemented by popular returning series, is part of Sky's drive to bring "more high-quality, exclusive programmes to customers". It is supported by Sky's commitment to invest £600 million a year in home-grown programming by 2014, an increase of 50% over three years.

  The new commissions include:

  • Fleming (Sky Atlantic), starring Hollywood actor Dominic Cooper in the lead role in a series based on the life of Bond creator Ian Fleming

  • The Reckless Season (Sky Living), a season of five original dramas from some of Britain's most renowned and critically-acclaimed female screenwriters, including Sally Wainwright, Gwyneth Hughes and Annie Griffin

  • The return of Playhouse Presents (Sky Arts) this year features the directorial debuts of Idris Elba, Matt Smith and Marc Warren, with Elba and Warren both also scripting their films. The season of dramas - which will be complemented by a further collection of one-off comedy films includes cast members, Kylie Minogue, Mat Horne, David Harewood, Anna Friel and Vanessa Redgrave

  • Mad Dogs The Finale (Sky 1), a two-part conclusion to the BAFTA-nominated drama starring Max Beesley, Philip Glenister, John Simm and Marc Warren

  In addition, a brand new medical drama from Jed Mercurio, under the working title Critical is currently in development for Sky 1

  These new titles join the previously announced series:

  • Moonfleet (Sky 1), a two-part family drama adaptation by Ashley Pharaoh (Life on Mars, Ashes to Ashes) of the classic John Meade Falkner story

  • The Smoke (Sky 1), created by Lucy Kirkwood (Skins), following the adrenaline fuelled and gut-wrenchingly emotional stories of the White Watch crew of a London fire station.

  • Strike Back (Sky 1) starring Philip Winchester and Sullivan Stapleton, returns for a fourth series later this year.

  • The Tunnel (Sky Atlantic). Ben Richards (Spooks, Party Animals) heads up the writing team based on the format of The Bridge and set against the backdrop of Europe in crisis.

  • Dracula (Sky Living) based on a script from Cole Haddon, the series stars Jonathan Rhys Myers and begins filming this summer.

  The slate was commissioned by Sky's Head of Drama, Anne Mensah. She comments: "At Sky we have a strong ambition to deliver modern, original dramas that are both entertaining and intelligent. We seek to bring our customers the most innovative and bold pieces produced by some of the brightest talent in drama programming today. Our broad range of entertainment channels has allowed us to commission this diverse and rich drama slate, providing customers with a wealth of choice and I'm thrilled to be able to unveil this fantastic line up. The most exciting thing is that this is just the part of the growing drama story at Sky."

  Stuart Murphy, Director, Entertainment Channels adds: "We're absolutely delighted to be announcing such a strong group of dramas for our customers. These new commissions bring together world-class talent, both on and off screen, and are unique pieces of television that exemplify the scale of our ambition. I am excited and fully supportive of Anne Mensah's vision as she drives forward a strategy that will deliver our customers the highest-quality programming."

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  The Pixel Lab 2013 Opens for Applications

  Power to the Pixel is now accepting applications to The Pixel Lab, its leading cross-media workshop for experienced European media professionals. The scheme aims to give participants an understanding of how to create, finance and distribute story IP across multiple platforms, and maximise audience engagement.

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  The Pixel Lab can also offer participants the opportunity to cultivate new professional partnerships across different media industry sectors.

  Encouraging a collaborative, project-focused environment, participants will have their ideas challenged and informed by practising cross-media professionals, with networking opportunities and one-to-one meetings.

  This year's tutors include cross-media writer and producer Sean Coleman (UK); artistic advisor for Venice Biennale College & former executive director at ARTE France Cinéma, Michel Reilhac (FR); media architect and educator, Inga von Staden (DE). See the full list of tutors here.

  All participants attend an initial six-day residential workshop in Belgium. Participants attending with a project go on to receive three months of distance mentoring, followed by a four-day workshop including attendance at Power to the Pixel's annual Cross-Media Forum in London in October 2013.

  Past participants include European funders, commissioners, film/TV/games producers, writers, story architects, interactive designers, directors, format developers, arts professionals, advertising executives, developers...

  Applying with a project:

  Only producers/IP owners who have extensive experience of taking a creative project to market will be considered.

  Projects must have stories with the potential to extend across at least two platforms eg. film, games, TV, mobile, publishing, live event, social media, interactive.

  Application deadline is Friday 5 April, 18:00 BST.

  Please visit the Power to the Pixel website for full details and to download an application form or email lab@powertothepixel.com with any enquiries.

  The Pixel Lab is supported by the MEDIA Programme of the European Union, Creative Wallonia and Wallimage CrossMedia, Creative Skillset Film Skills Fund as part of A Bigger Future 2 Fund and TorinoFilmLab.
  

  The Pixel Lab 2013

  Now open for applications!

   

  Power to the Pixel is now accepting applications to The Pixel Lab, its leading cross-media workshop for experienced European media professionals.

   

  Participants will come away with an unrivalled understanding of how to create, finance and distribute story IP across multiple platforms, and maximise audience engagement. The Pixel Lab is also a prime opportunity to cultivate new professional partnerships across different media industry sectors.

   

  Encouraging a collaborative, project-focused environment, participants will have their ideas challenged and informed by the world's top practising cross-media professionals, with plenty of networking opportunities and one-to-one meetings.

   

  This year's tutors include cross-media writer and producer Sean Coleman (UK); artistic advisor for Venice Biennale College & former executive director at ARTE France Cinéma, Michel Reilhac (FR); media architect and educator, Inga von Staden (DE). See the full list of tutors here.

   

  All participants attend an initial six-day residential workshop in Belgium. Participants attending with a project go on to receive three months of distance mentoring, followed by a four-day workshop including attendance at PttP's annual Cross-Media Forum in London in October 2013.

   

  Past participants include European funders, commissioners, film/TV/games producers, writers, story architects, interactive designers, directors, format developers, arts professionals, advertising executives, developers…

   

  Applying with a project:

  Only producers/IP owners who have extensive experience of taking a creative project to market will be considered.

   

  Projects must have stories with the potential to extend across at least two platforms eg. film, games, TV, mobile, publishing, live event, social media, interactive.

   

  Application deadline is Friday 5 April, 18:00 BST.

   

  Please visit our website for full details and to download an application form or email lab@powertothepixel.com with any enquiries.

   

  The Pixel Lab is supported by the MEDIA Programme of the European Union, Creative Skillset via the Film Skills Fund and TorinoFilmLab.

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  18 Jan 2013

  The Collective Announce the London Metropolitan Studios Open for Filming

  PG Business Partner, The Collective is extremely proud to present London Metropolitan Studios – a new filming facility within the M25 totalling over 100,000sq/ft of studio space. Brand new to the filming market, London Metropolitan Studios comes complete with two pillar-less 35,000 sq/ft studios, plus a further 35,000 sq/ft studio space (each with 9.7m height clearance), production offices, kitchen with canteen, storage areas, and extensive secure parking for 200+ vehicles.

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  Ideally situated just 9 miles from Central London, the studios are only 5 miles away from Ealing, 10 miles from Pinewood, and within a good proximity of Shepperton, Elstree, and Leavesden. There are good transport links into London and local amenities within walking distance.

  "We are extremely excited about the potential of this brand new facility to the filming market" says The Collective MD Antony Iredale "with the anticipated boom in TV dramas and feature films this year, London Metropolitan Studios has come at the perfect time for larger-scale productions looking to set up shop. We expect it to make a big impression on the location landscape for 2013."

  PLEASE CLICK HERE TO VIEW A FULL BROCHURE

  Or, if you would like to speak with The Collective's dedicated account manager, please get in touch with Lucinda Barber:

  0207 284 8905 / lucinda@location-collective.co.uk.

  

   

   

   

   

   

      
  

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  17 Jan 2013

  Over 90 PG Members Represented from 10 Oscar Nominated Features

  We are delighted to offer a huge congratulations to over 90 PG members who have been represented within 10 Oscar nominated feature films: 

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  Les Miserables (Nominations Best picture, Lead Actor, Supporting Actress, Production Design, Costume Design, Make Up & Hair, Sound Mixing)

  Ann Ormesher Johnson – Assistant Accountant
  Bernie Belle – Line Producer
  Eve Swannell – Production Co-ordinator
  Vinnie Jassal – Location Scout
  Michele Tandy – Financial Controller
  Aneta Chalas – Production Secretary
  Clair Hanson – Assistant Accountant
  Oliver Mitchell – Assistant Accountant
  Brigitte Ward-Holmes – Construction Buyer 

  Anna Karenina (Nominations Original Score, Cinematography, Production Design, Costume Design)

  Paul Murphy – 1st Assistant Accountant
  Clair Mitchell – Payroll Accountant
  Paula Chidgey – PG Accounts Trainee
  Jon Duncan – Financial Controller
  Alexandra Ferguson – Co-Producer
  Tim Wellspring – Unit Production Manager
  Martin Harrison – 1st Assistant Director
  Joe Downs – Assistant Accountant
  Christopher Stoaling – 2nd Assistant Director

  Skyfall (Nominations Original score, original song, Cinematography, Sound mixing, sound editing)

  Andrew Noakes – Co-Producer/Financial Controller
  Nazmeen Dhansey – Assistant Accountant
  Jeremy Johns – Unit Production Manager
  Alastair McNeil – Assistant Accountant
  Stephanie Bamberg – Production Co-ordinator
  Anthony Waye – Production Manager
  Callum McDougall – Executive Producer/UPM
  Mark Beaumont – Production Accountant
  Arabella Gilbert – Assistant Production Co-ordinator
  Hannah Godwin – Production Co-ordinator
  Philip Lobban – Location Scout
  Russell Lodge – Location Manager
  Angus Moore Gordon – Production Manager        
  Denise Hanrahan – Production Co-ordinator
  John Udall – Cost Accountant
  Charlie Hayes – Location Assistant
  Christian Holden – 1st Assistant Accountant    
  Fraser Grant – Location Accountant
  Janine Modder – Production Supervisor
  Terry Bamber – Assistant Director
  Eduardo Rodrigalvarez – Production Assistant
  James Grant – Supervising Location Manager

  Life of Pi (Nominations Best Film, Director, Adapted Screenplay, original song, Original score, Cinematography, Editing, Production Design, Sound editing, sound mixing, Special Visual Effects)

  Brigitte Ward-Holmes – Construction Administrator
  David Jones – 1st Assistant Accountant

  Frankenweenie (Nominations Animated Film)

  Simon Quinn – Line Producer
  Joan Schneider – Unit Production Manager
  Jeffrey Broom – Production Accountant
  Adam Hughes – Production Assistant
  James Broom – 1st Assistant Accountant
  Serena Nutting – Production Assistant
  Andrew Bonner – Production Co-ordinator

  Zero Dark Thirty (Nominations Best Film, Original Screenplay, Leading Actress, Editing, sound editing)

  Jane Soans – Location Manager / Scout
  Philippa Naughten – Production Manager

  Snow White and The Huntsman (Nominations Visual Effects, Costume Design)

  Sarah Bradshaw - Co-Producer / Unit Production Manager
  Michael Mann - Assistant Co-ordinator
  Valeria Bullo - Assistant Co-ordinator (2nd Unit)
  Helen Swanwick-Thorpe - Production Secretary
  Julian Murray - Construction Accountant
  Farnaz Donavan - Payroll Accountant
  Peter Eardley - Payroll Accountant
  Karen Birtchnell - Payroll Accountant
  Helen Seery - UK Accountant
  Lucy Howell - Assistant Accountant
  Beryl Brown - Assistant Accountant
  Karen Bicknell - Assistant Accountant
  Alyson Ripo - Accounts Assistant
  Bill Darby - Supervising Location Manager
  Georgette - Assistant Location Manager
  Philip Lobban - Location Scout
  Teresa Darby - Location Manager
  Ana Stichini - SFX Administrator (Dept Manager)

  The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey (Nominations Makeup and Hairstyling, Production design, Visual effects)

  Fiona Harper - Production Runner (UK)
  Nik Korda – Unit Production Manager (UK Unit)

  Prometheus (Nominations Visual Effects)

  Nik Korda - Co-Producer / Unit Production Manager
  Mary Richards - Line Producer
  Hermione Ninnim - Production Manager
  James Smith - Production Manager (Additional Sequences & Promo Films)
  Sam Breckman - Production Manager (Iceland)
  Pippa Suren - Assistant Production Co-ordinator
  Aneta Chalas - Production Secretary
  Sarah Trowse - Production Accountant   
  Claire Mitchell - Construction Accountant
  Ciaran Moran - Payroll Accountant   
  Tanya Ruby - Payroll Accountant
  Ashifa Lalani - Location Accountant
  Rachel Welch - 1st Assistant Accountant
  Emma Brazier - Assistant Accountant
  Paul Zieleniec - Assistant Accountant (Prep)
  Matthew Bovington - Assistant Accountant
  Kay Di Rezze - Assistant Accountant
  Richard Slinn - Assistant Accountant   
  Cristiano D’Urso - Assistant Location Accountant
  Charlie Hayes - Assistant Location Manager (Skye Shoot)
  Hamish Ward - Construction Accounts Clerk

  The Pirates: Band of Misfits (Nominations Animated film)

  Paula Poveda-Urrutia – VFX Studio Co-ordinator

   

  The full list of Oscar nominations can be found here.

  We are delighted to offer a huge congratulations to over 90 PG members who have been represented within 10 Oscar nominated feature films:

   

  Les Miserables (Nominations Best picture, Lead Actor, Supporting Actress, Production Design, Costume Design, Make Up & Hair, Sound Mixing,

   

  Ann Ormesher Johnson – Assistant Accountant

  Bernie Belle – Line Producer

  Eve Swannell – Production Co-ordinator

  Vinnie Jassal – Location Scout

  Michele Tandy – Financial Controller

  Aneta Chalas – Production Secretary

  Clair Hanson – Assistant Accountant

  Oliver Mitchell – Assistant Accountant

  Brigitte Ward-Holmes – Construction Buyer

   

  Anna Karenina (Nominations Original Score, Cinematography, Production Design, Costume Design)

   

  Paul Murphy – 1^st Assistant Accountant

  Clair Mitchell – Payroll Accountant

  Paula Chidgey – PG Accounts Trainee

  Jon Duncan – Financial Controller

  Alexandra Ferguson – Co-Producer

  Tim Wellspring – Unit Production Manager

  Martin Harrison – 1^st Assistant Director

  Joe Downs – Assistant Accountant

  Christopher Stoaling – 2^nd Assistant Director

   

  Skyfall (Nominations Original score, original song, Cinematography, Sound mixing, sound editing)

   

  Andrew Noakes – Co-Producer/Financial Controller

  Nazmeen Dhansey – Assistant Accountant

  Jeremy Johns – Unit Production Manager

  Alastair McNeil – Assistant Accountant

  Stephanie Bamberg – Production Co-ordinator

  Anthony Waye – Production Manager

  Callum McDougall – Executive Producer/UPM

  Mark Beaumont – Production Accountant

  Arabella Gilbert – Assistant Production Co-ordinator

  Hannah Godwin – Production Co-ordinator

  Philip Lobban – Location Scout

  Russell Lodge – Location Manager

  Angus Moore Gordon – Production Manager                    

  Denise Hanrahan – Production Co-ordinator

  John Udall – Cost Accountant

  Charlie Hayes – Location Assistant

  Christian Holden – 1^st Assistant Accountant      

  Fraser Grant – Location Accountant

  Janine Modder – Production Supervisor

  Terry Bamber – Assistant Director

  Eduardo Rodrigalvarez – Production Assistant

  James Grant – Supervising Location Manager

   

  Life of Pi (Nominations Best Film, Director, Adapted Screenplay, original song, Original score, Cinematography, Editing, Production Design, Sound editing, sound mixing, Special Visual Effects)

   

  Brigitte Ward-Holmes – Construction Administrator

  David Jones – 1^st Assistant Accountant

   

   

  Frankenweenie (Nominations Animated Film)

   

  Simon Quinn – Line Producer

  Joan Schneider – Unit Production Manager

  Jeffrey Broom – Production Accountant

  Adam Hughes – Production Assistant

  James Broom – 1^st Assistant Accountant

  Serena Nutting – Production Assistant

  Andrew Bonner – Production Co-ordinator

   

   

  Zero Dark Thirty (Nominations Best Film, Original Screenplay, Leading Actress, Editing, sound editing)

   

  Jane Soans – Location Manager / Scout

  Philippa Naughten – Production Manager         

   

  Snow White and The Huntsman (Nominations Visual Effects, Costume Design)

   

  Sarah Bradshaw - Co-Producer / Unit Production Manager

  Michael Mann - Assistant Co-ordinator

  Valeria Bullo - Assistant Co-ordinator (2nd Unit)

  Helen Swanwick-Thorpe - Production Secretary

  Julian Murray - Construction Accountant

  Farnaz Donavan - Payroll Accountant

  Peter Eardley - Payroll Accountant

  Karen Birtchnell - Payroll Accountant

  Helen Seery - UK Accountant

  Lucy Howell - Assistant Accountant

  Beryl Brown - Assistant Accountant

  Karen Bicknell - Assistant Accountant

  Alyson Ripo - Accounts Assistant

  Bill Darby - Supervising Location Manager

  Georgette - Assistant Location Manager

  Philip Lobban - Location Scout

  Teresa Darby - Location Manager

  Ana Stichini - SFX Administrator (Dept Manager)

   

  The Hobbit (Nominations Makeup and Hairstyling, Production design, Visual effects)

   

  Fiona Harper - Production Runner (UK)

  Nik Korda – Unit Production Manager (UK Unit)

   

   

  Prometheus (Nominations Visual Effects)

   

  Nik Korda - Co-Producer / Unit Production Manager

  Mary Richards - Line Producer

  Hermione Ninnim - Production Manager

  James Smith - Production Manager (Additional Sequences & Promo Films)

  Sam Breckman - Production Manager (Iceland)

  Pippa Suren - Assistant Production Co-ordinator

  Aneta Chalas - Production Secretary

  Sarah Trowse - Production Accountant              

  Claire Mitchell - Construction Accountant

  Ciaran Moran - Payroll Accountant       

  Tanya Ruby - Payroll Accountant

  Ashifa Lalani - Location Accountant

  Rachel Welch - 1st Assistant Accountant

  Emma Brazier - Assistant Accountant

  Paul Zieleniec - Assistant Accountant (Prep)

  Matthew Bovington - Assistant Accountant

  Kay Di Rezze - Assistant Accountant

  Richard Slinn - Assistant Accountant    

  Cristiano D’Urso - Assistant Location Accountant

  Charlie Hayes - Assistant Location Manager (Skye Shoot)

  Hamish Ward - Construction Accounts Clerk

   

   

  The Pirates: Band of Misfits (Nominations Animated film)

   

  Paula Poveda-Urrutia – VFX Studio Co-ordinator

  We are delighted to offer a huge congratulations to over 90 PG members who have been represented within 10 Oscar nominated feature films:
  
  Les Miserables (Nominations Best picture, Lead Actor, Supporting Actress, Production Design, Costume Design, Make Up & Hair, Sound Mixing,
  
  Ann Ormesher Johnson – Assistant Accountant
  Bernie Belle – Line Producer
  Eve Swannell – Production Co-ordinator
  Vinnie Jassal – Location Scout
  Michele Tandy – Financial Controller
  Aneta Chalas – Production Secretary
  Clair Hanson – Assistant Accountant
  Oliver Mitchell – Assistant Accountant
  Brigitte Ward-Holmes – Construction Buyer
  
  Anna Karenina (Nominations Original Score, Cinematography, Production Design, Costume Design)
   
  Paul Murphy – 1st Assistant Accountant
  Clair Mitchell – Payroll Accountant
  Paula Chidgey – PG Accounts Trainee
  Jon Duncan – Financial Controller
  Alexandra Ferguson – Co-Producer
  Tim Wellspring – Unit Production Manager
  Martin Harrison – 1st Assistant Director
  Joe Downs – Assistant Accountant
  Christopher Stoaling – 2nd Assistant Director
  
  Skyfall (Nominations Original score, original song, Cinematography, Sound mixing, sound editing)
  
  Andrew Noakes – Co-Producer/Financial Controller
  Nazmeen Dhansey – Assistant Accountant
  Jeremy Johns – Unit Production Manager
  Alastair McNeil – Assistant Accountant
  Stephanie Bamberg – Production Co-ordinator
  Anthony Waye – Production Manager
  Callum McDougall – Executive Producer/UPM
  Mark Beaumont – Production Accountant
  Arabella Gilbert – Assistant Production Co-ordinator
  Hannah Godwin – Production Co-ordinator
  Philip Lobban – Location Scout
  Russell Lodge – Location Manager
  Angus Moore Gordon – Production Manager        
  Denise Hanrahan – Production Co-ordinator
  John Udall – Cost Accountant
  Charlie Hayes – Location Assistant
  Christian Holden – 1st Assistant Accountant    
  Fraser Grant – Location Accountant
  Janine Modder – Production Supervisor
  Terry Bamber – Assistant Director
  Eduardo Rodrigalvarez – Production Assistant
  James Grant – Supervising Location Manager
  
  Life of Pi (Nominations Best Film, Director, Adapted Screenplay, original song, Original score, Cinematography, Editing, Production Design, Sound editing, sound mixing, Special Visual Effects)
  
  Brigitte Ward-Holmes – Construction Administrator
  David Jones – 1st Assistant Accountant
  
  
  Frankenweenie (Nominations Animated Film)
  
  Simon Quinn – Line Producer
  Joan Schneider – Unit Production Manager
  Jeffrey Broom – Production Accountant
  Adam Hughes – Production Assistant
  James Broom – 1st Assistant Accountant
  Serena Nutting – Production Assistant
  Andrew Bonner – Production Co-ordinator
  
  
  Zero Dark Thirty (Nominations Best Film, Original Screenplay, Leading Actress, Editing, sound editing)
  
  Jane Soans – Location Manager / Scout
  Philippa Naughten – Production Manager     
  
  Snow White and The Huntsman (Nominations Visual Effects, Costume Design)
  
  Sarah Bradshaw - Co-Producer / Unit Production Manager
  Michael Mann - Assistant Co-ordinator
  Valeria Bullo - Assistant Co-ordinator (2nd Unit)
  Helen Swanwick-Thorpe - Production Secretary
  Julian Murray - Construction Accountant
  Farnaz Donavan - Payroll Accountant
  Peter Eardley - Payroll Accountant
  Karen Birtchnell - Payroll Accountant
  Helen Seery - UK Accountant
  Lucy Howell - Assistant Accountant
  Beryl Brown - Assistant Accountant
  Karen Bicknell - Assistant Accountant
  Alyson Ripo - Accounts Assistant
  Bill Darby - Supervising Location Manager
  Georgette - Assistant Location Manager
  Philip Lobban - Location Scout
  Teresa Darby - Location Manager
  Ana Stichini - SFX Administrator (Dept Manager)
  
  The Hobbit (Nominations Makeup and Hairstyling, Production design, Visual effects)
  
  Fiona Harper - Production Runner (UK)
  Nik Korda – Unit Production Manager (UK Unit)
  
  
  Prometheus (Nominations Visual Effects)
  
  Nik Korda - Co-Producer / Unit Production Manager
  Mary Richards - Line Producer
  Hermione Ninnim - Production Manager
  James Smith - Production Manager (Additional Sequences & Promo Films)
  Sam Breckman - Production Manager (Iceland)
  Pippa Suren - Assistant Production Co-ordinator
  Aneta Chalas - Production Secretary
  Sarah Trowse - Production Accountant   
  Claire Mitchell - Construction Accountant
  Ciaran Moran - Payroll Accountant   
  Tanya Ruby - Payroll Accountant
  Ashifa Lalani - Location Accountant
  Rachel Welch - 1st Assistant Accountant
  Emma Brazier - Assistant Accountant
  Paul Zieleniec - Assistant Accountant (Prep)
  Matthew Bovington - Assistant Accountant
  Kay Di Rezze - Assistant Accountant
  Richard Slinn - Assistant Accountant   
  Cristiano D’Urso - Assistant Location Accountant
  Charlie Hayes - Assistant Location Manager (Skye Shoot)
  Hamish Ward - Construction Accounts Clerk
  
  
  The Pirates: Band of Misfits (Nominations Animated film)
  
  Paula Poveda-Urrutia – VFX Studio Co-ordinator
  
  
  

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• 

  17 Jan 2013

  The Production Guild and movieScope Reach New Agreement

  The Production Guild of Great Britain is delighted to announce a two year agreement with movieScope, one of the film industry's leading print publications. The agreement aims to encourage a cross promotion and sharing of up to date and relevant information to the unique readership of both organisations, as well as bringing in new benefits to the over 700 Production Guild Members currently working in Feature Film and High End TV Drama.

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  As part of the new deal, PG Members will now be applicable for a complimentary two year subscription to movieScope, a 64-page, full-colour hardcopy magazine published 6 times per year, which aims to provide a fresh perspective on the collaborative nature of filmmaking (from writing to producing, directing and acting) by offering informative content, sourced from an insider's point of view.

  Each issue features contributions by key industry professionals and established professional journalists and filmmakers from Hollywood, UK/Europe, the Indie film scene and other global movie hotspots.

  Members who wish to take up the offer of the two year complimentary subscription to movieScope should e-mail PG@ProductionGuild.com.

  The Production Guild is also extremely happy to welcome movieScope as an affiliate member with immediate effect.

  Alison Small, CEO of The Production Guild commented, "movieScope is an exciting and innovative film magazine designed for film makers, I am delighted that The Production Guild will be working alongside movieScope in a number of different areas and pleased that members will benefit from the offer of 2 years complimentary subscription."

  Nikki Baughan, Editor of movieScope, said, "The movieScope team is thrilled to be teaming up with The Production Guild, whose illustrious members are at the very heart of the industry we are so passionate about. We look forward to collaborating with the Guild over the coming months, and to sharing the magazine with our fellow members." 

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  17 Jan 2013

  £2m Film and TV Production Slate Revealed by Screen Yorkshire

  Screen Yorkshire has added five major film and TV investments to its production slate with a total value of £2m investment from the Yorkshire Content Fund. The productions are Ecosse Films' VE-day feature Girls' Night Out; World Productions' two feature length dramas for BBC1 entitled The Great Train Robbery; Warp Films' feature '71; gritty West Yorkshire chase movie Catch Me Daddy from Emu Films; and A Miracle a UK-French-German-Turkish co-production.

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  This is one of the most significant production slates Screen Yorkshire has announced. It will attract millions of pounds of inward investment, create jobs and generate significant additional business for local companies, as well as putting the region on screens across the globe. The Yorkshire Content Fund recently invested in six-part BBC2 epic gangster drama Peaky Blinders which filmed in autumn 2012 and will invest £7.5m of European Regional Development Funding into growing TV, film, games and digital business across Yorkshire and Humber.

  Sally Joynson, Chief Executive of Screen Yorkshire, said: "These investments are the culmination of a fantastic first year for the Yorkshire Content Fund, which is attracting the very best in UK production and talent to the region. They will help create much needed jobs as well securing millions of pounds of production spend within the region, helping to grow Yorkshire's very important creative and digital sectors. '71 is one of the most anticipated features yet from Sheffield's prolific Warp Films, Ecosse's Girls' Night Out will have significant international appeal and World Productions continue to be one of the UK's leading drama producers. Along with our investment in BBC2's Peaky Blinders we are now building a very strong production slate across TV and film and we will also be announcing soon a number of new investment schemes to support Yorkshire's new creative talent. "

  '71 is a feature film and co-production between Sheffield-based Warp Films and Crab Apple Films with backing from Film4, BFI, Creative Scotland and Aver Media LP. Director is Yann Demange (Top Boy; Criminal Justice; Dead Set) and Producers are Angus Lamont (Stella does Tricks; Late Night Shopping; Donkey Punch) and Robin Gutch (Touching the Void; Hunger; Berberian Sound Studio). Protagonist Pictures are selling the film internationally and Studio Canal is distributing in the UK. '71 is written by playwright Gregory Burke (Black Watch) and casting is currently taking place. Development funding for the project was provided by Northern Ireland Screen. Set in Northern Ireland, '71 is an action chase thriller about a young soldier who has to survive the night on the dangerous streets of Belfast in the chaotic early years of the Troubles.

  Girls' Night Out is a feature film produced by Ecosse Films and directed by Michael Hoffman (The Last Station; A Midsummer's Night Dream; One Fine Day). Producers are Robert Bernstein and Douglas Rae and cast so far includes Juno Temple (Atonement; St Trinian's; Killer Joe; Dark Night Rises) and Alexandra Roach (The Iron Lady; Anna Karenina; Cuban Fury). HanWay Films is selling the film internationally and Lionsgate (UK) is distributing in the UK. When Princesses Elizabeth and Margaret join the crowds to celebrate VE day they have no idea of the adventures that await them, or how they will be changed by this most memorable of nights.

  The Great Train Robbery comprises two feature-length dramas for BBC1 to coincide with the 50th anniversary in August 2013. Produced by World Productions, the Directors are Julian Jarrold (The Girl, Appropriate Adult) and James Strong (United, The Best Possible Taste, Broadchurch) and the Writer is Chris Chibnall (United, Broadchurch). Reuniting the team behind World's acclaimed United is Producer Julia Stannard (The Awakening, Falcon) with Executive Producer Simon Heath (Line of Duty, The Fear). Content Media is selling the series internationally. 'The Robbers' Tale' tells the story of the gang whose audacious crime secured huge wealth and the wrath of the Establishment. 'The Coppers' Tale' recounts the story of Tommy Butler and the crack team of detectives he assembled in his relentless quest to bring the robbers to justice.

  A Miracle is produced by Har Films as a UK-French-German-Turkish co-production with Starfield Productions, Rhamsa Productions and Flying Moon. It is written and directed by Ben Hopkins (The Nine Lives of Tomas Katz; Simon Magus; Epic) and is produced by Paul Raphael (The Rachel Papers; Under the Bombs; Anita and Me; Rogue Trader) and Maya Hariri (Sous Les Bombes; Bachelor Days Are Over; When Pigs Have Wings). Wild Bunch will sell the film internationally. A Miracle is a comedy road-movie following the adventure of an unlikely pair that come together to collect a coffin containing a Georgian millionaire's dead aunt, leading them through unexpected adventures.

  Catch Me Daddy is produced by Emu Films with Daniel Wolfe directing his own screenplay. Producer is Mike Elliott and Director of Photography is Robbie Ryan (Wuthering Heights; Fish Tank; The Angels' Share). Catch Me Daddy is backed by the BFI and Film4, with Altitude selling the film internationally and Studio Canal distributing in the UK. Laila, a young asian girl on the run from her family, is hiding out in the badlands of West Yorkshire with her drifter boyfriend Aaron. When her brother arrives in town with a bunch of bounty hunters in tow she is forced to flee for her life and face her darkest night. 

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  14 Jan 2013

  Pinewood to Launch Centre of Excellence as Part of New Expansion Plans

  Pinewood Studios and Amersham & Wycombe College have today signed a Memorandum of Understanding to explore the creation of a centre of excellence at Pinewood Studios to develop and deliver qualifications for all elements of the screen based industries including film, television, animation and video games. The centre of excellence will be delivered in conjunction with the proposed expansion of Pinewood Studios known as the Pinewood Studios Development Framework.

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  Focusing on delivering a number of priorities outlined in the Next Gen report that was spearheaded by Ian Livingstone OBE, Alex Hope OBE and Nesta, the centre of excellence will concentrate on programmes that focus on Visual Effects (2D and 3D, FX, animation and rigging, pipeline and compositing), Video Games (applications development, design and production management, technology, games programming and graphical user interfaces) and High-performance/Large Scale Support Services and Infrastructure such as data warehousing and wrangling.

  The centre of excellence will also continue to develop programmes in areas that do not have a computer science foundation, but nevertheless are crucial for the industry, for example studio management, sound engineering and production.

  It is envisaged that most of the students on-site will be apprentices and that the majority of these students will be aged 16-24 years old. Pinewood and the College will be open to considering innovative delivery models, such as Apprenticeship Training Agencies (ATA's) so that talented students can easily be made available for project work to the tenant network based at Pinewood Studio, made up of around 200 independent media related businesses, to give students access to real, on the job training and access to industry professionals.

  Andrew Smith, Director of Strategy and Communication at Pinewood Studios said: "We are thrilled to be announcing these plans today to develop a centre of excellence for the screen based industries here at Pinewood. We hope it will help to provide the next generation of talent with the skills they need to turn their ideas into commercial success. By basing the centre at Pinewood it will allow students to work with and learn from industry colleagues who are at the top of their game, working on award winning and international productions on a daily basis. We are especially pleased that this announcement comes as the government introduces its new system of tax relief for high end TV, animation and video games."

  Gill Clipson, Principal and CEO of Amersham and Wycombe College said: "We are thrilled to be collaborating with Pinewood Studios on such an important and innovative project. We will be providing fantastic learning opportunities that allow young people to work with industry experts, become work ready and gain qualifications that have been designed for and by employers."

  Ian Livingstone OBE, Life President Eidos and Chair Next Gen Skills said: "I am passionate to see the UK nurture its digital creative industries and I'm delighted to see Pinewood Studios collaborating with educators to provide new routes of training for young people and help bring to fruition the priorities outlined in the Next Gen report."

  Alex Hope OBE, Managing Director Double Negative Ltd said: "It is fantastic to have Pinewood Studios look at ways to support the development of the next generation of talent in VFX and Animation." 

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  11 Jan 2013

  Panalux Appoints Kenny Smith as Managing Director of South African Operations

  Kenny Smith has been named as the new Managing Director of Panalux's South African operations. The company stated that Kenny is a long standing, highly regarded member of the Panalux senior management team and that his appointment is a natural progression following many years of dedicated service, loyalty and the undoubted ability he has demonstrated during his time with the company.

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  Steve Smith, Managing Director Panalux Worldwide commented, "I am delighted to announce Kenny's appointment and am certain that he will provide the kind of motivational management and direction that will ensure Panalux continues to deliver the very best in service, equipment and technology to our clients across Southern Africa".

  He continued, "During his many years with Panalux, Kenny has demonstrated excellent leadership and a genuine passion for our industry. These qualities, along with his depth of knowledge and enthusiasm will help maintain Panalux's position as market leader, pushing technological boundaries and service levels to even greater heights in the future".

  On accepting his promotion Kenny Smith stated, "I am extremely proud and excited to be given this opportunity. I have always taken great pride and satisfaction in the service and facilities we at Panalux provide. I know that with the support of the fantastic team I have around me we can progress to even greater levels of excellence in the future. I look forward to the challenges ahead and working with my colleagues throughout the industry to ensure South Africa continues to receive the recognition it deserves as a world class filming destination". 

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  11 Jan 2013

  BFI Launches £2.5m Support for Film Companies with Vision Awards 2013/15

  The BFI has pledged up to £2.5m of Lottery funding for the Vision Awards 2013 to 2015. To benefit production companies working across a range of experience and budget levels, the BFI will make up to 10 awards of up to £100,000 per year for two years and up to five further awards of up to £50,000 per year for two years. All funding committed through Vision Awards is for investment in development activity.

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  Designed to support UK production companies, the BFI's Vision Awards will empower film businesses with the creative and financial autonomy to build their development slates and bolster their company profile nationally and internationally. The awards will help to tackle the challenge faced by many in finding the financial resources necessary to maintain momentum on development activity across a full slate of projects. By encouraging and enabling producers to work with a diverse mix of emerging and established filmmakers from across the UK, the Vision Awards are central to the BFI's strategy for supporting UK film by nurturing new voices, fresh ideas and creative excellence.

  Ben Roberts, Director of the BFI Film Fund, comments: "Development is the lifeblood of the UK film industry, but it's risky and private money to support development is scarce. That's why the BFI's role as the UK's biggest investor in film development is so vital. The Vision Awards will be crucial in ensuring ambitious and talented UK producers have the freedom and resources they need to grow their businesses and develop high quality, creatively-driven projects to help sow the seeds of future success for UK film."

  To achieve success film production companies need to be able to deliver a steady stream of quality projects into the marketplace. Without the required resources to build an effective slate of projects – often a lengthy process involving a high degree of financial risk – companies struggle to maintain the volume of material required to grow into effective businesses.

  The Vision Awards will provide significant resources – up to £200k per company over two years – to enable film businesses to focus on slate development and exciting new projects that will serve their target audiences well. By providing work for UK writers, researchers, script editors and others, the BFI's Vision Awards will also contribute to job creation and skills development across the film industry value chain.

  To be eligible for a Vision Award, film companies must be experienced producers with a strong vision for the future growth of their company. The BFI is looking to support film businesses with a clear sense of identity and ambition, who are committed to nurturing diverse filmmaking talent from across the UK and playing their part in the creation of a sustainable and vibrant UK film culture.

  Applicants to the Vision Awards must have at least one production credit on a fiction, documentary or animation feature film that has been distributed theatrically in the UK and screened internationally in the last five years (previously producers were required to be credited on two features with UK theatrical releases). To help encourage the UK's animation sector to engage with and benefit from opportunities offered through the Vision Awards, animation studios should have produced at least two animated short films that have received a recognised industry award or had a UK television transmission.

  The Vision Awards are the latest initiative to roll out following the launch of Film Forever, the BFI's five year plan to support creative excellence and foster economic growth within the UK's film industry.

  Applications for the Vision Awards 2013-15 are now open from production companies with a viable plan for the development of their company. More information about how to apply and the Vision Award application guidelines are available here: www.bfi.org.uk/visionawards.

  The closing date for applications is 5pm on 22 February 2013. 

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  11 Jan 2013

  New Film Training Funds Launched by Creative Skillset

  Creative Skillset has announced three new funding opportunities which aim to support professionals and address identified needs within the UK film and visual effects (VFX) industries. Two funds have been made available to support the VFX industry, and a further one to support the development of Wardrobe Supervisors.

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  Up to £52,000 is available for an experienced organisation or freelancer to develop National Occupational Standards (NOS) and qualifications in VFX, and up to £50,000 is available for an organisation to develop a library of VFX careers information.
  These two funds, made possible through the Film Skills Fund as part of A Bigger Future 2, will provide valuable support for training organisations, careers advisers and anyone wanting to work in the VFX industry. They have been developed in response to the publication of the Next Gen review by Ian Livingstone and Alex Hope, commissioned by Government following concerns the UK could lose its cutting edge in a competitive global market.

  In addition to the two VFX funds, organisations can now apply for up to £30,000 from the Skillset Craft and Technical Skills Academy to deliver Wardrobe Supervisor training to those working in costume and wardrobe. With an expected increase in production levels in 2013/14, the scheme aims to ensure that the UK will be able to service domestic and incoming productions with highly skilled Wardrobe Supervisors, an area which was identified by the industry as needing support.

  The deadline for applications for all three funds is 12pm on 6 February 2013.

  Decisions will be announced on 4 March 2013. Further information and application forms can be found here on the Creative Skillset website. 

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  11 Jan 2013

  'Audience on Demand' Training Programme Launched by Film London and Creative England

  Film London, in partnership with Creative England supported by Creative Skillset, launches its pilot training programme Audience on Demand. Addressing the rapidly changing face of feature film distribution across the globe, the three month programme (March to June 2013) is aimed at first and second time feature film-makers from across the UK with either a feature with production finance in place (up to 50%) or near completion (picture lock).

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  Audience on Demand aims to provide participants with the skills, knowledge and networks to face the challenge of selling their film in the marketplace, sourcing and maximising audiences while at the same time negotiating the impact of new digital technologies on the traditional routes of Distribution and Marketing.
  
  The program consists of three two-day workshops (two in London, one in Creative England's region) and a final pitch day. Between workshops sessions, participants will benefit from dedicated mentor support, assisting them in producing a tailored distribution and marketing plan for their projects. The Audience on Demand programme aims to help participants to discover the optimum way of reaching an audience for their films, be it theatrical, festival or digital distribution.

  Workshop sessions will include the following key areas:

   • The traditional sales and distribution model - the value chain and how it's changing
   • Revealing audience trends, profiles and behaviours
   • Online DIY marketing and distribution
   • Event releasing
   • Exhibition and the festival circuits
   • Online digital distribution
   • Online platforms and how they work
   • Typical deals and how to negotiate
   • Rentals / recoupment

  Participants will also get the chance to network with distributors, sales agents and digital agencies. Unique and proactive in its approach, Audience on Demand offers practical and real solutions for film-makers challenged by the complexities of finding audiences for their films.

  Targeting low to micro-budget films, teams will find out where their project fits within the market place. The course will explore how to utilise social networking and digital technologies to profile projects and build audiences, as well as having a strong awareness of the business side of the film value chain.

  For more information on the scheme and how to apply, please visit filmlondon.org.uk/aod. The deadline for applications is 5pm, 13th February 2013.

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  10 Jan 2013

  Over 60 Production Guild Members Represented within BAFTA Nominated Films

  The Production Guild is delighted that so many of our members have worked on films that have been nominated for the 2013 BAFTAs. The members come from a wide range or professions and departments including Production, Location Management, Assistant Directors and Accounts. A huge congratulations to all of them from all of us:

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  Anna Karenina

  Nominated for Outstanding British Film, Original Music, Cinematography, Production Design, Costume Design, Make Up & Hair, and Sound

   • Alexandra Ferguson – Co-Producer
   • Tim Wellspring – Unit Production Manager
   • Christopher Stoaling – 2nd Assistant Director
   • Jon Duncan – Financial Controller
   • Paul Murphy – 1st Assistant Accountant
   • Tony Flint – Assistant Accountant
   • Claire Mitchell – Payroll Accountant
   • Paula Chidgey – PG Accounts Trainee

  The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel

  Nominated for Outstanding British Film

   • Caroline Hewitt – Co-Producer
   • Tori Parry – Production Manager (London Shoot)
   • Polly Jefferies – Production Co-ordinator
   • Denise Hanrahan – Production Co-ordinator (Reshoots)
   • Georgette Turner – Unit Manager
   • Craig Barwick – Production Accountant
   • John Udall – Assistant Accountant
   • Jacky Holding – Assistant Accountant

  Frankenweenie

  Nominated for Animated Film

   • Simon Quinn – Line Producer
   • Joan Schneider – Unit Production Manager
   • Andrew Bonner – Production Co-ordinator
   • Adam Hughes – Production Assistant
   • Serena Nutting – Production Assistant
   • Jeffrey Broom – Production Accountant
   • James Broom – 1st Assistant Accountant

  Les Miserables

  Nominated for Best Film, Outstanding British Film, Lead Actor, Supporting Actress, Cinematography, Production Design, Costume Design, Make Up & Hair, and Sound

   • Bernie Bellew – Line Producer
   • Eve Swannell – Production Co-ordinator
   • Aneta Chalas – Production Secretary
   • Brigitte Ward-Holmes – Construction Buyer
   • Michele Tandy – Financial Controller
   • James Richardson – Production and Post Production Accountant
   • Clair Hanson – Assistant Accountant
   • Oliver Mitchell – Assistant Accountant
   • Ann Ormesher Johnson – Assistant Accountant
   • Vinnie Jassal – Location Scout

  Life of Pi

  Nominated for Best Film, Director, Adapted Screenplay, Original Music, Cinematography, Editing, Production Design, Sound, Special Visual Effects

   • David Jones – 1st Assistant Accountant
   • Brigitte Ward-Holmes – Construction Administrator

  Marley

  Nominated for Best Documentary

   • Kevin McSweeney – Additional Accountancy

  Skyfall

  Nominated for Outstanding British Film, Supporting Actor, Supporting Actress, Original Music, Cinematography, Editing, Production Design, Sound

   • Andrew Noakes – Co-Producer/Financial Controller
   • Callum McDougall – Executive Producer / UPM
   • Jeremy Johns – Unit Production Manager
   • Anthony Waye – Production Manager
   • Angus Moore Gordon – Production Manager
   • Janine Modder – Production Supervisor
   • Terry Bamber - Assistant Director (Splinter Unit)
   • Hannah Godwin – Production Co-ordinator
   • Stephanie Bamberg – Production Co-ordinator (2nd Unit)
   • Denise Hanrahan – Production Co-ordinator (Fethiye Shoot only)
   • Arabella Gilbert – Assistant Production Co-ordinator
   • Eduardo Rodrigalvarez – Production Assistant
   • Terry Bamber – Assistant Director
   • Mark Beaumont – Production Accountant (Turkey)
   • John Udall – Cost Accountant
   • Fraser Grant – Location Accountant
   • Christian Holden – Key 1st Assistant Accountant
   • Nazmeen Dhansey – Assistant Accountant
   • Alastair McNeil – Assistant Accountant (Costing Assistant)
   • James Grant – Supervising Location Manager
   • Russell Lodge – Location Manager
   • Charlie Hayes – Unit Location Assistant (Turkey)
   • Philip Lobban – Location Scout

  Zero Dark Thirty

  Nominated for Best Film, Director, Original Screenplay, Leading Actress, Editing

   • Philippa Naughten – Production Manager (Jordan and UK)
   • Jane Soans – Location Manager / Scout 

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• 

  20 Dec 2012

  Creative Skillset Craft & Technical Academy Now Recruiting Film Trainees

  With the success of the first round of trainees securing a range of exciting and impressive jobs, the Film Craft and Technical Trainee Placement Scheme is now accepting applications for 2013. The Overview of Film Production unit for previous academy trainees has been delivered by The Production Guild at Pinewood Studios.

  Show more

  The Scheme places trainees in paid work on UK productions and is open to those with a commitment and passion to working behind-the-scenes in Production Sound, Editing, Hair & Make-up, Camera, Costume & Wardrobe, the Art Department and Script Supervisors.
  
  Deadline for applications is 9th January 2013 at 5pm. Successful applicants will be invited to interview with a film industry panel at Pinewood Studios at the beginning of February 2013.

  You can find out more on the Trainee Placement Scheme website or you can email the team at info@craftandtech.org.

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  20 Dec 2012

  BBC Drama Production Reveals New Pan-UK Structure and Management

  BBC Drama Production has announced restructure to put responsibility for the overall drama strategy into the hands of the current drama editorial leaders, while bringing all drama production in England together under one head. Kate Harwood is to take on the new role of Head of Drama, England for BBC Production from 21st December.

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  This newly created position will have overall responsibility for all in-house drama series and serials production in London and Salford and the Continuing Drama series EastEnders, Holby City and Doctors, as well as Casualty, which is made in Wales.

  Kate will work alongside the two drama heads in Scotland (Christopher Aird) and Wales (Faith Penhale). Each of the nation editorial heads will manage editorial and day-to-day issues in their nations and lead on development and strategy. All operational and pan-UK production issues will be co-ordinated by the UK Drama board chaired by recently appointed Controller of Business, Drama, Nick Betts.

  Kate Harwood will report directly to BBC Production Chief Creative Officer, Pat Younge, whilst Faith Penhale and Christopher Aird will report jointly to Younge and the Heads of Productions and Programmes in Wales and Scotland respectively.

  Kate Harwood says: "This is an exciting new era for BBC Drama Production with a team of Drama Editorial Heads leading Pan UK Production across England, Scotland and Wales. I am also delighted to be taking over from John Yorke in heading up Continuing Drama as I have so many happy memories of my time running EastEnders and I look forward to leading In-House Drama in England into what looks like being a thrilling although challenging future."

  Pat Younge, Chief Creative Officer says: "Losing Nick Brown and John Yorke was a massive loss, but its given us a chance to review our structure and we've decided to devolve more creative accountability to Faith and Chris and expand Kate's portfolio. Each is an outstanding creative in their own right, and as a team they are unstoppable."

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  20 Dec 2012

  Strong End to the Year for 3 Mills with BIFAs Winners and Christmas Shows

  Berberian Sound Studio, made at PG Affiliate, 3 Mills Studios, led this year's BIFAs, scooping the awards for best director (Peter Strickland), best actor (Toby Jones), best technical achievement (sound designers Joakim Sundstrom and Stevie Haywood) and best achievement in production. In addition, the BBC's first-ever 3D drama production of David Walliams' best-selling book, Mr. Stink has just wrapped at 3 Mills in time for its Christmas week showing.

  Show more

  3 Mills Studios also sponsored the Douglas Hickox Award (Best Debut Director) won by Bart Layton for The Imposter.  A long-term supporter of independent British filmmakers, 3 Mills hosted an event last month for filmmaker BIFA nominees up for the director, short film, production, technical achievement and Raindance awards. 
  
  The two-week shoot for Mr Stink occupied three of the larger sound stages.  Its 3D version will be seen on the BBC HD Channel and SD version will be broadcast on BBC One.  Hugh Bonneville stars in the title role of Mr. Stink alongside Johnny Vegas and Sheridan Smith.   Walliams, plays the role of the Prime Minister.
  
  Robbie Williams joined the superstar ranks of Coldplay and the Spice Girls who have shot or rehearsed at 3 Mills.  The UK’s best selling artist shot the video ahead of his sold-out end of year tour.
  
  Also in time for the festive season, Matthew Bourne’s production of Sleeping Beauty rehearsed at 3 Mills Studios. The AEG Live production of Jesus Christ Superstar which found its Jesus through the ITV show Superstar, and starred Tim Minchin used 3 Mills Studios to rehearse before its current UK arena tour.
  
  Two independent feature films have also just wrapped at 3 Mills.  Darwood Grace and Femi Oyeniran’s It’s a Lot has just completed principal photography at the Studios.  Destiny Ekaragha’s feature debut, Gone Too Far produced by Production Guild Member, Christopher Granier-Deferre has also just been resident at the Studios.

  3 Mills celebrates BIFAs winners and Christmas shows

   

  Berberian Sound Studio, made at 3 Mills Studios, led this year’s BIFAs, scooping the awards for best director (Peter Strickland), best actor (Toby Jones), best technical achievement (sound designers Joakim Sundstrom and Stevie Haywood) and best achievement in production.  In addition, the BBC’s first-ever 3D drama production of David Walliams’ best-selling book, Mr. Stink has just wrapped at 3 Mills in time for its Christmas week showing.

   

  3 Mills Studios also sponsored the Douglas Hickox Award (Best Debut Director) won by Bart Layton for The Imposter.  A long-term supporter of independent British filmmakers, 3 Mills hosted an event last month for filmmaker BIFA nominees up for the director, short film, production, technical achievement and Raindance awards. 

   

  The two-week shoot for Mr Stink occupied three of the larger sound stages.  Its 3D version will be seen on the BBC HD Channel and SD version will be broadcast on BBC One.  Hugh Bonneville stars in the title role of Mr. Stink alongside Johnny Vegas and Sheridan Smith.   Walliams, plays the role of the Prime Minister.

   

  Robbie Williams joined the superstar ranks of Coldplay and the Spice Girls who have shot or rehearsed at 3 Mills.  The UK’s best selling artist shot the video ahead of his sold-out end of year tour.

   

  Also in time for the festive season, Matthew Bourne’s production of Sleeping Beauty rehearsed at 3 Mills Studios. The AEG Live production of Jesus Christ Superstar which found its Jesus through the ITV show Superstar, and starred Tim Minchin used 3 Mills Studios to rehearse before its current UK arena tour.

   

  Two independent feature films have also just wrapped at 3 Mills.   Darwood Grace and Femi Oyeniran’s It’s a Lot has just completed principal photography at the Studios.  Destiny Ekaragha’s feature debut, Gone Too Far produced by Christopher Granier-Deferre has also just been resident at the Studios.

  3 Mills celebrates BIFAs winners and Christmas shows

   

  Berberian Sound Studio, made at 3 Mills Studios, led this year’s BIFAs, scooping the awards for best director (Peter Strickland), best actor (Toby Jones), best technical achievement (sound designers Joakim Sundstrom and Stevie Haywood) and best achievement in production.  In addition, the BBC’s first-ever 3D drama production of David Walliams’ best-selling book, Mr. Stink has just wrapped at 3 Mills in time for its Christmas week showing.

   

  3 Mills Studios also sponsored the Douglas Hickox Award (Best Debut Director) won by Bart Layton for The Imposter.  A long-term supporter of independent British filmmakers, 3 Mills hosted an event last month for filmmaker BIFA nominees up for the director, short film, production, technical achievement and Raindance awards. 

   

  The two-week shoot for Mr Stink occupied three of the larger sound stages.  Its 3D version will be seen on the BBC HD Channel and SD version will be broadcast on BBC One.  Hugh Bonneville stars in the title role of Mr. Stink alongside Johnny Vegas and Sheridan Smith.   Walliams, plays the role of the Prime Minister.

   

  Robbie Williams joined the superstar ranks of Coldplay and the Spice Girls who have shot or rehearsed at 3 Mills.  The UK’s best selling artist shot the video ahead of his sold-out end of year tour.

   

  Also in time for the festive season, Matthew Bourne’s production of Sleeping Beauty rehearsed at 3 Mills Studios. The AEG Live production of Jesus Christ Superstar which found its Jesus through the ITV show Superstar, and starred Tim Minchin used 3 Mills Studios to rehearse before its current UK arena tour.

   

  Two independent feature films have also just wrapped at 3 Mills.   Darwood Grace and Femi Oyeniran’s It’s a Lot has just completed principal photography at the Studios.  Destiny Ekaragha’s feature debut, Gone Too Far produced by Christopher Granier-Deferre has also just been resident at the Studios.

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• 

  20 Dec 2012

  Applications Open for LOCO's Kickstart Your Comedy Career Course

  LOCO's mission is to kickstart the next generation of British-based comedy film-makers. The popular Kickstart Your Comedy Career course returns on 24th and 25th January 2013 with support from Creative Skillset, and this year the focus is on collaboration in comedy and the professional skills that film-makers need to build a long-term comedy career. The deadline for applications is Thursday 27 December 2012.

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  Kickstart Your Comedy Career is designed for new or emerging writers, directors and producers who want a career in comedy film or TV.

  The course is aimed at both those already working in film and TV who want to move further into comedy as well as those just starting out in TV and film. It will provide the opportunity to meet the people working in comedy, learn about how best to work the industry, how to get your ideas made and seen, and possibly even forge new creative partnerships with other participants on the course.

  The course could also prove useful for actors, performers, editors, production designers, camera, sound designers and anyone else interested in learning about comedy film and TV.

  'This is an invaluable experience for emerging comedy talent to access top level training and expertise within London's Comedy Film Festival. It is a unique opportunity for them to celebrate and hone their craft, enhance their business skills and learn from the best.' Dan Simmons, Head of Film at Creative Skillset.

  Speakers last year included Shane Allen (then head of comedy, Channel 4, and now BBC's controller, comedy commissioning), Lucy Lumsden (head of comedy, Sky), Simon London (creative head of comedy, BBC), Ben Wheatley, Alice Lowe, Emma Frost, Ben Blaine. Speakers for the course in January 2013 will be announced shortly and made up of directors, writers, producers, commissioners, development execs, agents and funders.

  The course will include panel sessions, intense workshops, one-to-one mentoring as well as networking opportunities.

  When and where?

  24 – 25 January 2013 in the Blue Room at the BFI Southbank. Each day will be 9am – 6pm, plus evening networking drinks.

  How much?

  £150 for both days.

  Delegates may also be eligible for bursaries (see below).

  Participants will also be able to take advantage of an exclusive discount on course fees if they book tickets for LOCO London's Working Women event (tickets due to be on sale soon), which is part of LOCO Training taking place during the festival this year.

  How to apply

  Deadline for applications is Thursday 27 December 2012.

  LOCO London is inviting people to apply for Kickstart Your Comedy Career through our online submission form. This is so that they can guarantee that participants on the course are the most talented and dedicated comedy writers, directors and producers who are at the stage in their career where this course will really benefit from the training.

  Click here to apply to LOCO London Kickstart Your Comedy Career 2013.

  Help with costs

  LOCO is proud to be supported by the Creative Skillset Film Skills Fund, which enables them to deliver year-round career development for emerging filmmakers in the UK, as well as enabling them to provide bursaries to help with course fees.

  A limited number of bursaries are available to participants who would not be able to attend the course without extra financial support. The maximum bursary they can award per person is up to £200, which can be made up from the following:

   • Course Fees – £70;

   • Travel – up to £50, to be reimbursed after the course upon production of valid receipts. Only available if you live 50 miles or more from the venue;

   • Accommodation – up to £100, to be reimbursed after the course upon production of valid receipts. Only available if you live 50 miles or more from the venue;

   • Childcare subsidies – up to £80 upon production of valid receipts.

  LOCO are asking people to apply for the course first, and if you are successful in gaining a place, they will send you details about how to apply for a bursary.

  Key dates

  27 Dec 2012: Application Deadline
  4 Jan 2013: Applicants informed whether they have a place on the course
  9 Jan: Deadline for bursary applications
  11 Jan: Deadline for course fees payment (non-bursary)
  14 Jan: Bursary applicants informed whether they will be receiving bursaries
  18 Jan: Deadline for course fees payment (bursary recipients)
  24-25 Jan: Kickstart Your Comedy Career!
  26 Jan: Working Women

  Further info

  If you have any questions about Kickstart Your Comedy Career, please get in touch with Harriet Fleuriot, Industry Training Producer at harriet@locofilmfestival.com.

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  20 Dec 2012

  Final Draft TV Writers Summit Coming to London with 20% Member Discount

  Over two days, four respected teachers on TV writing, producing and pitching will take delegates through the entire spectrum of how to develop, write, structure, produce, pitch and get their TV show on the air. Final Draft has kindly offered Production Guild Members a 20% discount to attend the TV Writers Summit. Members can find full details on how to access the discount within the Member Offers page.

  Show more

  The four speakers will each teach half-day classes followed by a half-hour Q&A session in which delegates will be able to follow-up with questions. The speakers having taken the time and care to share their outlines with each other to make sure they provide attendees with the best, most engaging material possible without overlap.
  
  The TV Writers' Summit is particularly aimed at:
  
  • TV Writers
  • TV Producers
  • Development Executives
  • Screenwriters
  • Creative Executives
  • Actors
  • Producers

  The event will be taking place at University of Westminster on January 26-27, 2013 (Saturday & Sunday).

  Course outlines for all four speakers can be viewed here.
  
  The four speakers will be:
  
  Ellen Sandler has created original television pilots for the likes of ABC, NBC, CBS, Fox, Disney and Oxygen, and served as an Executive Producer on the CBS hit series Everybody Loves Raymond. Internationally, she has consulted on series development for The ABC in Sydney, Australia, The Australian Children's Television Foundation in Melbourne, Australia, the CBC in Canada, and for producers in England, Germany, Dubai, UAE, Egypt and Japan. Most recently she ran a two-week training intensive for 40 South East Asian writers sponsored by MediaCorp, Singapore's major producer of television content. Ellen is the author of The TV Writer's Workbook (Bantam/Dell), which is used as a main textbook by both UCLA and USC film schools.
  
  Jen Grisanti spent the first 12 years of her career at Spelling Entertainment where she climbed the ranks and became the youngest VP of Current Programs at Spelling Television Inc., covering such shows as Beverly Hills, 90210, Melrose Place and Charmed. In 2004, she moved to CBS/Paramount as Vice President of Current Programs where she covered shows including Medium, Numbers, NCIS, 4400 and Girlfriends. While at CBS, Jen worked with the executive producers, showrunners and staff of over 15 primetime hit shows. Today, Jen is one of the most respected speakers, lecturers and consultants to TV's top writers, producers and directors, and recently released her bestselling book Storyline: Finding Gold In Your Life Story.
  
  Troy DeVolld is a successful writer and producer in the reality television genre. He began his career with MTV's Fear and The Osbournes, and has gone on to write and/or produce the major reality hits Dancing With the Stars, The Bachelor, The Surreal Life, Flipping Out, Black Gold and more. He was also nominated for an Emmy Award for his work on Style Network's Split Ends. Troy recently released his bestselling book Reality TV, and travels the world teaching as his schedule permits. As the preeminent teacher of the reality genre, Troy enjoys debunking the notion that reality shows are truly "unscripted" and tries to arm interested students with the tools needed to break into the ever-expanding genre.
  
  Chad Gervich is a television producer, bestselling author, and award-winning playwright who currently writes and produces two shows on major networks. As a writer and producer, Chad has written, produced, and developed shows (both scripted and reality) for ABC, FOX, Warner Brothers, Endemol, Overbrook, SuperDelicious, CBS Studios, TruTV, Fox Reality Channel, Food Network, and the Weinstein Company. He recently completed a sitcom development deal with Twentieth Century Fox. Prior to producing, Chad spent five years as a development executive with the Littlefield Company, former NBC president Warren Littlefield's production company, developing pilots and series for NBC, ABC, FOX, UPN, the WB, and Paramount.
  
  For full details and to book a place, please visit the TV Writers Summit website at
  http://www.tvwriterssummit.com. PG Members can access the 20% discount code from the Member Offers page.

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  20 Dec 2012

  Creative Skillset Board and Film Skills Council Announce New Appointments

  Xavier Marchand, President of Momentum Pictures, has joined Creative Skillset's Film Skills Council as its Co-Chair alongside leading producer and Production Guild Board Member, Iain Smith. Alex Hope, Managing Director of Double Negative and Stephen Garrett, Chairman of Kudos and Executive Chairman of Shine Pictures, have also joined the Board of Creative Skillset.

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  Xavier Marchand has spent the last 23 years in the film industry, based in London. In 2004 he joined Alliance Films, as Managing Director of its UK division, Momentum Pictures, one of the UK’s leading independent film distributors, and added the position of MD of Aurum, the leading Spanish independent film distributor, when it was acquired by the group in May 2004.

  In October BFI launched Film Forever, its new five year plan for film, with skills development highlighted as a critical component in the future success of the UK film industry. Creative Skillset was identified as the BFI's key strategic partner for skills and will receive £21 million of investment to support the UK film industry's skills and talent drive. The funding comprises £4 million per year of investment to deliver a new four year film skills strategy building upon the work to date, and a new commitment of £5 million over four years to provide capital investment in the UK's film schools.

  Iain Smith, Chair of Creative Skillset’s Film Skills Council said: “We are delighted to welcome Xavier to the Film Skills Council. His career spans almost all aspects of film finance, production, sales, marketing and distribution, so he will bring a massive amount of experience to the Council.  We will be launching our new film skills strategy in April, so Xavier’s input will be invaluable in helping us to shape this.”

  Xavier Marchand said: “I am absolutely delighted to join the Film Skills Council.  This is a time of real growth and change within the industry. I am looking forward to working with Iain and the Council to ensure new investment in skills achieves the maximum impact and to help identify future opportunities to further grow this important sector.”

  Stewart Till CBE, Chair of Creative Skillset and CEO of Sonar Entertainment said: “Xavier will be a huge asset to the Film Skills Council and I am thrilled that he has agreed to become Co-Chair. Our work in film has been ground-breaking but we have much more still to do.”

  Amanda Nevill, CEO of the BFI said: “Xavier has a love of film running through his DNA and I can’t think of anyone better to help safeguard and champion the future strength of the industry. As we work with Creative Skillset to deliver the BFI’s Film Forever I feel confident that we are in very safe hands.”

  Creative Skillset's Film Skills Council comprises senior film industry figures from across the value chain. The Council sets the direction of Creative Skillset’s film skills strategy, ‘A Bigger Future 2’.

  It was also announced this week that Alex Hope and Stephen Garrett also joined the Creative Skillset Board.

  Alex Hope OBE is MD and co-founder of Double Negative, Europe's largest full service Film VFX facility. He is the co-author of the ground-breaking Next Gen Report into skills within the computer games and visual effects industries, commissioned by Government following concerns the UK could lose its cutting edge in a competitive global market.

  Stephen Garrett's passion for shepherding new and exciting talent started at Channel 4, where he was commissioning editor for youth programmes (from 1987 to 1992). He then co-founded Kudos and built it into one of Britain's most respected independent production companies. He remains Chairman of Kudos and is Executive Chairman of Shine Pictures, the group's movie-making division.

  Stewart Till CBE, Chair of Creative Skillset and CEO of Sonar Entertainment said: "We are delighted to welcome these two incredibly experienced and influential people to the Board. They will bring a wealth of additional insight to help develop the skills for the future and help shape the direction of our work in what is to be an exciting and pivotal year ahead."

  Alex Hope said: "The Creative Industries are developing at such a pace, particularly within the visual effects and computer games sectors. It is vital that skills and training keep up with this evolution. I am delighted to join this prestigious Board at a time when Government is investing in training."

  Stephen Garrett said: "I'm both delighted and honoured to be joining such an extraordinary Board and look forward to working with Creative Skillset to help address the significant skills issues that face our industries both now and in the future." 

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  20 Dec 2012

  Creative England Crew Night at Pinewood Studios

  Join Creative England for their first crew night of 2013 at Pinewood Studios on 21st January. Following a successful year in 2012 when over 1600 people attended 10 networking evenings across the country, Creative England is rolling out its crew night programme further in 2013. Come and meet Creative England's Location and Production Services team at the Ballroom at Pinewood Studios on Monday 21st January between 6-8pm.

  Show more

  You can find out more about how Creative England's production liaison service can help you find locations, crew & opportunities in the English regions. Find out more, too, about the national crew and facilities and locations databases.

  The crew nights are open to producers, production companies, facility houses and crew across the film, TV and digital sectors, and are sponsored by Brookson accountants and Towergate Professional Indemnity.

  To book your place go to http://crewnightpinewood.eventbrite.com.

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  11 Dec 2012

  British Independent Film Award Winners Announced

  The 15th Moët British Independent Film Awards took place on Sunday 9th December at Old Billingsgate, hosted by actor James Nesbitt.

  Several productions that Production Guild members worked on were winners including;

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      •    'Broken', which won Best British Independent Film, was Line Produced by PG Member Wendy Bevan-Mogg and the Production Accountant was Freya Pinsent,
  
      •    'Sightseers' won Best Screenplay which had PG Member Matthew Justice as Executive Producer.
  
      •    'Berberian Sound Studio' picked up four trophies whose Post Production Supervisor was PG Member Gisela Evert.
  
      •    Andrea Riseborough won Best Actress for 'Shadow Dancer' on which PG Member Jane Soans was Location Manger.
  
      •    Olivia Colman won Supporting Actress for 'Hyde Park On Hudson' which boasts the talents of PG Members Rosa Romero (Line Producer), Maxine Davis (Production Accountant), Marie Dong (1st Assistant Accountant), Lara Sargent (Post Production Accountant), John-Michael Steele (Cashier) & Anna Hinds (Assets Manager).
  
  Sir Michael Gambon was awarded the Richard Harris Award for outstanding contribution by an actor to British film and Jude Law the Variety Award, which recognises an actor, director, writer or producer who has helped to focus the international spotlight on the UK. The Special Jury Prize went to Sandra Hebron.
  
  Elliot Grove, founder of Raindance Film Festival and BIFA added: “This year’s BIFA nominations demonstrate that British filmmakers are now an international force to be reckoned with.”
  
  THE WINNERS:
  
  BEST BRITISH INDEPENDENT FILM
  Winner: Broken
  
  BEST DIRECTOR
  Winner: Peter Strickland – Berberian Sound Studio
  
  THE DOUGLAS HICKOX AWARD [BEST DEBUT DIRECTOR]
  Winner: Bart Layton – The Imposter
  
  BEST SCREENPLAY
  Winner: Alice Lowe, Steve Oram, Amy Jump – Sightseers
  
  BEST ACTRESS
  Winner: Andrea Riseborough (Colette McVeigh) – Shadow Dancer
  
  BEST ACTOR
  Winner: Toby Jones (Gilderoy) – Berberian Sound Studio
  
  BEST SUPPORTING ACTRESS
  Winner: Olivia Colman (Queen Elizabeth) – Hyde Park on Hudson
  
  BEST SUPPORTING ACTOR
  Winner: Rory Kinnear (Bob Oswald) – Broken
   
  MOST PROMISING NEWCOMER
  Winner: James Floyd (Rashid) – My Brother the Devil
   
  BEST ACHIEVEMENT IN PRODUCTION
  Winner: Berberian Sound Studio
   
  BEST TECHNICAL ACHIEVEMENT
  Winner: Joakim Sundström, Stevie Haywood AMPS IPS– Sound Design – Berberian Sound Studio
  
  BEST DOCUMENTARY
  Winner: The Imposter
  
  BEST BRITISH SHORT
  Winner: Volume
  
  BEST INTERNATIONAL INDEPENDENT FILM
  Winner: The Hunt
  
  THE RAINDANCE AWARD
  Winner: Strings
  
  THE RICHARD HARRIS AWARD (for outstanding contribution by an actor to British Film)
  Sir Michael Gambon
  
  THE VARIETY AWARD
  Jude Law
   
  THE SPECIAL JURY PRIZE
  Sandra Hebron

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  07 Dec 2012

  Jill Tandy Joins Universal Pictures International

  Universal Pictures International (UPI) has appointed Jill Tandy as executive vice president, commercial affairs, within a newly created role. The hiring was announced by David Kosse, President, International, Universal Pictures.  Based in London, Tandy will begin in February 2013.
  

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  Tandy will oversee the creative production team, focusing on local language projects including productions from France, Germany and Spain.

  Reporting to David Kosse she will also work closely with LA based, Peter Kujawski, VP of worldwide acquisitions.

  Tandy was co-owner and co-managing director of Qwerty Films between 1999 and 2007. She also worked as a consultant to the industry, setting up her own independent business in 2007, which provided services to a number of international film and TV organisations including NBCUniversal, Working Title Films, BFI, NFTS and the UK Film Council.  She was part of the founding managment team of Polygram and managed its international public, business and legal affairs between 1989 and 1999.

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  07 Dec 2012

  Cineworld Acquires Picturehouse Cinema Group

  Cineworld Group has purchased Picturehouse Cinemas from Arts Alliance for £47.3m.  The all-cash deal includes Picturehouse's distribution arm, Picturehouse Entertainment as well as the sale of all 21 Picturehouse sites within the UK, adding to the 80 cinemas that the Cineworld Group currently own. The group also now plans to add 10 further Picturehouse sites to the UK.

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  Picturehouse has since confirmed that it will not be releasing any current staff nor will it be changing its programming.  Picturehouse cinemas are programmed in response to its local audience with most venues showing a mix of mainstream blockbusters alongside a wide range of lower budget features, foreign films and classics.

  Lyn Goleby, Managing Director – Picturehouse, said:

  "The Picturehouse cinemas, and all that we stand for, will remain as before and will operate as a standalone division of Cineworld. Everyone recognises that the success of this change depends on the unique nature of the Picturehouse Cinemas being protected; the programming policy will not change, the membership schemes will remain in place and the independent identity of the cinemas will be protected."

  Thomas Høegh, founder of Arts Alliance and a director of Picturehouse, said:

  "Over the last 10 years Lyn Goleby and her team have been at the forefront of developing a customer centric quality cinema experience, and successfully brought the unique Picturehouse proposition to an ever increasing number of passionate audiences. In Cineworld, Arts Alliance could not have found a better partner for Picturehouse to scale the circuit to many more." 

  Sales at Picturehouse were at £30.3m last year with a reported a pre-tax profit of £2.5m and gross assests of £35m.

  Cineworld has funded the purchase of Picturehouse Cinemas through debt and aims to bring in £16m through the placing of new shares.
  

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  07 Dec 2012

  BAFTA Launch New Professional Network and Masterclasses for English Regions

  BAFTA Crew is a new professional network and masterclass programme in the English regions, delivered by BAFTA in partnership with Skillset Craft and Technical Skills Academy and Creative England. It is now open for applications until February 18th 2013 and will creating a year-long networking and skills development programme for up to 300 'below the line' film and TV professionals.

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  The programme will run from March – November 2013 and is open to all below the line professionals who live outside of central London and who have at least 2 feature film or 2 broadcast TV credits.

  The BAFTA Crew programme includes:

   • Live masterclases with major craft and technical talent, spread over the English regions. Each masterclass is followed by informal networking with speakers and fellow BAFTA Crew members.

   • Online interactive mini-masterclasses with live Q&As.

   • Attendance at a networking launch hosted in four different locations throughout England (Manchester, Sheffield, Bristol and Birmingham).

   • Online social network of fellow BAFTA Crew members for information sharing and Q&As.

   • For those who want to opt in, BAFTA will also publish the names and several key credits of BAFTA Crew members. This list will be available to visiting speakers and the wider industry on the BAFTA website.

   • An introduction to the Production & Location Services offered by Creative England in particular to the Crewing service and the National Crew & Facilities database. This service is not only supported by a free to join database, but a series of national crew nights and a dedicated crewing manager who works across all production supported by the Creative England Production Liaison managers 

  For further information and to access the online application form, please click here.

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  07 Dec 2012

  Government Announces £6m Skills Funding for Creative Industries

  Employers in the Creative Industries today welcomed the Government's boost for skills development of up to £6m over two years co-invested with industry. Announced in the Autumn Statement, the co-investment between industry and Government will have a total worth of £12m and will provide entry and professional level training for over 3,300 individuals working in film, TV, animation and video games. This boost to skills will support these sectors, key to UK economy, in their ambitious plans for growth.

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  Creative Skillset will work with representatives of each industry to ensure that all investments made will be targeted at areas of priority.

  Stewart Till CBE, Chair of Creative Skillset and CEO of Sonar Entertainment said:

  "Through the Treasury consultation on tax relief our industries have identified the UK's skills and talent as one of the principal drivers of growth and of our global reputation. We applaud the Government for taking this issue forward. This much needed and welcome injection of one-off co-investment will help incentivise the delivery of training to develop skills that will support the growth in jobs that the tax reliefs will bring. We are delighted that Creative Skillset will be progressing this crucial initiative."

  Creative Industries Minister Ed Vaizey said:

  "Our Creative Industries are worth over £36 billion a year at the latest count. They are a real success story and a key part of our economic growth strategy. But they need to make sure that they can continue to compete in the global marketplace - which is hugely competitive and constantly evolving. This new £6m investment will make sure that our Creative Industries have people with right skills to make sure they stay at the top."

  John McVay, CEO, Producers Alliance for Cinema and Television, said:

  "In recent years we have seen considerable growth in the film, TV and animation industries. They are a significant part of the Creative Industries, who overall provide 5.1% of the UK's employment. Creative Skillset's Skills Investment Fund has already helped our members create business opportunities in film. This welcome announcement will extend the same approach to high-end TV and animation which will help these industries grow further and faster."

  Dr Jo Twist, CEO, UKIE said:

  "The success of the UK's exciting games and interactive entertainment sector is in large part down to the skills and creativity of its employees. This welcome announcement will help meet the skills targets we have established with Creative Skillset and will help ensure that UK games businesses have access to the high-quality, next-generation talent that they need to keep the industry at the forefront of the world."

  Iain Smith, Producer, PG Board Member, Chair of Film Skills Council and Film Industry Training Board, said:

  "The UK Creative Industries are renowned for having a world-beating skills base. A new challenge is making sure that we can effectively resource increased levels of production, as a result of the tax credits, to the same high standards. It is fantastic to see today's financial commitment from the Chancellor to support skills and talent development for high-end TV production, film, animation and computer games to help our industries step up to this challenge. This investment will match existing funds already in place, such as the Lottery funds for film via the BFI, to support delivery of more ambitious and comprehensive skills strategies, building on Creative Skillset's work to date in each sector."

  The fund will be routed through Creative Skillset's Skills Investment Fund which currently manages film industry investment and will now extend its scope to the other three sectors.

  Over the last five years Creative Skillset has managed combined investment funds of £25 million for training provision in film and TV. This investment has provided support to nearly 6,000 beneficiaries.

  The announcement is an endorsement of this model where the industry has built a co-ordinated approach to identifying, funding, and addressing skills gaps, and which is now copied by other countries.

  The investment, available from April 2013, will help industry quickly up-skill and maximise economic benefit from the new tax reliefs for high-end TV production, animation and video games that are being introduced at the same time.

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  07 Dec 2012

  Andrew Dixon Stands Down as CEO of Creative Scotland

  Creative Scotland this week announced that Andrew Dixon has taken the decision to stand down from the post of Chief Executive at Creative Scotland and make way for a new Chief Executive to lead the organisation through an important period of change. 

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  Sir Sandy Crombie, Chair of Creative Scotland said:

  "On behalf of the Board, I would like to thank Andrew for his stewardship of Creative Scotland since its inception. As a new organisation with an extensive remit, there have been inevitable challenges during this period and Andrew has consistently led the organisation with energy, passion and enthusiasm. He has also taken every opportunity to be a vociferous champion and advocate for Scottish arts and culture."

  Andrew Dixon, in a statement about his departure said:

  "It has been a privilege to have been involved in the early years of Creative Scotland and to have worked with such talented and dedicated staff, but I now feel the time is right for a change of direction for both myself and the organisation.

  "I am proud of what has been achieved since the merger. We have delivered new resources for the arts and established strong partnerships with local authorities, broadcasters and many other agencies.

  "The Year of Creative Scotland, The Guide to Scotland's Festivals, a new capital programme, the Creative Place Awards and the recent Luminate festival have shown the potential for all parts of Scotland to play a part in the creativity of the nation.

  "I have been disappointed, given my track record, not to gain the respect and support of some of the more established voices in Scottish culture and I hope that my resignation will clear the way for a new phase of collaboration between artists and Creative Scotland.

  "I have, however, also received much support and generosity of spirit from people in the arts and culture community across Scotland. I have been grateful for the tireless support of Fiona Hyslop and many others in Government. I would also like to thank Sir Sandy Crombie and the rest of the Board who volunteer their time and expertise so willingly. The staff team at Creative Scotland is exceptional and, despite recent strains, they continue to demonstrate professionalism and a true passion for the artistic and creative life of Scotland. I wish them all the very best."

  The Board will now begin the process of finding a new Chief Executive and setting up interim arrangements. In the immediate future, the Senior Management Team will report directly to Sir Sandy Crombie as Chair of the Board.

  Andrew Dixon will leave Creative Scotland at the end of January 2013 after completing a programme of handover and transition support to the Chair and the Board.

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  30 Nov 2012

  BBFC Launch New Website

  The BBFC has launched its new website www.bbfc.co.uk which brings together the main BBFC website, the BBFC website for parents (PBBFC) and the BBFC education website for students (SBBFC). With improved search functionality, the new look BBFC website places film content information at its core, making it easier for the public, parents in particular, to find detailed BBFCinsight information about any film rated by the BBFC.

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  David Cooke, Director of the BBFC says: “We designed the new website to make it easier for parents to make informed decisions about the films their children see whether at the cinema, on DVD or via download. BBFCinsight is designed to be clear and unbiased, giving details about the age rating issues in a film, but also other details parents have told us they like to be aware of, such as examples of mild language, or even themes such as divorce or bereavement that may not impact on the age rating, but might upset some children. Parents can find a short summary of BBFCinsight on DVD boxes and cinema posters and more detailed BBFCinsight is published on the website and the BBFC iPhone and Android Apps.”

  All BBFC film age ratings come with BBFCinsight, which combines the BBFC’s previous Consumer Advice and Extended Classification Information (ECI) under one memorable name. BBFCinsight begins with a summary sentence (like Consumer Advice) then goes straight into a longer explanation about the classification of the film and why it got the rating it did. The new BBFC website also allows users to watch trailers* for new films and sign up to receive regular BBFC newsletters.

  John Carr, key adviser on internet safety to the UK Government and Executive Board member of the UK Council for Child Internet Safety (UKCCIS) said: “BBFCinsight and the new BBFC website  will prove incredibly useful to parents navigating the wealth of online film content available to them and their families. By providing detailed information about a films’ rating before it’s released, the BBFC is equipping parents with tools that are timely, intuitive and provide information at a glance, as well as a more in-depth explanation about what their children are going to see. Parents should not have to struggle to find out whether a film or DVD might upset their child or another family member and the BBFC is helping to ensure this is something all families can prevent. ”

  Verity Gill, Founding Director of Grannynet said: “Here at Grannynet we are delighted with the new BBFCinsight tool which we feel adds an invaluable dimension to the already vital support that the BBFC offers to grandparents.  Any way in which our members can feel more confident about what their grandchildren are watching will ensure the film selection process is easier and more enjoyable for everyone concerned.”

  Putting ratings information online

  Independent research carried out for the BBFC in 2011 found that 85% of respondents said it is important to have consistent BBFC classifications available for Video-on-Demand content, rising to 90% amongst parents with children under 16. As well as providing detailed BBFCinsight for every film classified, the BBFC’s service for streamed and downloaded content, which launched in collaboration with the home entertainment industry in 2008, also provides trusted classifications, category symbols and BBFCinsight to set-top box, video-on-demand and other online content providers. Key affiliates using the BBFC service include Walt Disney Studios Home Entertainment Europe, Warner Bros., Paramount, 20th Century Fox, Universal, BT Vision, Tesco/Blinkbox, TalkTalk, Picturebox and Netflix.

  Education

  The new BBFC website features all the BBFC’s educational content, previously available on the Students’ SBBFC website. This includes case studies about controversial films, competitions for kids and information about how to book BBFC educational visits. The BBFC has established a number of partnerships with the film industry and cinemas to increase its contact with parents and children. Dialogue with the public both online and through education seminars, is integral to the work of the BBFC and helps inform the issues raised at each review of the BBFC Classification Guidelines. As part of this education and outreach work, the BBFC visited around 130 schools, colleges and other institutions in 2011, speaking to around 12,000 students.

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  30 Nov 2012

  Pinewood Appoint Ruth Prior & Announce Increase In Profit & Revenue

  Pinewood Shepperton plc have announced the appointment of Ruth Prior as an Independent Non-Executive Director and Chair of the Audit Committee alongside news of buoyant profit and revenue for the six months to 30th September 2012.

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  Lord Grade of Yarmouth, CBE, Chairman, Pinewood Shepperton plc said, "I am delighted Ruth has agreed to become an Independent Non-Executive Director.  She will complement the existing skills of the Board, bringing with her significant and relevant experience from another of the key sectors of the creative industries”.

  Ruth Prior said, "I am pleased to be joining the Board of Pinewood which is one of the most iconic brands in the film and television industry.  I look forward to working with Michael Grade, Ivan Dunleavy and colleagues and to contributing to the Company's plans for growth."

  Prior to joining the Board, Ruth Prior, was Group Chief Operating Officer and Group Chief Financial Officer of the EMI group of companies (“EMI”) (2010-2012) and Finance Director of Portfolio Business at Terra Firma Capital Partners Limited (“Terra Firma”) (2002-2010).

  Ivan Dunleavy, Chief Executive, said, "The Company is delighted to welcome Ruth Prior who has joins the Board as an Independent Non-Executive Director.

  Current trading is positive with a high level of contracted revenues for the remainder of the current financial year. The number of film productions contracted so far for next year is encouraging and the Board looks forward to the future with confidence."

  Interim results for the six months ended 30 September 2012 (the company recently changed its accounting reference date from 31 December to 31 March) indicate a revenue of £27.1m, up from £24.6m for the six months ended 31 December 2011, and an operating profit before exceptional items of £6.1m, up from £3.7m for the six months ended 31 December 2011.

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  30 Nov 2012

  BFI Takes New £22m Deal For UK Audiences To The Next Level

  The BFI has revealed further details of its groundbreaking new offer for UK audiences, as it opens applications from organisations wishing to take a pivotal role in its new UK Audience Network.

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  With an investment of up to £2.5m each year, the UK Audience Network forms a central tenet of the BFI’s bold new £22m Audience Fund to boost choices and bring new film experiences to UK audiences, no matter where they live.

  The UK-wide Network will consist of up to ten ‘Hubs’ – bringing together varied groups of organisations across different areas of the country to work together to bring a greater depth and breadth of film experiences to their local areas. Each Hub will be led by a Hub Lead Organisation – an organisation with strength and experience in growing and developing audiences for specialised film, which can act as a cultural leader, facilitator and source of support to other Hub members.

  The search for the Hub Lead Organisations (HLOs) has now begun, with the BFI launching an open call for applications from organisations across the UK with the capability and expertise to take key roles in its innovative new approach to bringing the very best film experiences to UK audiences.

  Amanda Nevill, Chief Executive of the BFI, comments:

  "This announcement marks the first exciting move towards increasing opportunities for film lovers right across the UK. We want to encourage everyone to enjoy a lifelong relationship with film, regardless of where they live. But the reality for so many in the UK is that they simply cannot access and enjoy the full richness and breadth of film and film culture on their doorstep – we want to change this.

  Our ambitious UK Audience Network, intrinsically linked to our comprehensive new film education offer for 5-19 year olds and our plans to bring film experiences to 1000 community venues, marks the beginning of a new joined up strategy to help put film at the centre of UK cultural life. By fostering partnership and collaboration from a range of experts who really understand how to connect films with audiences, and who appreciate the power that film can have in people’s lives, we hope the UK Audience Network will help unlock thought-provoking and inspiring films and film culture across all platforms, for the benefit of audiences everywhere."

  The BFI’s UK Audience Network aims to reach right across the UK, uniting a range of partners potentially including all cinema exhibitors, film festivals, educators, film societies, community venues, broadcasters, libraries and others, to help bring diverse and engaging film experiences to as many people as possible. The BFI’s ambition is to ensure rich film experiences can be accessed and enjoyed by everyone across the whole of the UK.

  The UK Audience Network’s ability to reach communities the length and breadth of the UK will be further enhanced by combining the physical capabilities of its partners with an ambitious online presence to help bring film culture directly into people’s homes, and enable Network partners and Hub organisations to share knowledge and expertise.

  Applications for Hub Lead Organisations are now open and stage one applications close at 2pm on Monday 17 December.

  Find out more and download application guidelines and forms here: www.bfi.org.uk/audiencenetwork

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  30 Nov 2012

  Danny Cohen Looks Ahead To 2013 On BBC One

  2013 will see some major event dramas on BBC One, including The Village, Ripper Street, Luther, The White Queen, The Game, The 7.39, Jonathan Strange & Mr Sorrell and the Doctor Who 50th Anniversary Special.

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  Controller of BBC One, Danny Cohen, says: "The job of running BBC One is all about making television audiences love, both in terms of new programmes and maintaining the vibrancy and creativity of our longer running shows."

  2012 has been an extremely strong year for BBC One. The Olympics, Euros and Diamond Jubilee helped draw huge audiences and it's also been a year of record-breaking hits. Call The Midwife and The Voice UK are the biggest new Drama and Entertainment launches on the channel in over a decade; BBC One successfully launched four new returning drama series (The Syndicate, Prisoners' Wives, The Paradise, Call the Midwife); and Last Tango in Halifax is the highest mid-week drama launch of the year so far on any channel.

  BBC One is on track to grow its peak-time share for the first time since 2008, and is the biggest channel in both peak and all hours so far this year.

  Danny Cohen continues: "We plan to maintain our creative momentum in 2013, and there are five key themes that I am focused on to ensure that we deliver that. Event Drama, the biggest names in Comedy, high-impact intelligent Factual, a strong sense of contemporary Britain and warm-hearted popular Entertainment will all play an important role on BBC One in the coming year. Together, they will express the range and creative ambition audiences can expect from the channel in 2013."

  Event Drama

  Drama on BBC One takes another big leap in 2013 in the shape of some major event dramas, including The Village, Ripper Street, Luther, The White Queen and the Doctor Who 50th Anniversary Special. These shows will bring a rich range of tones and worlds to BBC One's fiction.

  Danny says: "I aim to keep raising the stakes with our drama output on BBC One. Ben Stephenson and I are committed to finding pieces with great ambition, quality writing and memorable performances which portray a captivating range of fictional worlds and landscapes. We aim to keep working with Britain's very best writers, actors and directors."

  Three new drama commissions announced today deliver the very best of event drama. Jonathan Strange and Mr Norrell, based on the best-selling novel by Susanna Clarke and adapted by Peter Harness, will bring magic and adventure to BBC One in prime-time. David Nicholls, famed for his novel and subsequent film One Day will be bringing his talents to BBC One with new romantic drama The 7.39. And Toby Whithouse, the creator of Being Human, has penned a brilliant cold war spy drama series called The Game.

  The biggest names in Comedy

  Danny says: "With the line-up of comic talent appearing on and writing for the channel in 2013, this will be a big year for Comedy on BBC One."

  BBC One kicks off the year with a blockbuster combination of Miranda and Mrs Brown's Boys, two incredibly successful series both with outstanding writer/performers at their heart. Exciting brand-new sitcoms from two masters of British comedy Ben Elton and David Walliams are also coming up later in the year. The return of Lee Mack in Not Going Out, a new series of Outnumbered and a second series of Asian sitcom Citizen Khan will play alongside a new comedy piece starring Sue Johnson based on last year's Christmas special Lapland.

  Danny also announces a new sitcom series called Father Figure which is created, written by and starring the popular stand-up comedian Jason Byrne.

  High-impact Factual

  High-impact Factual programmes will also form an important part of the range BBC One offers.

  Danny says: "The New Year begins with Africa, the latest piece of magic from the BBC's peerless Natural History Unit, voiced by Sir David Attenborough. It's full of unmissable moments that are the hallmark of the BBC's wildlife output. We will also be premiering a new series on DNA presented through the eyes and genetic coding of the brilliant polymath Eddie Izzard, and a series on the history of working-class Britain by Paul O'Grady."

  Contemporary Britain

  New prime-time documentary series The Prisoners And Life-Savers "will introduce a stronger and spikier flavour of contemporary Britain to BBC One in the coming months," he reveals. Plus a range of programmes that examine the cost of living and how people manage their budgets in these challenging times.

  Warm-hearted and popular Entertainment

  BBC One will continue to deliver confident Saturday night entertainment, with two new series launching in January. They are Richard Hammond's Secret Service, and Claire Balding will present a new intelligence test format called Britain's Brightest. Later in the year, The Voice UK returns, along with Strictly Come Dancing.

  Further details on the new commissions announced can be found below

  Jonathan Strange And Mr Norrell

  6x60 series, based on the bestselling novel by Susanna Clarke and adapted by Peter Harness. Jonathan Strange And Mr Norrell is set during the Napoleonic Wars in an England where magic once existed and is about to return.

  Jonathan Strange And Mr Norrell is produced by Cuba, the production arm of leading literary and talent agency Curtis Brown in association with Feel Film and Farmoor. 

  Toby Haynes directs, Nick Hirschkorn will produce with Nick Marston, Justin Thomson-Glover and Patrick Irwin are executive producing. Matthew Read is the Executive Producer for the BBC.

  Cuba is also the production company behind BAFTA-winning Boy A and critically acclaimed Broken.

  The 7.39

  2x60 by award-winning writer David Nicholls (One Day, Starter For Ten) and produced by Carnival Films.

  After fighting for a seat on their morning commute, Sally and Carl begin talking and suddenly their daily train journey becomes a lot more interesting.  Relatively happy in their home lives, they are, however, drawn to each other, and as their friendship grows to flirtation they refuse to admit - to each other or themselves - that a line might be crossed. The consequences of discovery will be life-changing, catastrophic perhaps, and yet they can’t help falling in love. A romantic drama for grown-ups, The 7.39 is charged, funny and moving.

  Executive Producer for Carnival Films is Sally Woodward Gentle and Polly Hill for the BBC.

  The Game

  6x60 series, written and created by Toby Whithouse (Being Human).

  The Game is a Cold War spy thriller set in the secretive world of 1970s espionage.

  Produced by BBC Cymru Wales and executive produced by Faith Penhale, Brian Minchin and Toby Whithouse. 

  Father Figure

  New sitcom series created, written by and starring popular stand-up comedian Jason Bryne, made in house by BBC Production.

  Jason Byrne plays Tom, a father figure we can all relate to. Tom is married with two sons and tries to be the best dad he can, but bad luck and his extended family are always upsetting his plans. The series will be produced by Julia McKenzie and the executive producer is Stephen McCrum for the BBC.

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  30 Nov 2012

  Mayor Invites Indian Filmmakers To Make More Movies In London

  The Mayor of London Boris Johnson today announced that two new Indian films are to be shot in London in 2013, as he met with top film and TV producers in Mumbai. The third film in India's hugely successful Housefull franchise - Housefull 3, starring Akshay Kumar - will be entirely filmed in London and the Mayor has also invited the film's producer Sajid Nadiadwala to shoot his directorial debut Kick, starring Salman Khan, in the UK capital. Post-production on both films, which have a combined budget of £35m, will be in London's Soho.

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  The Mayor, who is on a visit to India to strengthen economic and cultural links with the country, today met with top level Indian filmmakers and producers in the film-making capital Mumbai and urged them to make London their movie set of choice.

  The Mayor said: 'I'm thrilled that Sajid Nadiadwala has chosen London as the backdrop for not one, but two of his brand new blockbusters. As our recent World Cities Culture Report shows, London and Mumbai are major players on the international stage for creativity and the arts. Filmmaking is massively important to both our cities and we need to build on the momentum that already exists.

  2012 has been another bumper year for movie-making in London and I want to make it as easy as possible to film in the city, whether you want to feature an iconic landmark as a backdrop, take advantage of our second to none post-production facilities, or be amongst the first to use our incredible Olympic Park as a location.'

  London is the third busiest production city in the world, with studios in and around the capital making up 75 per cent of the UK film industry, and every day an average of 40 crews is out filming on the city streets. London is home to some of the world's best post-production companies, offering award winning, state-of-the-art facilities that are in demand for the world's biggest effects movies. The industry supports almost 117, 500 jobs and contributes over £4.6 billion to the UK economy. The new James Bond movie Skyfall and Ridley Scott's The Counselor were both filmed in the heart of the capital this year, while last weekend iconic Trafalgar Square became the setting for action scenes from All You Need is Kill, Warner Bros Pictures' new film starring Tom Cruise due for release in 2014.

  London and India already have a healthy creative relationship, with a steady stream of Indian films being shot in the UK over the last decade. Earlier this month saw the premiere of Jab Tak Hai Jaan, the final film of revered Bollywood director Yash Chopra, who died in October at the age of 80. Starring Shah Rukh Khan, much of the film was shot in London, taking in many city landmarks, with significant assistance from Film London, the capital's film and media agency, to ensure the shoot was as smooth as possible. British filmmakers have also been busy in India over the last few years, not least Danny Boyle who directed the Oscar winning Slumdog Millionaire.

  At today's summit with film and television executives, the Mayor outlined the UK's new Creative Sector Tax Relief, which comes into force in 2013 and is aimed at international companies producing TV, animation and games. This will complement the tax relief already available to filmmakers and a film co-production agreement that is in place between India and the UK. The Mayor hopes Indian film-makers and TV producers, who can benefit from the new tax relief, will find working in the capital even more attractive.

  Also taking part in today's summit was David Parfitt, the renowned British producer (Parade's End and Shakespeare in Love) and Chair of Film London. As the capital's film and media agency, Film London offers a one-stop shop for film crews wanting to shoot in the city, helping them to gain access to locations, as well as highly skilled crews and cutting edge facilities that are amongst the best in the world. As well as a dedicated online guide for Indian productions filming in capital, Film London also runs a number of successful international business events, including the Production Finance Market, which connects international financiers and producers, and the London UK Film Focus, an export event for British film and sales agents.

  David Parfitt, Chair of Film London and producer (Parade's End and Shakespeare in Love), said: 'London is the heart of the UK's film industry and home to some of the world's best crew and facilities. We have a fantastic track record of successfully facilitating Indian productions which have shot in London and we want to build on this work for the benefit of both of our industries.

  It is an honour to come to Mumbai, the centre of India's film industry, with the Mayor of London to meet with the industry and to announce two new films which will shoot in London next year. With the support of the Mayor, Film London and incoming tax relief for animation and TV, I hope we can encourage more Indian productions to come to London in the future.' 

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  23 Nov 2012

  ONSIGHT Supplies Camera and Post Solutions to First, the Official Film of the 2012 Olympics

  The summer was dominated by the success of London 2012 and this month sees the release of First, The Official Film of the London 2012 Olympic Games. The story focuses on the experiences of twelve international athletes, competing in the Olympics for the very first time. PG affiliate, ONSIGHT is proud to have provided full production facilities to help capture this sporting history like never seen before.

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  First is written, produced and directed by Caroline Rowland, Founder and Executive Creative Director of New Moon. The film is independently financed but is supported by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) and the London 2012 Organising Committee (LOCOG).

  ONSIGHT's services comprised of production and post production facilities. Their Camera Rental department supplied a series of ARRI Alexa units, including Zoom lenses, which helped achieve the feature length documentary's filmic look. Unprecedented access reveals the competitors' daily life in their home countries and in lead up to the most important step in their careers. The project was shot in a number of locations worldwide before returning to the UK to film the action at the games.

  The athletes featured include, Kenyan runner David Rudisha (800m gold medal winner), Team GB's track cyclist Laura Trott (double gold medallist), Chinese diver Qiu Bo (silver medallist) and boxer Katie Taylor (gold medallist). Caroline Rowland explains, "The narrative allows each of them to emerge as modern day superheroes, demonstrating the full breadth of the experience of being an Olympian - win, lose or draw."

  ONSIGHT provided a full post production service for the film from offline at New Moon's offices to final finishing at their Soho facility. ONSIGHT's Colourist David Gonzalez Lozano graded the film, using SGO Mistika. Specific work included heavily stylised sequences, referred to as 'Hero Shots', which poignantly introduces each Olympian. The team's Lead VFX and Online Editor Miguel Caamaño Riveiro also produced critical effects to meet the client's requirements.

  Caroline Rowland adds, "Working with ONSIGHT has been a fantastic experience from beginning to end. The camera department were truly excellent and their knowledgeable team gave us exceptional support throughout our incredibly challenging filming schedule. But it was during post production that they really impressed. David Gonzalez Lozano is an exceptionally talented colourist who has the rare ability to translate verbal descriptions into cinematic light and shade. The finish is stunning and his commitment to making it look that way was untiring. The ONSIGHT experience has been one that I'm looking forward to repeating."

  First is in cinemas from 23 November in the UK and Ireland and out on DVD/Blu-ray from 26 November through Revolver. BBC Worldwide is distributing the film in other territories and talks are underway with NBC for distribution in the US. This new feature encapsulates the legacy of the London Games, bringing audiences closer to the athletes with both entertaining and inspiring results.

  Photo Credit: New Moon
  

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  23 Nov 2012

  BBC Announces New Drama Commissions for BBC One

  BBC Controller of Drama Ben Stephenson has this week announced 31 hours of new drama commissions highlighting BBC One's commitment to Original British Drama. Five new drama commissions were revealed alongside one recommission.
  

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  The upcoming 31 hours of drama are in addition to BBC One's continued commitment to continuing drama series including; EastEnders, Holby, Casualty and Waterloo Road.

  Ben Stephenson commented, "2012 has been a record-breaking and award-winning year for BBC Drama and our new 31 hours of programming illustrates our sheer dedication to British Drama."

  He continued, "The BBC commissions more drama than any other broadcaster with over 450 hours of drama a year delivering a range of high quality, creative, ambitious television. We are the home of British Drama and combine the UK's hottest talent both on and off screen to produce the highest quality programmes that aim to up the ambition and scale of our output."

  All BBC One drama is commissioned by Danny Cohen, Controller, BBC One and Ben Stephenson, Controller, BBC Drama Commissioning.

  What Remains

  A 4x60 serial written by Tony Basgallop (Inside Men) and made by BBC Drama Production.

  The body of Melissa Young, a 30-year-old single woman, is found decomposed in the loft above her flat two years after her death. How is it that no one missed her, or even noticed that she was gone? What does that say about the life she lived or the society we occupy? And is her killer still at large?

  What Remains is a state-of-the-nation whodunit, in which the neighbouring residents are the chief suspects. Every flat has its own story to tell, in equal weight. In one way or another they all had some sort of connection with the victim. By turns she was bullied by them, she was harassed, or she was simply ignored. She was secretly in love with one of them. And as we will ultimately discover, she was killed by someone very close to home.

  The BBC executive producer is Hilary Salmon.

  The Escape Artist

  A 3x60 serial written by David Wolstencroft (Spooks) and made by Endor Productions.

  Will Burton a talented junior barrister of peerless intellect and winning charm who specialises in spiriting people out of tight legal corners. He is in high demand as he has never lost a case. But when his talents acquit the notorious prime suspect in an horrific murder trial, that brilliance comes back to bite him with unexpected and chilling results... not to mention a shocking twist in the tale.

  The producers for Endor Productions are Hilary Bevan Jones and Paul Frift. Matthew Read is the executive producer for the BBC.

  The Great Train Robbery

  A two-part serial (2x90) written by Chris Chibnall, World Productions.

  From the team behind BBC Two's critically-acclaimed United come two films telling the stories behind the most infamous heist in British history on its 50th anniversary: 'The Robbers' Tale' tells the story of the gang whose audacious crime secured unheard of wealth and the wrath of the Establishment. 'The Coppers' Tale' tells the story of Tommy Butler and the crack team of detectives he assembled in his relentless quest to bring the robbers to justice.

  Directed by James Strong, executive produced by Simon Heath and produced by Julia Stannard for World Productions and executive produced by Polly Hill for the BBC.

  Happy Valley

  A 6x60 series written by Sally Wainwright (Last Tango In Halifax, Scott & Bailey) and made by Red Production Company.

  Catherine Crowther is the sergeant on duty when flustered, nervous-looking accountant Colin Weatherill comes into her West Yorkshire police station to report a crime. He's reticent about the details and Colin loses his nerve. The crime he was trying to report was Colin's own brain-child, a plot to kidnap his boss's daughter and keep enough of the ransom to put his kids through private school. And now local drug king-pin David Cowgill has put the plan into action, and Colin's fantasy has become a grim and dangerous reality. The botched kidnapping of eccentric, angry Ann Gallagher and its fallout unfolds... Catherine is used to picking up the pieces of everyone else's lives but the hunt for Ann Gallagher will get right under her skin. Catherine becomes convinced that only by finding Ann alive and bringing her captors to justice can she avenge the death of her daughter.

  The executive producer for Red is Nicola Shindler and Matthew Read for the BBC.

  By Any Means

  6x60 by Red Planet Pictures.

  The thrilling drama follows a covert police department that, when the legal system fails, go to any lengths to bring the criminal elite to justice.

  The series, created by a team of writers led by Tony Jordan, follows a clandestine police department run by maverick Jack Quinn. Shadowy and brilliant, the team go about their business, exploiting weaknesses, weaving a web of cunning and deception that leads the unwary target into the arms of justice, by any means.

  The BBC executive producer is Polly Hill. Red Planet Pictures executive producers are Tony Jordan and Belinda Campbell.

  Inspector George Gently: Series 7

  4x90 produced by Company Pictures.

  A year on and Gently (Martin Shaw) and Bacchus (Lee Ingleby) have both survived the shootings to fight another day.

  Bacchus has put his life on the line for his boss, and this gives a new dimension to their relationship. Gently is recovering from injuries and is pushing himself back to fitness.

  The new series will be set against the backdrop of 1969.

  Inspector George Gently gained an average audience of 5.8m earlier this year.

  Company Pictures executive producers are Claire Ingham, Charles Pattinson and George Faber. The BBC executive producer is Polly Hill. 

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  22 Nov 2012

  New Director-General of the BBC Named as Tony Hall

  The BBC Trust has today appointed Tony Hall - Lord Hall of Birkenhead - as the Director-General of the BBC, following the departure of George Entwistle. Lord Hall is currently Chief Executive of the Royal Opera House, was Chairman of the board for the Cultural Olympiad and was head of BBC News and Current Affairs from 1996 to 2001. He was a digital pioneer, launching BBC News Online, as well as Radio 5 Live, BBC News 24 and BBC Parliament. At present he is Deputy Chairman of Channel 4.

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  Lord Hall is expected to start in early March and in the interim period Tim Davie will remain as Acting Director-General.

  Announcing the appointment, which was unanimously agreed by Trustees at a meeting this morning, BBC Trust Chairman Lord Patten said:

  "While there are still very serious questions to be answered by the on-going inquiries, it is in the interests of licence fee payers that the BBC now starts to refocus on its main purpose – making great programmes that audiences love and trust.

  "In doing this it will need to take a long, hard look at the way it operates and put in place the changes required to ensure it lives up to the standards that the public expects. Tony Hall is the right person to lead this and I am delighted that he is taking on this role. For its part I want to make sure that the Trust gives Tony Hall whatever help and support he needs to re-build the BBC's management around him.

  "Tony Hall has been an insider and is a currently an outsider. As an ex-BBC man he understands how the Corporation's culture and behaviour make it, at its best, the greatest broadcaster in the world. And from his vantage point outside the BBC, he understands the sometimes justified criticisms of the Corporation – that it can be inward looking and on occasions too institutional.

  "But perhaps most importantly, given where we now find ourselves, his background in news will prove invaluable as the BBC looks to rebuild both its reputation in this area and the trust of audiences."

  Lord Hall will take up the post on a salary of £450,000 per year.

  Lord Hall said:

  "I believe passionately in the BBC and that's why I have accepted Lord Patten's invitation to become Director General.

  "This organisation is an incredibly important part of what makes the United Kingdom what it is. And of course it matters not just to people in this country – but to tens of millions around the world too.

  "It's been a difficult few weeks – but together we'll get through it.

  "I'm committed to ensuring our news services are the best in the world.

  "I'm committed to making this a place where creative people, the best and the brightest, want to work.

  "And I know from my first days here as a news trainee, to my time as head of news and current affairs, to my time now at the Royal Opera House, that I can't do it on my own. Having the right teams working together, sparking off each other, is key.

  "And I want to build a world class team to lead a world class BBC."

  The appointment was made following a direct approach from the BBC Trust to Lord Hall. The Trust did not approach any other candidates. Lord Hall did not apply for the job when it last became vacant as a result of Mark Thompson's departure.

  Commenting on the process of appointment, Lord Patten added:

  "Just over four months ago the Trust completed a thorough recruitment process. Tony Hall wasn't available then but I am delighted he has agreed to come on board now.

  "Of course we might have considered going through the whole lengthy recruitment process again with a new round of advertisements and another global hunt for candidates. But I believe the approach we have taken is ultimately in the interests of the BBC and, most importantly, licence fee payers as we have got the best candidate and he will help the organisation quickly get back on an even keel." 

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  22 Nov 2012

  Pinewood and Shepperton Mixing Theatres Install First UK Dolby® Atmos™ Systems

  The Pinewood Group's mixing theatres at Pinewood and Shepperton Studios are to become the very first facilities in the UK to be fitted with Dolby's revolutionary new end-to-end audio platform - Dolby®AtmosTM. Pinewood's Powell Theatre has just reopened after a complete refurbishment and installation and Shepperton's Korda Theatre is set to follow in January 2013.

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  The new Dolby Atmos system, which Pinewood described as one of the most significant developments in the history of cinema sound, will give content creators unprecedented control of the placement and movement of sound within the cinema. It will also transport cinemagoers into the adventure through a lifelike and immersive sensory cinema experience as cinemas in the UK and around the world begin to be fitted with the new system.

  The studio group said that Pinewood's Powell Theatre and Shepperton's Korda Theatre will become the most incredible playgrounds for sound mixers based at the Studios and currently the only UK facilities capable of mixing in this new format. They also confirmed that the Pinewood Post team is expected to start work on one of the first films to utilise a Dolby Atmos soundtrack from the UK in December this year.

  Pinewood's Post Production team is officially launching the newly fitted Powell Theatre to industry colleagues today, Thursday, 22nd November, and hopes to welcome clients from across the industry to road test the system.

  Giles Farley, Managing Director, Pinewood Post Production commented, "Pinewood Studios is constantly looking to stay ahead of the game and invest in its facilities and our Post Production department is no exception. Dolby Atmos will provide our clients with the very latest in cutting edge sound technology and that's an exciting thing to be a part of. To be the first facilities in the UK and one of the first in the world to have this new system speaks volumes about Pinewood Post's position in the global film industry."

  Julian Pinn, Director, Cinema Marketing, EMEA, Dolby Laboratories said, "Pinewood and Shepperton Studios are truly iconic and known all over the world - it is exciting to see that they will be the first studio facilities in the UK to have installed Dolby Atmos. Pinewood's award winning mixers have been some of the first to embrace the new system and we can't wait for audiences to hear the results of their efforts."

  Additional benefits of Dolby Atmos are that it complements existing workflows, can support up to 128 simultaneous and lossless audio streams and allows for up to 64 discrete speaker feeds. Full frequency range surrounds and overheads add exceptional clarity and detail to the listening experience.

  For more information on Pinewood Post Production please visit www.pinewoodgroup.com/post-production and to find out more about Dolby Atmos, please visit www.dolby.com/Atmos.

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  22 Nov 2012

  Two New Board Members Appointed at Creative England

  Creative England has appointed two new board members, games guru Jeff Coghlan and finance director Erica Ingham. The move comes as Creative England, the development agency for film, television and digital media industries, completes its first year of operations and announces new initiatives to help gaming and digital SMEs grow.

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  Jeff Coghlan founded Matmi in 2001. His digital marketing breakthrough came with the success of online game, Monster Poolside Sumo, which he created to promote the company's first website. The game, which features a sumo ring in a swimming pool, swiftly racked up millions of plays, going global before viral marketing even had a name. The success led him to realise the power of engaging with consumers via discreetly branded online games, and award-winning Matmi has since gone on to work with brands including United Airlines, EMI, Vimto, ASDA, ITV and Parlophone.

  Erica Ingham is an experienced finance director specialising in the creative industries. Erica is the owner of FD Assistance, a Manchester-based company that provides portfolio finance director services for media and technology companies. Erica has held several Finance Director and Head of Finance roles within media having worked for BBC Radio, MTV, 20th Century Fox and for Chello Media as Head of Finance for their Video on Demand European division. She now concentrates on providing strategic finance director support and accounting services to SMEs.

  Creative England's Chief Executive, Caroline Norbury, said: "Jeff and Erica join us at a particularly exciting time. It is fantastic for us to have someone with Jeff's experience on the board so that we can shape our support to offer these SMEs the help they need to realise their creative ambitions."

  She continued, "Access to finance is one of the issues most often reported as hindering the growth of SMEs in the creative digital sector. That's why we're especially delighted to have someone with Erica's background and skills so that we can address these problems and advise small companies on the best way forward for them." 

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  21 Nov 2012

  Licences Renewed for Channel 3 and 5 by Culture Secretary

  Channels 3 and 5 are to have their licences renewed for another 10 years, Culture Secretary Maria Miller announced today, subject to negotiations which include the levels of public service broadcasting. The renewal offers significant value to the creative industries as Channels 3 and 5 invest around £800 million a year in original content.

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  DCMS stated that the decision will give both Channel 3 and 5 the security required to plan and deliver public service programming and the confidence to invest in programming.

  Following the decision by the Culture Secretary, Ofcom will be asked to start discussions with the licence holders on the cost and terms of the renewals. The Channel 3 licences are held by ITV in England, Wales and The Channel Islands, STV in Scotland and UTV in Northern Ireland while the Channel 5 licence is held by Northern & Shell.

  Culture Secretary Maria Miller commented, "Renewing the licences for Channel 3 and 5 will enable us to secure a strong and diverse future for public service broadcasting. And in these tough economic times, my decision will give the current licence holders - multi million pound organisations - the security they need to grow and invest."

  She continued, "I intend for the licence renewals to deliver a good deal for viewers and the UK economy and also create certainty in the market during these difficult economic times. The UK is in a global race, and the TV programmes produced for 3 and 5 are exported around the world. Renewing the licences will ensure the holders can continue to invest in original UK content."

  After considering advice from Ofcom, the Culture Secretary has decided the licences should be renewed for the full 10 years. She has written to the regulator asking it to negotiate the licences, and highlighted the issues she wants looked at as part of that process. Those issues are:

  The need to work with the licence holders to maintain, or even increase, the current level of public service requirements, such as the amount of news or original content.

  Under proposals advanced by ITV, viewers in the south of Scotland would not receive the same level of programming about Scotland as those in the northern and central parts of the country. The Culture Secretary said she wanted to see a way forward that addressed the concerns of viewers in the Border region.

  At the Culture Secretary's request, Northern & Shell has made a commitment for the first time about investing in programmes for children on Channel 5. The channel has said it will broadcast at least 600 hours of UK-originated children's programmes a year and this would comprise at least half of children's programmes on the channel.

  She also agreed that Ofcom should progress the potential separation of the Wales and West Channel 3 licence region.

  The licences for Channel 3 and 5 expire on 31 December 2014 and Ofcom are expected to agree and complete the negotiations by then. However, Mrs Miller is prepared to extend the licences by a year if the necessary negotiations are not completed in time.

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  20 Nov 2012

  Elstree Studios Reveals £4.5m Expansion Project

  A multi-million pound, four acre expansion and construction of new film and television production facilities has been authorised for PG affiliate, Elstree Studios. Studios-owner Hertsmere Borough Council has accepted a £2 million loan towards the £4.5 million project from the Hertfordshire Local Enterprise Partnership's (LEP) Growing Places Fund.

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  The remaining £2.5 million for the project will be provided by the council from its reserves. It is hoped that work will start on the site early next year.

  Councillors voted unanimously to formally accept the offer, which was made by the LEP board earlier this year, at a full council meeting on Wednesday 14th November.

  Within a statement this week, the Studios noted that although it has attracted many acclaimed feature films and television shows including Oscar winning film The King's Speech and BBC talent show The Voice, a lack of current studio capacity has meant business has had to be turned away.

  Council leader and chairman of the board of directors at Elstree Studios, Morris Bright said: "I am delighted with the unanimous cross-party support given to this project by the council. This is the largest investment in the site in 15 years. Both the council and the studios are looking forward to moving ahead with this exciting project for the benefit of the media industry and the residents of Hertsmere.

  "Elstree Studios are a key part of our local economy and a source of great pride to residents. Despite the economic downturn, the studios remain busy around-the-clock, and from next year will also be providing a home for the BBC and some of its most popular shows for the next two and a half years while the BBC Studios at White City are being rebuilt."

  Roger Morris, managing director of Elstree Studios, said: "This is excellent news both for Hertsmere and Hertfordshire. The additional production facilities will ensure that Elstree Studios remain one of the UK's most popular studios for film and television production.

  "These expansion plans will help to create even more amazing opportunities for the studios and secure its place at the heart of the film and television industry."

  As well as creating jobs for the local community, estimates are the project will bring in at least a further £0.5 million per year for the studios.

  The studios currently generate £1.1 million in rental income for the council, the equivalent of 15% of the Council Tax subsidised for every home in the borough.

  The income from the studios helps to pay for services important to residents and keep Council Tax charges low.

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  20 Nov 2012

  Joint Bid Approved for New BBC, Channel 4 and Creative Skillset Programme

  Open Channels, a new programme tasked with building future creative talent has secured a £5m co-investment from the Employer Ownership Skills Pilot. The programme is an innovative and unprecedented partnership between the BBC, Channel 4 and Creative Skillset, to create a new 'end to end' programme of training, work placements, internships and Apprenticeships to support recruitment into production and technology roles in the broadcast TV sector. 

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  Open Channels aims to attract a more diverse range of young people entering and working in skill shortage roles. Channel 4, the BBC Academy and Creative Skillset will ensure the programme works with SME independent production companies and others in the broadcasting supply chain.

  The announcement of the successful bid came as BIS Minister of Skills Matthew Hancock launched the second round of the Employer Ownership Skills Pilot.

  He said: "I am also delighted to announce today that Channel 4 and the BBC have been successful in their joint round one bid with Creative Skillset to attract a more diverse range of young people into production and creative technology.

  "The Employer Ownership Pilot is not only strengthening individual businesses. It is showing us new ways to make sure the whole of the UK economy has the skills it needs to compete in the global race."

  The BBC and Channel 4 both have strong backgrounds in hiring new talent and training and development. The Open Channels programme will play to the different but complementary strengths of these two broadcasters, harnessing their reputations for both high quality programming and innovation.

  Part of Channel 4's remit will be to focus on an outreach programme aimed at young people who previously may never have felt that a career in broadcasting was for them. The programme will offer a pre-apprenticeship online learning platform and provide links and referrals to the BBC's training programmes. 60 interns will be selected from those who undergo online learning and these will be placed in new, emergent SMEs across the regions.

  The BBC will deliver a gold standard Technology Programme which, over five years, will produce 100+ Level 5/6 Apprentices and 60 technology trainees. The BBC will also 'over-hire' new higher level production Apprentices on behalf of the broadcasting supply chain, creating more structured, high quality career pathways in areas where there are critical skills shortages, making it easier and cheaper for smaller companies to invest in the new talent needed for growth.

  The partnership is pivotal to Creative Skillset's TV Content Strategy in addressing the urgent skill shortage roles in TV production and broadcast technology. Open Channels will change the mind-set of recruitment across the industry from ad-hoc to structured, from 'who you know' to open selection. This will attract a larger and more diverse talent pool within the sector addressing both diversity and social media issues and create a better regional spread of skills.

  Diane Herbert, Director of Human Resources, Channel 4, said: "We are incredibly passionate about providing work-related initiatives for people who want to pursue a career in the media industry, regardless of experience or background. Channel 4 is a major supporter of Creative Skillset and we are excited to be part of this ground-breaking partnership which builds on our record for innovation and outreach to help nurture and develop the next generation of talent in the industry."

  Anne Morrison, Director, BBC Academy and Chair of Creative Skillset TV & Content Strategy Group said: "This project proposes to make the BBC's training and associated resources available more widely across the broadcast supply chain - focusing on key industry skills gaps and making it more affordable for SMEs to invest in the diverse new talent needed to drive innovation and growth."

  Dinah Caine OBE, Chief Executive of Creative Skillset commented: "Open Channels represents a watershed moment bringing together the BBC, Channel 4 and Creative Skillset taking forward key priorities from our TV Content Strategy. We are delighted to be part of this important partnership, which addresses fair access and, amongst other things, supports independent production companies in hosting trained interns and Apprentices." 

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  16 Nov 2012

  BBC Director General George Entwistle Stands Down with Public Statement

  Following the recent Newsnight broadcast in which serious journalistic errors were made, George Entwistle has stood down as Director General of the BBC. Entwistle spent just over seven weeks in the role following his appointment in September this year.

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  George Entwistle made the following statement to announce his resignation.

  "In the light of the fact that the Director-General is also the Editor-in-Chief and ultimately responsible for all content; and in the light of the unacceptable journalistic standards of the Newsnight film broadcast on Friday 2nd November; I have decided that the honourable thing to do is to step down from the post of Director-General.

  "When appointed to the role, with 23 years' experience as a producer and leader at the BBC, I was confident the Trustees had chosen the best candidate for the post, and the right person to tackle the challenges and opportunities ahead. However, the wholly exceptional events of the past few weeks have led me to conclude that the BBC should appoint a new leader.

  "To have been the Director-General of the BBC even for a short period, and in the most challenging of circumstances, has been a great honour.

  "While there is understandable public concern over a number of issues well covered in the media - which I'm confident will be addressed by the Review process - we must not lose sight of the fact that the BBC is full of people of the greatest talent and the highest integrity. That's what will continue to make it the finest broadcaster in the world."

  It is understood that the BBC has already started the process of considering Entwistle's successor as Director General.
  

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  16 Nov 2012

  Warner Bros and IMAX Agree Deal to Screen 20 Films in Next Three Years

  IMAX Corporation and Warner Bros. Pictures, a division of Time Warner Inc., this week announced that they have agreed to release up to 20 Warner Bros. films in the immersive IMAX Experience® over the next three years, in an extension of the core partnership that began in 2003.

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  Upcoming Warner Bros. titles to be released for 2013 include: Jack the Giant Slayer (March 1, 2013); Man of Steel (June 14, 2013); Pacific Rim (July 12, 2013); 300: Rise of an Empire (August 2, 2013); Gravity; Seventh Son (October 18, 2013); The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug (December 13, 2013).

  Dan Fellman, President, Domestic Distribution, Warner Bros. Pictures commented, "Together with IMAX and our exhibitor partners, we have built a unique, incremental distribution platform over the last 10 years. We are excited to continue this tradition and offer these films to audiences in the most premium of moviegoing experiences."

  Veronika Kwan Vandenberg, President, International Distribution, Warner Bros. Pictures said, "The IMAX footprint continues to expand with tremendous success around the world. "We are very pleased to be presenting our 2013 and future slate in this premium theatrical environment."

  Richard L. Gelfond, CEO of IMAX stated, "Our longstanding partnership with Warner Bros. has resulted in extraordinary experiences for IMAX audiences, and we're excited to add these core additional titles to our upcoming film slate. The growing network of IMAX theatres around the globe continues to enable all of our studio partners to deliver their films in a uniquely immersive way, and provide moviegoers with a premium way to experience the biggest movies."

  Greg Foster, Chairman and President of IMAX Filmed Entertainment said, "IMAX continues to have a deep appreciation for the Warner Bros. team and its talented filmmaker collective as well as its comprehensive approach to our industry. We're confident that our continued partnership with Warner Bros. on all levels – pre-production, production, post production, marketing and distribution - will greatly benefit our two companies, our exhibition partners and moviegoers worldwide."

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  09 Nov 2012

  Sky Acquires Rights to NBCU Content and Extends Agreements for Channel Carriage in UK

  Sky has entered a new multi-year licensing agreement with NBCUniversal International Television Distribution for the exclusive television rights in the UK and Ireland to current, upcoming and library feature films from NBCUniversal for its Sky Movies service.

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  All movies will be made available to Sky customers on-demand, on Sky Go, as well as in High Definition (HD) and 3D where available. In addition, Sky has entered a separate agreement with Universal Networks International (UNI) to extend the availability of UNI's television channels on Sky's subscription TV packages.

  Under the terms of the licensing agreement, Sky Movies customers will have an exclusive window of subscription access to NBCUniversal titles after they have ended their run in UK cinemas. As a result, Sky Movies will be the first subscription service in the UK and Ireland to screen Snow White & the Huntsman, Battleship, Ted, The Bourne Legacy, ParaNorman and Savages. Upcoming releases that are also part of the agreement include Anna Karenina, Les Miserables, The Man With The Iron Fists, Despicable Me 2 and About Time.

  Sky customers will also get exclusive subscription access to classic NBCUniversal titles including Jurassic Park, Back to the Future and the American Pie series of films, as well as iconic titles such as Mamma Mia, Gladiator and Scarface.

  All of the movies will be available via 11 dedicated Sky Movies channels, Sky's comprehensive TV on-demand service and Sky Go, the award-winning multiplatform TV service. The full range of titles included in the licensing agreement will also be available to NOW TV customers. NOW TV offers easy and flexible access to Sky Movies across PC, Mac, iPhone, iPad, YouView, Xbox and selected Android smartphones, with films available for instant streaming. Customers who subscribe to Sky Movies via Virgin Media, UPC and TalkTalk will also be able to enjoy the full range of subscription films from the NBCUniversal collection.

  The new channel carriage agreement will enable Sky customers to enjoy popular programming across NBCU's portfolio of channels on Sky, including shows such as Rookie Blue, Law & Order: Special Victims Unit and Cold Case on Universal Channel; Keeping up with the Kardashians, Fashion Police and Chelsea Lately on E! Entertainment Television; and Continuum, Warehouse 13 and Haven on Syfy. Other channels included in the carriage agreement include The Style Network and Movies 24. Sky Media, Sky's advertising and sponsorship sales house, will continue to represent NBCU's channels.

  Ian Lewis, Director of Sky Movies comments: "We are delighted to be able to announce an extension of our long-standing relationship with NBCUniversal. The combination of NBCU's hit movies with Sky's innovation will give customers an unrivalled in-home movies experience. Whether it's The Bourne Legacy on demand, Despicable Me in 3D, or Ted on the go, Sky Movies customers will enjoy the biggest and best selection of movies on their terms - and at least a year ahead of any other subscription service."

  Jon Simkin, Sky's Director of Channels and Operations, adds:""With a growing portfolio of popular shows from established pay TV brands including Universal Channel, E! Entertainment and Syfy, we are investing in more choice and quality for customers. At the same time, we are helping NBCU reach advertisers and sponsors through the on-going relationship with Sky Media."

  Belinda Menendez, President, NBCUniversal International Television Distribution and Universal Networks International, adds: "We are very proud of the NBCUniversal portfolio of titles and channels represented by these two separate agreements. Sky customers will now have access to hit films such as Snow White and the Huntsman, The Bourne Legacy and Ted, in addition to a broad range of high-caliber programming on our bouquet of branded channels." 

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  09 Nov 2012

  Changes to BBC Freelance Contracting Arrangements Announced

  The BBC has this week published a review of its freelance contracting arrangements and announced proposed changes from its previous position of engaging on-air talent on long-term contracts as personal service companies.  These changes are due to come into effect for April 2013. The review was conducted by Deloitte LLP and the BBC's own internal audit department, and covered all on-air and off-air individuals contracted and paid in the financial year 2011/12.

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  The review was commissioned following the Government's Alexander Review of tax paid by senior public appointees and the BBC's appearance before the Public Accounts Committee in July 2012.

  Deloitte and the internal auditors reviewed the BBC's policies, guidelines and correspondence and conducted interviews with key BBC stakeholders and with talent agents. They also carried out a detailed review of a sample of contracts and files, including a line-by-line assessment of 469 existing on-air talent service companies and 335 self-employed freelance talent paid over £50,000 in 2011/12.

  The key findings of the review are:

   • The BBC has a high standard of tax compliance and there is no evidence that the BBC uses personal service companies to aid income tax or National Insurance Contributions avoidance

   • Retaining a freelance model is critical for the success of the BBC, to enable creative renewal for our audiences and deliver value for money

   • However the BBC's current policy for contracting is inconsistent - with on-air talent engaged as staff, self-employed or via a personal service company, often doing very similar work

   • The BBC wishes to address the public perception that off-payroll contracts and in particular personal service companies are used to avoid tax

  As a result the BBC is making a series of changes to its freelance contracting arrangements:

   • The BBC will move away from its previous position of engaging on-air talent on long-term contracts as personal service companies. Instead it will:

   1. Introduce a more objective and specific employment test for any new engagement, and individuals will be offered a staff contract when appropriate.

   2. Work with HMRC to develop new objective criteria for the tax treatment of on-air TV and radio presenters where none currently exists. This will enable the BBC to engage individuals who meet the criteria as self-employed without the risk of misclassification and help to further reduce the number of personal service companies

  The BBC aims to have both of these changes in place by the start of the next financial year, April 2013.

  The BBC will apply the new employment test to 804 freelance on-air talent assessed by Deloitte as a priority for review. This could result in an estimated 131 individuals being offered staff employment when their current contract expires.

  The new test will then be extended to all on-air and off-air talent paid via a personal service company.

  In future, the BBC will only contract via a personal service company when it is absolutely satisfied that an individual should not be on the payroll or self-employed. The expectation is that these situations will be considerably fewer than at present. On those occasions when the BBC will engage via a personal service company, it will provide fuller reporting to HMRC, going further than the Government's Alexander Review recommendations on the level of detail provided; contractual clauses on tax/NIC compliance will also be strengthened.

  The BBC will also improve and strengthen all the BBC's internal contracting processes and data management.

  Zarin Patel, Chief Financial Officer, BBC, said: "Our review shows the BBC is not using personal service companies to avoid tax or help others avoid tax. Nevertheless, it shows inconsistencies in the way our policy has been applied. We are addressing this with a more objective employment test for all new contracts and by developing a new framework with HMRC for self-employed on-air presenters." 

  To read the report in full, please click here.
  

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  08 Nov 2012

  Warner Bros Studios Leavesden Buys De Lane Lea

  Warner Bros. Studios Leavesden (WBSL) has acquired leading UK sound mixing and post-production facility De Lane Lea, which has hosted many of The Production Guild's seminars and networking evenings. The purchase was announced this week by Josh Berger CBE, President and Managing Director, Warner Bros. UK, Ireland and Spain; PG Member, Dan Dark, Senior Vice President and Managing Director, Warner Bros. Studios Leavesden; and Kim Waugh, Senior Vice President, Post-Production Services, Warner Bros. Studio Facilities.

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  In addition to its state-of-the-art production facilities and on-site production rentals offering at Warner Bros. Studios Leavesden, De Lane Lea will allow WBSL to provide a full production service to in-house film and TV productions and external clients, mirroring the offer presented to filmmakers at Warner Bros.' headquarters in Burbank, California.

  A stalwart of the Soho film and TV production community for 65 years, De Lane Lea, which will be renamed Warner Bros. De Lane Lea in the coming weeks, houses three re-recording stages; two ADR stages; 40 picture editing suites; one TV mixing stage; a transfer bay for the digital delivery, conversion and ingestion of picture and sound; a 37 seat screening room; and a client lounge, all in Soho, the preferred central London location for creative professionals.

  De Lane Lea has served as the post-production home of recent movies such as Skyfall, Frankenweenie, Prometheus and Dark Shadows. Warner Bros.' association with the facility stretches as far back as 40 years with its post-production work on John Boorman's 1972 picture, Deliverance. The upcoming Warner Bros. movie Gravity, directed by Alfonso Cuaron and starring George Clooney and Sandra Bullock, is currently being post-produced at De Lane Lea.

  Josh Berger CBE, President and Managing Director, Warner Bros. UK, Ireland and Spain said: "Just five months on from the opening of Warner Bros. Studios Leavesden, this latest acquisition is further evidence of our commitment to the UK film industry and the world-leading Greater London media cluster. Through its many years of operating, De Lane Lea has earned a power-house reputation for servicing tent-pole movies for us and other studios and, as we look to invest in the facility in the coming months and years, this standing can only grow even further."

  Dan Dark, Senior Vice President and Managing Director, Warner Bros. Studios Leavesden, commented, "The exciting combination of our state-of-the-art facilities at Warner Bros. Studios Leavesden in Hertfordshire and those at Warner Bros. De Lane Lea in central London means that we will be able to provide a convenient one-stop shop for all kinds of production needs, both in-house and external clients."

  Kim Waugh, Senior Vice President, Post-Production Services, Warner Bros. Studio Facilities, added, "By owning and operating our own post-production facility in the UK, we're increasing the flexibility and scheduling of our own post-production requirements, as well as those of other studios. De Lane Lea has long been the leader in the UK post-production market and we're confident that its fine traditions and preferred location status will continue to prosper under our new ownership."

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  31 Oct 2012

  Film London Launches 2012/13 Short Film Fund Challenge

  Film London today launches the London Borough Film Fund Challenge 2012/13 (LBFFC), a short film fund for aspiring film-makers, open across the whole of London for the first time. An award-winning grassroots production scheme responsible for kick starting a number of film-making careers, the LBFFC is supported by Creative Skillset and delivered in partnership with seven London Boroughs.

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  The LBFFC includes production funding, alongside mentoring and a training programme for the selected film-making teams. With an open application process, the LBFFC is available to grassroots talent who are resident in London. The London boroughs of Haringey, Islington, Kensington & Chelsea, Lambeth, Redbridge, Southwark and Wandsworth have partnered with Film London to provide additional opportunities to their local residents.

  Adrian Wootton, Chief Executive of Film London & the British Film Commission said, "Film London is committed to discovering and nurturing creative talent and the film-makers of tomorrow. The LBFFC is key to our talent development strategy, offering a grassroots opportunity to aspiring film-makers and has seen much success in starting careers across all levels of film-making, both in front of and behind the camera."

  He continued, "Therefore we are delighted we are now able to extend this successful fund to offer it to all London residents. This is thanks to the ongoing support of Creative Skillset, and also our borough partners whose investment sees increased opportunities for their local residents."

  Dan Simmons, Creative Skillset's Head of Film said: "The LBFFC is an important opportunity for grassroots talent to start developing their film skills in a nurturing, industry environment and experience, perhaps for the first time, the realities and processes of getting a film made and finding an audience. We are delighted to be able to continue supporting this Film London initiative which has produced award-winning films and talent, and empowers film-makers to launch their career in the industry."

  The LBFFC is funded by the Creative Skillset Film Skills Fund as part of 'A Bigger Future 2', the UK film skills strategy.

  Since its launch in 2006 the LBFFC has produced over 160 short films. Many up-and-coming film-makers have used the fund to launch a career in the production industries and several have won prestigious international awards, including best European short film award at the Berlin Film Festival. 

  The application process for LBFFC is now open and for further information or to apply, please visit: http://www.filmlondon.org.uk/boroughfilmfunds.
  

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  31 Oct 2012

  Disney to Buy Lucasfilm for $4.05 Billion with Further Star Wars Films Announced

  The Walt Disney Company has announced an agreement to acquire Lucasfilm Ltd. in a stock and cash transaction. Under the terms of the agreement and based on the closing price of Disney stock on October 26, 2012, the transaction value is $4.05 billion. Disney will pay approximately half of the consideration in cash and issuing approximately 40 million shares at closing. Lucasfilm is 100% owned by Lucasfilm Chairman and Founder, George Lucas.
  

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  Under the deal, Disney will acquire ownership of Lucasfilm, a leader in entertainment, innovation and technology, including its massively popular and Star Wars franchise and its operating businesses in live action film production, consumer products, animation, visual effects, and audio post production.

  A further continuation of Star Wars films has already been announced with Disney scheduling Episode 7 for a 2015 release alongside plans to "grow the franchise well into the future". Jay Rasulo, Senior Executive Vice President and CFO of The Walt Disney Company has since confirmed the company's intention to make a new Star Wars film "every two to three years" following the release of Episode 7.

  Disney will also acquire the substantial portfolio of cutting-edge entertainment technologies that have kept audiences enthralled for many years. Lucasfilm, headquartered in San Francisco, operates under the names Lucasfilm Ltd., LucasArts, Industrial Light & Magic, and Skywalker Sound, and the present intent is for Lucasfilm employees to remain in their current locations.

  Robert A. Iger, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of The Walt Disney Company stated, "Lucasfilm reflects the extraordinary passion, vision, and storytelling of its founder, George Lucas. This transaction combines a world-class portfolio of content including Star Wars, one of the greatest family entertainment franchises of all time, with Disney's unique and unparalleled creativity across multiple platforms, businesses, and markets to generate sustained growth and drive significant long-term value."

  George Lucas, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Lucasfilm commented, "For the past 35 years, one of my greatest pleasures has been to see Star Wars passed from one generation to the next. It's now time for me to pass Star Wars on to a new generation of filmmakers. I've always believed that Star Wars could live beyond me, and I thought it was important to set up the transition during my lifetime."

  He continued, "I'm confident that with Lucasfilm under the leadership of Kathleen Kennedy, and having a new home within the Disney organization, Star Wars will certainly live on and flourish for many generations to come. Disney's reach and experience give Lucasfilm the opportunity to blaze new trails in film, television, interactive media, theme parks, live entertainment, and consumer products."

  Kathleen Kennedy, current Co-Chairman of Lucasfilm, will become President of Lucasfilm, reporting to Walt Disney Studios Chairman Alan Horn. Additionally she will serve as the brand manager for Star Wars, working directly with Disney's global lines of business to build, further integrate, and maximize the value of this global franchise.

  Kennedy will serve as executive producer on new Star Wars feature films, with George Lucas serving as creative consultant.

  The acquisition will also include Disney acquiring the rights to the Indiana Jones franchise and combines two highly compatible family entertainment brands.  Disney commented that it will strengthen the long-standing beneficial relationship between the two companies that already includes successful integration of Star Wars content into Disney theme parks in Anaheim, Orlando, Paris and Tokyo.

  Disney stated that the Star Wars brand offers a virtually limitless universe of characters and stories to drive continued feature film releases and franchise growth over the long term and across its diverse portfolio of businesses including movies, television, consumer products, games and theme parks.

  Star Wars feature films have earned a total of $4.4 billion in global box to date, and continued global demand has made Star Wars one of the world's top product brands, alongside Lucasfilm becoming a leading product licensor in the United States in 2011.

  The Lucasfilm acquisition follows Disney's acquisitions of Pixar and Marvel, which Disney stated, "demonstrated the company's unique ability to fully develop and expand the financial potential of high quality creative content with compelling characters and storytelling through the application of innovative technology and multiplatform distribution on a truly global basis to create maximum value." 

  Disney further stated that, "adding Lucasfilm to Disney's portfolio of world class brands significantly enhances the company's ability to serve consumers with a broad variety of the world's highest-quality content and to create additional long-term value for our shareholders."

  The Boards of Directors of Disney and Lucasfilm have approved the transaction, which is subject to clearance under the Hart-Scott-Rodino Antitrust Improvements Act, certain non-United States merger control regulations, and other customary closing conditions. The agreement has been approved by the sole shareholder of Lucasfilm. 

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  31 Oct 2012

  Inaugural Head of Film and Drama at Channel 4 Named as Tessa Ross

  Channel 4 has announced that Tessa Ross is to take up a newly created role as Head of Film and Drama for the broadcaster. The position has been designed to allow Ross to oversee Channel 4's drama output alongside her current role as Head of FilmFour.

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  As Head of Film and Drama, Ross will continue to oversee an annual production and financing budget of £10 million for FilmFour as well as having editorial responsibility for the channel's expanding drama portfolio. She will report to Channel 4 Director of Television, Kevin Lygo.

  Coinciding with her own appointment, Ross has recruited two new commissioning editors to the Channel 4 drama department. Francis Hopkinson will join Channel 4 in March in a senior commissioning role with special responsibility for commissioning and developing returning drama series, alongside commissioning single dramas and events; and Liza Marshall will join in September, after maternity leave, with a brief to develop drama singles, serials and films. Both commissioners will report directly to Ross.

  Kevin Lygo commented: "Creating this new role seemed obvious as few can match Tessa's passion for and knowledge of both filmmaking and drama. She is taking FilmFour forward in giant leaps and will continue to attract the industry's foremost innovators as well as finding its newest talents. We remain as committed as ever to both areas independently but believe they stand to be creatively enriched by a shared overview."

  Tessa Ross said: "I am delighted to be given the challenge of overseeing both these exciting divisions in what I believe will be a mutually beneficial relationship. I want to continue to make Channel 4 the first stop for Britain's most creative and original drama and film talents. I look forward to finding more entertaining, challenging and groundbreaking stories to tell and know Francis and Liza will both bring great vision, experience and energy to this process. They have exceptionally strong and complementary track records and a genuine passion and instinct for what makes contemporary drama powerful and exciting."

  Hopkinson, who is currently an executive producer at Granada, has extensive experience in drama production. His credits include: Bafta award winning The Cops; Little Bird; The Jury; the BAFTA and RTS nominated Danielle Cable: Eyewitness; and, most recently, the International Emmy award winner, Henry VIII, with Ray Winstone. He has also produced the upcoming ITV drama Planespotting and executive produced Colditz.

  Marshall, who currently works for BBC drama, has a string of recent drama production successes to her name including: The Long Firm, written by Joe Penhall and starring Mark Strong; Eroica, a feature length film about Beethoven for BBC2, starring Ian Hart and a winner of a Prix Italia; Alan Rusbridger and Ronan Bennett's conspiracy thriller Fields of Gold; and, the seven-part series The Sins, written by William Ivory and starring Pete Postlethwaite, which was nominated for three Baftas and won Marshall RTS Best Network Newcomer: Behind the Scenes. She has recently executive produced A Thing Called Love and Dirty War a HBO / BBC film.

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  31 Oct 2012

  St Albans City & District Council Agree New Arrangement with Creative England

  St Albans City & District Council has taken another step to attract film and television productions to shoot in the area, by confirming that it is entering an arrangement to work with Creative England's Location and Production Service.

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  The district is already a popular choice for film and television productions, who value its easy access to London and proximity to Warner Bros. Studios Leavesden and Elstree Studios.

  The new working arrangement gives a clear message to these industries that St Albans values their contribution to the local economy and wants to encourage them to do more work in the area.

  Creative England's Location and Production Services team supports film and television productions looking to shoot outside London. They offer a one-stop-shop service to assist production companies with everything from finding the best locations, working with local authorities to secure permission for filming, and sourcing the best crew and facilities to ensure each shoot runs smoothly.

  Under the new arrangement, Creative England's Locations and Production Services team for the East of England, based at Elstree Studios, will become more proactive in promoting locations in the St Albans area. New properties will be researched, photographed and featured in regular industry newsletters, with the aim of attracting the attention of location and production managers looking for suitable filming sites.

  The city already has an impressive showreel. Its wide array of locations, from the ruins of a Roman theatre to medieval streets and empty warehouses, have attracted a long list of productions including feature films Confetti, Johnny English and Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets, and television series such as Auf Wiedersehen Pet, Foyle's War, The Inspector Lynley Mysteries, Jonathon Creek and Murder Rooms.

  Having a film or television series shooting in the region can be an important source of income as productions can spend up to £30,000 per day on every aspect of filming, including hotels, security and catering.

  St Albans is keen to attract more of this investment into the local economy and this arrangement is the latest move by the Council in a bid to do this. Earlier this year, the District Council became one of several in Hertfordshire to back a Private Members' Bill to make the process of road closures for filming quicker and easier, subject to traffic pressures and the needs of local residents.

  The Council hopes that attracting more film work will also help to generate jobs, boost film tourism and raise the profile of the city on the big screen.

  Councillor Beric Read, Portfolio Holder for Community and Engagement and Localism for St Albans City and District Council, said: "We are pleased to be working with Creative England to help film and TV producers and location managers find suitable locations in the District, We have many great locations for film and TV productions, including medieval streets, beautiful parks and some wonderful historic buildings. Filming brings benefits for the District by boosting the local economy and attracting new visitors who want to see the locations for themselves."

  Hayley Armstrong, Creative England's Production Liaison Manager for the East of England, said: "In 2009/10 location filming was worth an estimated £20 million to Hertfordshire, and with studio space across the county booked for 2013, this trend is set to continue. St Albans has starred on the big and small screen many times over and we invite residents and businesses to consider taking advantage of the economic benefits filming can bring by registering their properties as potential locations on our database, and their skills and businesses on our crew and facilities pages."

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  25 Oct 2012

  IMAX to Expand Number of Screens in UK and Across Europe

  The IMAX Corporation has announced it has signed agreements with three existing exhibition partners to open a total of five IMAX® theatres in new and existing projects across Europe, including England, the Netherlands and Austria. 

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  Odeon & UCI Cinemas Group, the largest operator of IMAX theatres in Europe, the Middle East and Africa, will add an IMAX theatre as part of its new 11-screen multiplex at The MK Dons Stadium in Milton Keynes, UK, due to open in 2014.

  Pathe Theatres, operator of the largest chain of cinemas in the Netherlands, will open three IMAX theatres in existing multiplexes throughout the country, including two in The Hague and Tilburg and a third at a location to be determined at a later date.

  Austrian exhibitor Cineplexx will also expand its IMAX commitment with the addition of a theatre in Vienna at its Donauplex 13 complex.

  Andrew Cripps, President, IMAX EMEA commented, "Europe continues to be a key strategic focus for IMAX and we're delighted that many of our existing exhibition partners are increasing their IMAX business

  He continued, "Today's announcement not only underscores the growth opportunities that exist in the region, which has approximately 450 million consumers, but it's also an endorsement of the confidence exhibitors have in IMAX to deliver audiences a differentiated experience and drive incremental revenue to their multiplexes."

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  25 Oct 2012

  Pinewood Deal with Isle of Man Treasury Authorised with New Director Announced

  Further to the announcement earlier this month relating to the agreement entered into with the Isle of Man Treasury, Pinewood Shepperton plc has announced that they have now received the consents required from the Financial Services Authority for the Agreement to become unconditional. Accordingly the agreement will come into effect today, Thursday 25th October 2012.

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  Pinewood has also announced that Steve Christian, ACA will join the Board as an Executive Director from today, 25th October 2012. Mr. Christian will be responsible for coordinating the investment advice to the Isle of Man Treasury Film and Television Fund.

  Steve Christian (aged 48) has been responsible for overseeing the development of the Isle of Man's film investment programme since 1995 and has recently completed the financing of their 100th film and television project.

  Christian is currently a non executive director of the Isle of Man's largest energy provider The Manx Electricity Authority and is also a director of CinemaNX Limited, Fordex Limited, Agrimark Limited and Gasworks Media Limited. Mr Christian was previously a non executive director of Isle of Man Film Limited.

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  24 Oct 2012

  Tim Davie to Succeed John Smith as CEO of BBC Worldwide

  The BBC has announced that John Smith has decided to step down after eight years as Chief Executive Officer of BBC Worldwide. Tim Davie, currently Director of BBC Audio & Music, has been announced as Smith's successor. 

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  Under Smith's leadership, the BBC's commercial arm has grown into a major global media company, doubling its revenue, growing profits four-fold, almost tripling margins and returning more than £1.3 billion to the BBC.

  Smith, who has helped turn Doctor Who, Top Gear and Dancing With The Stars into global franchises and recently unveiled profits of £155 million in the last financial year, told staff he is leaving the BBC to pursue new opportunities in the commercial sector.

  Following Smith's decision, BBC Director-General George Entwistle announced that Tim Davie, the BBC's Director of Audio & Music, will succeed Smith as CEO of BBC Worldwide from 1 December.

  Smith's tenure has produced remarkable results. BBC Worldwide has become the world's largest owner of TV channels and the largest TV distributor outside of US companies. The channels operation now attracts over 360 million subscribers around the world to its BBC-branded portfolio of channels. He has created new relationships with UK independent TV producers and set up an international production business producing Dancing With The Stars as well as other TV formats. He has brought the website BBC.com into profit one year ahead of schedule and successfully launched the BBC's new commercial Global iPlayer in 16 countries.

  Prior to this, Smith was the BBC's Chief Operating Officer and Finance Director, and is responsible for the transformation of the BBC's property estate, including New Broadcasting House in W1.

  BBC Director-General, George Entwistle, said: "I want to thank John for his enormous contribution to the success of BBC Worldwide in recent years. He has turned the company into a truly global phenomenon delivering a fantastic financial injection into the BBC every year. He leaves the company ideally set up for the future challenges it faces in a digital world."

  On the appointment of Tim Davie, Entwistle added: "Tim has done an excellent job leading the BBC Audio & Music division and has a fantastic vision for the opportunities that lie ahead for BBC Worldwide. Building on John's success Tim will now take the BBC's commercial arm into the next chapter of its development. I am delighted he will be joining the team at this crucial time."

  John Smith said: "It has been a huge privilege to lead this powerful business, owned by the BBC that does so much to supplement the licence fee income and takes the BBC brand to audiences around the world. I am extremely proud of what we have achieved over the last eight years but I am excited to be moving on to new opportunities in the commercial world as our revenue and profits reach record highs."

  Tim Davie said: "BBC Worldwide is an outstanding business that plays a unique role in building the BBC's global reputation and it is an honour to be asked to lead it. John's legacy is a company with a strong performance record, leadership in digital and rising international creative exports. I look forward to leading BBC Worldwide through its next phase of growth, delivering further dividends to the BBC and championing great British content around the world."

  Tim Davie has been the BBC's Director of Audio & Music since 2008, before which he was Director of the BBC's Marketing, Communications & Audiences division from April 2005 and Vice President, Marketing and Franchise, PepsiCo Europe, where he managed business franchises across 10 international markets, as well as overseeing global brand marketing outside North America.

  In his current role he has overall responsibility for BBC Radios 1, 2, 3, 4 and the BBC digital radio stations 1Xtra, 6Music, BBC 4Extra and the Asian Network, as well as overseeing the three BBC orchestras in England, the BBC Singers, the BBC Proms and leading the BBC's music output on television and online.

  Under Tim's leadership, BBC Radio has attracted record numbers of listeners - and helped make UK radio more popular than ever - whilst delivering ambitious, high-quality programming and driving digital innovation. Tim has also been Chairman of Freesat and was a board member for the launch of Freeview.

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  19 Oct 2012

  New Film Training Funding Announced for Organisations from Creative Skillset

  Creative Skillset has launched new funding for organisations involved in training for the film industry. The aim of these new initiatives is to ensure the UK film industry remains cutting edge by developing the skills of junior and professional filmmakers.

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  The new funding comprises of:

  • Craft and technical masterclasses for festivals and conferences
  Supporting masterclasses aimed at craft and technical departments at conferences and festivals

  • VFX 'Bridges to Industry' talent spotting initiative
  A nationwide VFX talent spotting initiative with work experience and opportunities.

  • Business skills for film exhibitors
  Helping independent exhibitors deal with changing technology, commercial pressures and programming choices.

  • 3DS MOT – supporting 3D filmmakers
  Providing consultancy and bespoke training for filmmakers looking to make their first or second 3D film.

  • Business skills for distributors
  Equipping distributors with the latest knowledge and best practice in the UK and internationally.

  • Cable clinic for camera and lighting crew
  Supporting film crew in the understanding of wireless technologies and the use of antennae cables.

  • Skills fusion in schools – nurturing a new generation of talent
  Encouraging collaboration between the film industry and education with a fusion of creative, technological and entrepreneurial skills. 

  If you would like to apply to one of these funds to develop or deliver training, please first check to see if your organisation is eligible by clicking on the links for each scheme above.

  Before making an application please discuss it with Sarah Trigg, Film Partnership Manager, on either 020 7713 9858 or saraht@creativeskillset.org.

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  19 Oct 2012

  42,000 Sq Ft Extension Revealed for Northern Ireland's Titanic Studios

  Northern Ireland's First and Deputy First Ministers have officially launched an £8.3m extension to Titanic Studios at Titanic Quarter. The addition of two new sound stages will establish Titanic Studios as one of the largest and most modern film and television production sets in Europe.

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  The new sound stages provide 42,000 sq ft of additional studio space to complement the existing c.70,000 sq ft already available at Titanic Studios.
  

  The stages have been named in honour of film directors, Brian Desmond Hurst and William MacQuitty, two Belfast men who are widely acclaimed within the movie industry.

  Speaking at today's launch ceremony, David Gavaghan, CEO of Titanic Quarter, said: "Titanic Quarter has become a hub for the creative media sector, propelling Northern Ireland onto the radar of some of the world's largest TV networks and film production companies. Currently home to HBO's Game of Thrones, Titanic Studios is one of the largest fully functioning film studios in Europe and has been the set location for highly-acclaimed movies such as Your Highness and City of Ember.

  "These new sound stages are a most timely addition to our film production landscape as Titanic Quarter seeks to ensure Northern Ireland capitalises fully on the huge global opportunities which exist in this sector. International demand for film set location in Northern Ireland is currently outstripping our resources and it is vital that further investment in 'Hollywood ready' studio space and supporting infrastructure is forthcoming. Northern Ireland has never had a better opportunity to increase its market share within the screen industry."

  The new studios incorporate high performance acoustic fabric, high-level walkways and rigging gantries with power, lighting and internal environment options to suit the full spectrum of film production uses.

  Richard Williams, CEO, Northern Ireland Screen, said: "In 2007 Northern Ireland Screen identified the need for a studio facility in Northern Ireland, which would add value to our overall proposition to promote Northern Ireland to the worldwide production sector. Having taken the lease on the Paint Hall and effectively turning it into a fully-functioning studio, we were able to secure our first large incoming production, 'City of Ember', which was followed up by a feature film from Universal Pictures and a pilot and subsequent series of 'Game of Thrones' from HBO.

  "Tribute must be paid to Titanic Quarter and the Northern Ireland Executive through Invest NI, for recognizing the need for further studio infrastructure to help boost our standing in the global marketplace. The construction of the two new purpose-built stages is a major addition to our portfolio and will further boost Northern Ireland's credentials as a first-class production location."

  Speaking at the launch ceremony, Allan Esler Smith, great-great nephew of Brian Desmond Hurst, said: "Northern Ireland has always had a depth of creative talent, with some of our most famous exports being actors and film-makers who have travelled the world to make movies. It is a source of great pride that we now have these world-class film and television production sets on our doorstep, and it is a great honour for the families of Brian Desmond Hurst and William MacQuitty to have these new studios named after them."

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  19 Oct 2012

  Film Culture Lottery Fund Opens for Applications

  The Film Culture Lottery Fund from PG Business Partner, Creative England opens for applications today with a total of £700,000 available for cinema projects in the English regions. The fund will increase opportunities for audiences to access and enjoy a broad range of film – specialised, mainstream and archive – across England.

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  It is the last time Creative England will be handling the awards as a BFI delegated body for the distribution of National Lottery funds for film culture outside London, as the responsibility for this strand of funding is shortly to transfer to the BFI, as set out in its Film Forever plan earlier this month. The review is part of a wider strategic refocus which will see and enhanced role for Creative England in terms of talent and business development.

  As part of this refocusing of roles agreed between Creative England and the BFI, the cultural elements of Creative England's role – including audience development, film festival support and archive development – will transfer to the BFI from 1 April 2013, along with the Film Culture team and the funding associated with these activities.

  Creative England's Film Culture Fund Lottery awards are designed to support a range of dynamic and creative work in venues, festivals, archives and rural and community cinema schemes outside London. The Fund covers both audience projects, and also offers an organisational development strand, designed to strengthen and build capacity within cinemas, festivals and archives.

  In July, the organisation announced the awards made under its first round of Film Culture funding. 39 projects were supported, including:

   • Encounters Short Film & Animation Festival in Bristol;
   • the Cinema Plus film education group in Norwich;
   • and Lincoln's Media Archive for Central England.

  Applications are now invited from cinemas, film archives, film festivals and other eligible organisations based in the English regions. Awards will range from £2,000 to £40,000.

  Creative England's Head of Film Culture Jay Arnold said: "This is a great opportunity for regional film programming. Through our work over the past year we have encountered some truly inspiring projects and we look forward to supporting a new wave of exciting and dynamic film activity."

  Eddie Berg, the BFI's Director of Partnerships, said: "Creative England is a key delivery partner for the BFI and we welcome this investment into our English delivery partners as we work together to develop The UK Audience Network."

  Applications for the Film Culture Fund can be made online via the Creative England website. The deadline for applications is 30 November 2012.

  Click here to download the Film Culture Fund guidelines and access the online application form.

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  12 Oct 2012

  Creative England funds two new feature films in the West Midlands

  Creative England has made financing commitments to two new feature films based in the West Midlands. The organisation, which supports film, television and digital media production across the English regions, is backing Wrapt Films’ Here & Now and Vicarious Dreams’ Here Comes the Summer.

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  The productions have been awarded funding from the Advantage Media Production Fund (AMPF), which was set up in 2007 by Screen West Midlands and is now managed by Creative England. The AMPF recently supported the BBC crime drama Line of Duty and Penny Woolcock’s feature documentary about Birmingham gang warfare, One Mile Away, which scooped the Michael Powell Award for Best British Feature at this year’s Edinburgh Film Festival.
  
  Here & Now (right) is a lyrical drama set in Herefordshire. Two worlds collide when an inner-city girl and a local boy fall in love; she’s angry that her parents are tearing their marriage apart and he barely speaks. Together they embark on a rural odyssey through the dying days of summer. Here & Now is the first feature from director and producer team Lisle Turner and Martina Klich, whose previous collaborations include the acclaimed short films Canvas and Oxygen. Here & Now is currently shooting in the Wye Valley and is co-produced with Revolution Films.
  
  Here Comes the Summer tells the story of 2-Tone fan Paul, whose dream of becoming a music journalist is jeopardised when an act of revenge escalates into a night of violence. Set in Coventry in the 1980s, it celebrates the subcultures of the mod, punk and ska movements at a time of huge social upheaval. The film is produced by Birmingham-based Vicarious Dreams, with producers Carol Harding (Metrosexuality, Holby City, Doctors), Alan McKenna (The Somnambulists) and Andrea Cornwell (The Last Days on Mars, The Scouting Book for Boys). The film is directed by Ron Scalpello (Offender).
  
  Creative England continues to seek expressions of interest to the Fund for feature films of all genres, to be produced or co-produced by companies based in the West Midlands.
  
  Christopher Moll, Head of Talent at Creative England, said: “The AMPF remains one of the few active English regional film funds in highly challenging times and we’re delighted to be supporting two highly distinctive and personal features from new and upcoming talent. With Line of Duty pulling in a record numbers of viewers for its slot, Penny Woolcock’s success in Edinburgh and Stephen Poliakoff’s Dancing on the Edge still to come in January 2013, Creative England continues to back outstanding content through this Fund.

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  10 Oct 2012

  Paramount Pictures Theme Park for Kent

  A £2bn entertainment resort could be built in north Kent. Developers have been granted a licence from Paramount Pictures to use its name on a resort on the Swanscombe Peninsula, near Dartford.

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  The scheme has been offered "support" by Dartford and Gravesham borough councils.
  The site's developer, London Resort Company Holdings, is now looking for further investment for the project.
  
  It estimates the park, which would be based on a former cement works, would create up to 27,000 jobs.

  The 900-acre brownfield site is next to Ebbsfleet International station, which is 17 minutes from London and two hours from Paris.
  
  Tony Sefton, project leader, said the company hoped to open the site in 2018. He said: "Over the next 12 to 18 months we will be progressing the planning application, while embarking on a wide-reaching programme of community consultation, while securing further commercial agreements with third parties."
  
  In a joint statement, Jeremy Kite, leader of Dartford Borough Council, and John Burden, leader of Gravesham Borough Council, described the development as a "tremendous economic growth opportunity" for the region."We are very keen that local people get the jobs and local suppliers are involved in the process," said Mr Burden.
  
  "We have even looked at the farmers - how can they feed into the process? It is very similar to the Olympics."
  
  The developers said plans also included Europe's "largest" indoor water park, theatres, live music venues and hotels.
  
  Campaign group Demand Regeneration in North Kent said it was as though everyone in north Kent had just won the lottery.
  
  "So long as the plans are fully tailored to the needs of the local community, we could look to the elimination of the pockets of severe deprivation which currently exist throughout north Kent.
  
  "There should also be spare cash to improve transport services, homes and the environment for everyone."

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  10 Oct 2012

  ONSIGHT provides production facilities for the new Epic series of Red Dwarf

  Red Dwarf returns to television with its tenth series, Red Dwarf X. Produced by Grant Naylor Productions, ONSIGHT was awarded the contract for cameras and post.  Writer and Director Doug Naylor of Grant Naylor Productions remarked, “Using ONSIGHT worked really well for us. Their expert ability to provide not only a shoot solution, but also full post production, has allowed us to use top end cameras and post tools on a TV budget.”

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  The sci-fi comedy’s brand new installment sees the classic characters, Rimmer, Lister, Cat and Kryten, back on their ship and facing fresh adventures in deep space.  ONSIGHT created a bespoke 4K workflow, taking into consideration the desired look and special effects, without losing sight of the show’s original premise, together with the tight shooting schedule.

  Filmed around Shepperton Studios, where ONSIGHT’s camera department is based, the team supplied multiple cameras and accessories.  The RED Epic was selected for its 4K resolution, using a mixture of Angenieux Optimo, ARRI Alura Zooms and Ultra Prime lenses.  Andy Martin, Director of Photography, remarked, “The complex lighting arrangement relied on the wide latitude of the Epic cameras to ensure that the lighting contrast was achieved by establishing the mood of the set.  With four cameras and a large amount of kit, ONSIGHT proved to be both big and flexible enough to meet the demands without slowing the shoot down.”

  ONSIGHT’s rental facilities additionally provided Avid offline systems for shared storage, followed by DIT services.  Their on-set DI team archived and transcoded data straight from set, permitting the Director Doug Naylor and the production team to access and check the rushes quickly.  This became particularly critical when combining prerecorded footage and live action performances for a studio audience.  The method was so efficient on live studio evenings that the prerecorded sequences were processed into the edit and later played back on set within 30 minutes. Production could therefore tell the story to the audience in full, while allowing the cast and crew to move swiftly between the different sets.

  Bringing back a live studio audience to Red Dwarf has not been done since 1998, but Executive Producers Doug Naylor and Charles Armitage wanted to go back to the show’s roots.  They knew it would enhance the sense of atmosphere and comedy timing made famous by the original actors back on board, Chris Barrie, Craig Charles, Danny John-Jules and Robert Llewellyn.  In turn, Red Dwarf X was the first episodic multi-camera TV comedy drama to be shot on RED Epic in front of a live studio audience in the UK.

  The offline edit was relocated to ONSIGHT’s Soho facility to continue post production, consisting of multi-platform editing, VFX management, the online and mastering.  ONSIGHT’s creative team of Colourists, VFX and Assistant Effects Editors, used in-house SGO Mistika systems to handle the large amount of data.  Part of ONSIGHT’s 4K package ensured Production was working with high resolution files all the way to output, giving them maximum flexibility when particular segments that were mostly captured live needed to be cut and cropped for visual effect purposes.  The team provided 3D CG for some of the characters’ distinctive sci-fi apparatus and ONSIGHT’s Lead VFX Editor built background imagery such as planets and moons, using both Mistika and NUKE.  Speaking about the grade, DoP Andy Martin adds, “Andy Lee (Colourist) impressed me by immediately grasping the look and giving the show that polish.  I’m really pleased with the end results.”

  Simon Craddock, CEO of ONSIGHT, says, “Taking on such a celebrated television programme was brilliant for the team.  We’re proud to have facilitated Red Dwarf X from shoot to post.  This end-to-end service demonstrates the benefits of working with ONSIGHT, in terms of accountability and our ability to provide a cost effective solution.”

  ONSIGHT delivered HDCAM and SR masters for broadcast, as well as various editing support, grading and mastering for DVDs, trailers and an upcoming behind-the-scenes documentary, supervised by Production Executive Roopesh Parekh.  Red Dwarf X is a 6-part series, starting 4 October, exclusively on Dave for UKTV.

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  10 Oct 2012

  British Film Commission Welcomes Annual Funding Increase

  The British Film Commission (BFC) has welcomed the launch of the BFI’s Future Strategy which outlines an additional £200,000 for the agency, taking its total funding from the BFI per year to £600,000. The BFC also announced three new commercial sponsors: Double Negative, MPC and Working Title Films, joining the list of the agency’s valued commercial industry partners who form its innovative public/private partnership.
  
  

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  The funding from the BFI will enable the BFC to maintain its important activity in the US. The BFC will also further investigate opportunities to attract new business from other territories, which is work being carried out in partnership with UK Trade & Investment (UKTI) as announced in July this year. The current strategic partnership with UKTI provides the BFC with an opportunity to grow inward investment and extend the UK’s international commercial activity through film, as well as maximise the benefits of the proposed TV tax credits if it goes ahead in April 2013.
  
  The BFC is responsible for driving inward investment to the UK through international feature film production. In 2011 inward investment films generated approximately £3.7bn to GDP and £1bn in exchequer revenues, with titles such as Skyfall, The Dark Knight Rises and Prometheus shooting in the UK. In 2012 high profile, inward investment titles shooting in the UK include Maleficent, Fast and the Furious 6, Thor 2 and All you need is Kill.
  
  Double Negative, MPC and Working Title Films join a high calibre list of BFC sponsors – Disney, Framestore, Harbottle & Lewis, Pinewood Studios Group, Saffery Champness and Warner Bros. – who support showcasing the UK to the international industry.
  
  Adrian Wootton, Chief Executive of the British Film Commission and Film London said: “We are delighted the BFI has committed an additional £200,000 to the British Film Commission. This will enable us to drive forward in promoting the UK as the best place in the world to produce films and ensuring the UK is attractive to international investment. In tandem with our partnership with UKTI it allows us to explore new territories and capitalise on the potential TV tax credit, ensuring that inward investment through film production remains a growth industry in the UK, delivering for the economy and creating jobs. We would also like to thank our new sponsors Double Negative, MPC and Working Title Films for their generosity. What better endorsement of the work of the BFC than sponsorship from our commercial partners and I am gratefully for their ongoing support.”
  
  

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  05 Oct 2012

  RSM Tenon Film & TV Unit Acquired by Saffery Champness

  Accountancy firm Saffery Champness today announces the acquisition of the specialist Film & TV Unit of RSM Tenon. The 17-strong team, which includes PG Board Member, John Graydon will join Julian Hedley, who left RSM Tenon to head up Saffery Champness' Sports & Entertainment group in January 2011.

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  This transaction will enable Saffery Champness to build further on their Sports & Entertainment practice; a key work stream and a highly successful part of their business.

  The Film and TV Unit joined Saffery Champness on Monday 1st October and includes, Partners John Graydon and Nigel Burke as well as Stephen Bristow and Moses Nyachae.

  Jonathan Fox, Managing Partner of Saffery Champness commented:

  "Saffery Champness is fast becoming the market leading accountancy practice in the sports and entertainment sector. The addition of leading expertise in the TV and Film sector further cements this key position, but more importantly is good news for the firm as a whole, which has made growth in these sectors a core area of focus in its 2011-14 business plan.

  This will help us to develop a stronger and more rounded offering, and sports and entertainment clients can look forward to a continuation of the same excellent service that they have come to expect from us." 

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  04 Oct 2012

  Pinewood Signs Deal with IOMT for £25m Fund

  Pinewood Shepperton plc has signed an agreement with the Isle of Man Treasury (IOMT) to source and advise on film investment opportunities and to undertake UK distribution activities for its £25m fund. As part of the deal, Pinewood will also monitor and capitalise on UK distribution rights in films and television programmes funded by the IOMT.

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  The IOMT will be advised by Pinewood Film Advisors Limited ("PFA"), a wholly owned subsidiary of the Pinewood Shepperton plc. The initial period of the IOMT Agreement will be five years. The IOMT Agreement is conditional on PFA receiving certain required consents from the Financial Services Authority and Pinewood expects to satisfy such conditions within the next few weeks.

  In addition, the Pinewood notes that Goodweather Investment Management Limited (a member of the Peel Group) has agreed to sell 4,891,582 ordinary shares in the capital of Pinewood to IOMT at a price of 250 pence per share. Completion of the sale of these shares is conditional on the IOMT Agreement completing by 31 October 2012. In connection with its proposed acquisition of shares in Pinewood, IOMT has given an undertaking to Pinewood and N+1 Brewin that it will not acquire any other shares in Pinewood until the expiry of the period ending two years after it acquires the shares, subject to certain exceptions including pursuant to a general offer or scheme of arrangement or to maintain an aggregate holding of 9.9% of Pinewood's issued share capital or at any time with N+1 Brewin's consent.

  Under the terms of the IOMT Agreement, PFA will receive: an annual management fee; fees on film projects that the IOMT invests in; a proportion of the revenues received from the UK distribution rights for films; and a proportion of the revenue received from the existing library of 97 IOMT funded films as a fee for managing the collection of revenues arising from those films.

  The IOMT intends to offer a broad range of film investment including equity finance; UK distribution and 'gap' financing. There are no upper or lower limits on its investments and each project will be considered on a case by case basis.

  On completion of the IOMT Agreement, Steve Christian, the current Chairman of CinemaNX (the previous adviser to the IOMT), together with a core team of four CinemaNX employees will join PFA to provide additional expertise and continuity.

  Pinewood also issued a trading update confirming that film revenues are now largely contracted for the remainder of the financial year. The investment in Pinewood's television facilities was completed on time and within budget and has resulted in further interest in its television offering. Media Park occupancy levels remain high at 96%.

  On 7 September, Pinewood Films announced a further film investment project, Belle, which began shooting on 24 September 2012.

  The consultation on the future expansion of Pinewood Studios continues and an outline planning application will be submitted to the local planning authority, South Bucks District Council, in the autumn.

  Ivan Dunleavy, Chief Executive of Pinewood Shepperton plc said:

  "We are delighted to have successfully concluded discussions with the Isle of Man Treasury. This agreement is a further example of extending the reach of the Pinewood brand and builds on the Company's successful Pinewood Films initiative to play a bigger role in UK independent film and television production. Pinewood is a key part of the UK's film industry which made an economic contribution to the UK economy of £4.6bn in 2011.

  "The Company's unique assets in the UK, together with its film financing and strategic international initiatives, mean that it is well placed to cater for the existing and planned global growth in creative content. Demand for stage capacity at Pinewood continues to rise and as a result the Board has approved an additional 45,000 sq ft studio facility, including a new sound stage, at Pinewood Studios. Pinewood is an expanding global brand, allowing access to premium services around the world". 

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  04 Oct 2012

  BFI Launches Film Forever Strategy

  The BFI is investing almost £500 million in UK film over the next five years to help drive industry growth, build audiences and a vibrant film culture and sow the seeds of the future in a bold new plan announced this week. 

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  Film Forever: Supporting UK Film 2012-2017 outlines the BFI's three key strategic priorities, funded by a combination of Grant in Aid, the BFI's earned income and National Lottery funding, as:

   • Education and audiences – with an annual investment of £44.2m
   • British film and filmmaking with an investment of £32.3m per year
   • Film heritage with an investment of £9.9m per year

  BFI Chair, Greg Dyke said:

  With film industry growth currently outstripping the economy as a whole, we want to invest to ensure continued success. A central part of Film Forever is to nurture business growth and cultural vibrancy across the whole of the UK, with a particular emphasis outside London. This is a real moment for film and a bold long term vision for the sector and I look forward to us from today turning all the discussion into action.

  BFI CEO, Amanda Nevill said:

  Film Forever is founded on a renewed commitment to the future – the future generation of audiences, the future generation of filmmakers and the opportunities presented by digital technologies. We are investing where we think we can most make a difference, where we see potential for creative excellence and where we can be the supportive catalyst for change, innovation, business growth and jobs.

  Film Forever is a comprehensive five year plan from the BFI and headline announcements made today, including a range of new partnerships with Accenture, Aardman, Samsung Smart TV, The Pinewood Group, with its flagship studios in Buckinghamshire, and BAFTA, for:

  Audiences:

   • A real commitment to audiences outside of London with a new UK Audience Network including 8-10 regional hubs
   • Equipping 1000 community venues across the UK
   • Proactively working with BIG Lottery Fund on a joint proposal to build, educate and inspire audiences at community level across the UK
   • A new partnership with Samsung for a Smart TV app giving exclusive BFI content, including behind the scenes at the BFI London Film Festival. This will be the first of a series of initiatives towards a BFIPlayer

  Education:

   • A new film education offer for every 5-19 year old in the UK, with the potential to reach 8.5 million young people, alongside the new youth film Academy network for 16-19 year olds with initial support from new partners Pinewood Studios and BAFTA

  Supporting British Film:

   • More money for the production and development of UK films, rising annually to £24 million by 2017, with new opportunities for filmmakers working in documentary and animation and a greater focus on development
   • A New Talent Network to discover, grow and nurture new voices and stories all over the UK
   • A remodelled P&A (Prints and Advertising) Fund – now the new Distribution Fund – responding to widespread changes within the sector
   • A new International Fund including increased money for the British Film Commission
   • The new BFI Business Development Fund, in partnership with Creative England, strengthens the commitment to industry growth in England by providing seed funding to new businesses
   • A significant commitment to growing skills with a new BFI Film Skills Fund, working in partnership with Creative Skillset and BIS alongside ensuring the UK's world leading film schools are supported with a one-off £5 million in capital funding by 2017

  Film Heritage:

   • Ambitious plans to digitise 10,000 films – the BFI 10K – over the next five years to bring our film heritage to new audiences, and a public vote on which those film should be.

  The plan is the result of 18 months of consultation with the UK and international film industry, cultural organisations, the public and Government, which started with Lord Smith's independent Film Policy Review. The BFI's consultation, garnering almost 1000 official responses, has helped sharpen the BFI's thinking in the areas of skills and infrastructure, international strategy and diversity. The BFI is launching a UK wide road-show to start implementing the plan across the country, throughout November. The road shows are open to everyone to attend and will visit Glasgow, Derry/Londonderry, Salford, Birmingham, Gateshead, Nottingham, Bristol and Cardiff.

  Please click here to download Film Forever.
  

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  28 Sep 2012

  Lionsgate Announces New Five-Year $800 Million Revolving Credit Facility

  Lionsgate has entered into a new five-year, $800 million revolving credit facility with JPMorgan and a syndicate of banks.  It is one of the largest revolving credit facilities raised by an entertainment company in more than a decade. Lionsgate stated that the new facility will help position the Company for continued growth and enables it to capitalise on long-term strategic opportunities and meet long-term financial objectives.

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  JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. served as Administrative Agent with JP Morgan Securities LLC, Barclays Bank Plc, Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith Incorporated and Royal Bank of Canada acting as Co-Syndication Agents, Joint Bookrunners and Joint Lead Arrangers, Wells Fargo Bank serving as Co-Syndication Agent, and SunTrust Bank and Union Bank acting as Co-Documentation Agents. The new facility replaces Lionsgate's previous $340 million revolving credit facility.

  David Shaheen, Managing Director and head of JPMorgan's Entertainment Industries Group commented, "The size of the new facility is a testament to the Company's strong relationships with the financing community and the value of its franchises and filmed entertainment library, and it reflects the significant recent expansion of the Company's borrowing base. This new facility will be an important resource in helping Lionsgate to continue executing its long-term growth plan."

  Lionsgate acquired Summit Entertainment in January 2012 and launched the first film of THE HUNGER GAMES franchise, which became the 13th highest-grossing North American release of all time, in March 2012. The Company will release Summit's THE TWILIGHT SAGA: BREAKING DAWN – PART 2 on November 16, 2012 and the next instalment of THE HUNGER GAMES franchise, THE HUNGER GAMES: CATCHING FIRE, on November 22, 2013.

  The new facility was orchestrated for Lionsgate by Vice Chairman Michael Burns, Executive Vice President Corporate Development Brian Goldsmith, General Counsel and Executive Vice President Corporate Operations Wayne Levin and Chief Financial Officer Jim Keegan. Lionsgate was represented by the law firms O'Melveny & Myers LLP and Heenan Blaikie LLP. 

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  28 Sep 2012

  BBC Reveals Three New Controllers including Drama, Film and Acquisitions

  Following BBC Vision's announcement to maximise on-screen spend by creating a single integrated business function across Production and Commissioning, Commercial Director Bal Samra today confirms three new Controllers of Business for Drama, Film and Acquisitions; Comedy and Entertainment; Knowledge and Daytime, and the Controller of Legal and Business Affairs.

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  Bal Samra said: "By creating one single operational spine for each of the genre groups and a more strategically focussed, smaller central team, we will reduce duplication and minimise internal transaction costs. I want to create a more effective business model that works today and is fit for the future, which supports commissioners and producers alike and which delivers to our ultimate aim of putting as much money back into content as possible.

  "Through these appointments, together with the changes in the way we work, the savings will enable us to deliver the additional investment announced earlier in the year of at least £27m for 2013/14."

  The Controllers of Business will be responsible for all the key business functions within their genre. Drawing together slate management, business affairs, commercial, talent rights and production management, they will work alongside the editorial Commissioning and Production Genre Controllers, aiming to improve collaboration and driving best value from the in-house guarantee and provide a better service to indie suppliers too. These are significant roles and critical to the success of the Vision Change plan.

  The four appointments are:

  Nick Betts – Controller of Business, Drama, Films and Acquisitions

  Currently Head of Commercial and Business Development for BBC Vision, Nick is brilliantly placed to support Drama, BBC Films and Acquisitions in this new role. Prior to joining Vision, Nick was Managing Director, NBC Universal Global Channels, where he was responsible for all Northern Europe. Nick was also the Commercial Director at UKTV, responsible for overseeing the brand and the growth of its channels. He is enormously respected across the business and brings with him a wealth of knowledge and commercial expertise.

  Lisa Opie – Controller of Business, Knowledge and Daytime

  Lisa is currently the Managing Director of Twofour Digital, where she leads a team of content producers, web developers and account directors across centres in the UK and the USA. She has also held the position of Director of Branded Business for the Twofour Group. Prior to joining Twofour, Lisa ran her own consultancy, was Managing Director Content at Channel 5, and at Flextech Television where she was the Managing Director of the channels business. I'm delighted that Lisa will be joining the BBC in this new role and know that she will be a tremendous asset to the Knowledge and Daytime Genre team.

  Tamara Howe – Controller of Business, Comedy and Entertainment

  Tamara is currently Controller Production Operations, BBC Vision, and, alongside Liam Keelan, has been leading the Vision Change programme. Prior to joining Vision, Tamara was based in Salford as Chief Operating Officer for BBC Children's and was responsible for overseeing the department's move to MediaCityUK. Before joining the BBC as Head of Production and Finance for Current Affairs, Tamara was Director of Production at Granada. Those of you who have worked alongside Tamara know that she has boundless energy and drive and a determination to find the right solutions to difficult challenges.

  Roger Leatham – Controller of Legal and Business Affairs

  In this new pan-BBC role, Roger will be responsible for leading the engagement with the BBC's rights partners and talent unions and be accountable for legal and business affairs standards across Rights & Business Affairs. Currently the Head of Talent and Rights Negotiation, Roger has worked across all the output divisions of the BBC, as well as BBC America. He brings a wealth of experience to the role, having previously worked in entertainment commissioning as Head of Operations, and before that at Channel 4 and ITV where he was Controller of Rights and Business Affairs. 

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  28 Sep 2012

  UK and Brazil Sign New Film Co-Production Treaty

  The UK and Brazilian Governments today signed a co-production treaty, the terms of which were negotiated by the BFI, the UK's lead organisation for film and ANCINE, the National Cinema Agency of Brazil. The treaty was signed in Brasilia by Lord Green of Hurstpierpoint on Thursday 27th September. Lord Green is travelling as part of the wider delegation currently with British Prime Minister David Cameron in Brazil. The treaty is expected to take two years to come into force.

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  Film and TV productions that qualify under the terms of the treaty will be able to access the benefits of national status in each country. In Brazil these include tax incentives, all federal public funds and access to favourable TV terms, while in the UK qualifying productions will be able to access the UK's Film Tax Relief and apply to the BFI Film Fund, the UK's public film fund with a current allocation of £18 million per year to invest in the development, production and completion of feature films. This is set to increase to £24 million by 2017 when the BFI launches its five year plan for film in October.

  Today's announcement follows a number of initiatives to foster greater creative collaboration between the UK and Brazil. The most recent example came at the Rio Content Market in March 2012, where PACT and the ABPITV, the trade bodies representing independent producers in the UK and Brazil respectively, signed an agreement to promote closer ties between the independent production sectors in both countries.

  UK Culture Minister Ed Vaizey said: "I'm delighted that the UK has strengthened its partnership with Brazil with this film co-production treaty. The treaty will bring huge benefits to both countries and builds on the strong collaborative relationship across the creative industries that already exists between us."

  Amanda Nevill, Chief Executive of the BFI, said: The UK and Brazil have a history of working together in film and a formal co‐production treaty is a natural next step. Film has an important role to play in driving economic growth in the UK and this treaty helps us strengthen those ties with Brazil. We will be working closely with ANCINE to bring filmmakers in both countries closer together to generate real gain and advantage."

  Manoel Rangel, Director-President of ANCINE, added: The opportunity to make it easier for our producers to work in closer contact with their British counterparts represents an important step in the consolidation of the Brazilian audiovisual sector as one of the most active and dynamic in its region and the world. We are hoping that this agreement will lead to much future collaboration in the field of film and TV production, in which both Brazilian and British producers are known for their expertise and unique creativity.

  Further cultural collaboration between the UK and Brazil will come later in 2012 with the British Council's Transform event, a cultural programme of cross arts and transformative arts activity spanning the four years between London and Rio Olympic Games. Transform kicks off at the Rio International Film Festival in October 2012 with a retrospective of the works of Brazilian director, Alberto Cavalcanti, from the BFI National Archive and a high profile screening of legendary British director Alfred Hitchcock's The Pleasure Garden at an outdoor gala on the Copacabana Beach. The film has been meticulously restored by the BFI as part of its Genius of Hitchcock summer blockbuster project, and will be screened in Brazil accompanied by live music performed by the Brazilian Youth Orchestra from a score composed by British composer, Daniel Patrick Cohen.

  For more information about the UK's nine existing bi-lateral co-production agreements, please click here.

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  28 Sep 2012

  Yorkshire Signs Creative England's Film Friendly Charter

  Feature films and television shows will now find Yorkshire an even better place in which to film as it becomes the latest English county to sign PG Business Partner, Creative England's innovative Film Friendly Charter. The signing of the Charter at York Minster gives a clear sign to film and TV production companies that Yorkshire values the contribution their industries make to the local economy and wants them to do more work in the area.

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  Yorkshire is the eighth county to sign a Film Friendly Charter alongside Creative England, the national agency which supports film and television productions shooting outside London, and promotes the English regions as a fantastic place to film.

  The new Film Friendly Partnership for Yorkshire comprises 19 separate councils from Richmondshire in the north to Sheffield in the south, taking in the East Riding, and Leeds and Bradford in the west; along with tourism organisations Welcome to Yorkshire, Visit Hull & East Yorkshire and Visit York, and Bradford City of Film. The charter was countersigned by Chris Hordley, Creative England's Production Liaison Manager for Yorkshire.

  By signing up to the charter, the relevant bodies in each county are setting out in writing an agreement about how they will support the film industry and encourage filmmakers to choose their area for location filming.

  The signing comes as Yorkshire's stunning locations were enjoyed by millions each week in Edwardian costume drama Parade's End on BBC2, featuring Duncombe Park in Ryedale, North Yorkshire, as well as the North Yorkshire Moors National Park.

  Room at the Top starring Maxine Peake and Matthew McNulty (left) began this week on BBC Four. Shot in Leeds, Halifax and Bradford, the adaptation of John Braine's novel follows a young man on the make in 1940s Yorkshire.

  Room at the Top Location Manager Mark Gladwin said: "Yorkshire has an excellent range of period locations so we were spoilt for choice with A Room at the Top. Support from local councils is vital to the smooth running of a film shoot. The signing of the Film Friendly Partnership is fantastic news. It puts Yorkshire firmly on the map as a centre for production. I look forward to filming in Yorkshire again soon."

  Chris Hordley, Creative England's Production Liaison Manager for Yorkshire, added: "The signing of the charter sends out a confident message to the filming industry underlining Yorkshire's business ready status. The Film Friendly Partnership is already up and running, which means the systems are in place to make the filming process smooth, easy and efficient for film and TV productions. Industry keeps coming back for more in Yorkshire and we are working hard to keep it that way."

  The county has previously attracted productions for both the big and small screens, including feature films The Woman In Black (Yorkshire Dales National Park), Harry Potter And The Deathly Hallows Part I (Malham Cove, Craven), Four Lions (Sheffield and South Yorkshire) and This Is England (Sheffield and South Yorkshire), as well as TV dramas Monroe (Leeds), The Syndicate (Leeds, Bradford, Harrogate) and Prisoners' Wives (Sheffield, Doncaster and Bansley)

  Two of the television dramas, Rollem Productions' The Syndicate and Tiger Aspect's Prisoners' Wives, are set to return to Yorkshire to start shooting on their second series within the coming few weeks. 

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  28 Sep 2012

  Peaky Blinders Revealed as First Production to Receive Support from Yorkshire Content Fund

  Screen Yorkshire has announced the first major project to shoot in Yorkshire due to investment from the new Yorkshire Content Fund. Peaky Blinders is an epic gangster family saga that is a six-part BBC2 commission, staring Cillian Murphy and Sam Neill. It will film throughout Yorkshire for eight weeks this autumn. The Yorkshire Content Fund will invest £7.5m of European Regional Development Funding into TV, film, games and digital which will significantly increase jobs and inward investment in the region. 

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  Peaky Blinders boasts a distinguished cast that includes Cillian Murphy (Inception, The Wind That Shakes The Barley, 28 Days Later), Sam Neill (The Tudors, The Piano, Jurassic Park), Helen McCrory (Hugo, Harry Potter, The Queen), Annabelle Wallis (Snow White and the Huntsman, The Tudors), Iddo Goldberg (Secret Diary of a Call Girl) and Charlie Creed-Miles (Nil By Mouth, Wild Bill). It is created by acclaimed writer Steven Knight (Dirty Pretty Things and Eastern Promises) and is produced by Caryn Mandabach Productions (Roseanne, Nurse Jackie and The Cosby Show) and Tiger Aspect Productions.

  Screen Yorkshire launched its new fund in February and has been negotiating on a slate of investments, with a value of several million pounds, which will be announced shortly. Sally Joynson, Chief Executive of Screen Yorkshire, said: "Peaky Blinders is the first project to receive investment from the Yorkshire Content Fund and what a project it is. It is the type of production we are looking to attract to Yorkshire - big budget, epic storyline and with immense talent involved across the project. Peaky Blinders shows how our new fund is attracting productions of scale to the region."

  The story begins in 1919 in the lawless slum neighbourhoods of post war Birmingham. Returning soldiers, newly-minted revolutionaries and criminal gangs all fight for survival in an industrial landscape gripped by economic upheaval. Guns smuggled home from the trenches find their way onto the streets and become lethal currency. Communists don't just dream of revolution - they are planning for it and the Government is expecting it. As Churchill mobilizes his Special Branch forces, illegal bookmakers make fortunes in speak-easy betting shops and traumatised infantrymen drink away their shell-shock in riotous ale houses.

  There is still a gentler city at the fringes, where gypsies and canal boatmen deal horses and tell fortunes but sitting at the top of this industrial jungle are the extended Shelby family, whose many brothers and sisters, cousins and uncles, make up the fiercest gang of all, the 'Peaky Blinders'. Named for their practise of sewing razor blades into the peaks of their caps, the Peaky Blinders make their money from off track betting, protection and robbery.

  Their boss Tommy Shelby (Murphy) is the most ruthless brother of them all, but his leadership is about to be put to the test. A ruthless new Police Chief C.I. Campbell (Neill) arrives in town from Belfast to clean up the city and, perhaps more lethally, a beautiful woman Grace Burgess (Wallis) arrives in the neighbourhood with a mysterious past and a dangerous secret. McCrory plays Aunt Polly Gray, the Shelby family matriarch.

  This is the first TV drama by series creator Steven Knight (Dirty Pretty Things and Eastern Promises) who says:

  "The story I want to tell is based on family legend and historical fact. It is a fiction woven into a factual landscape which is breathtakingly dramatic and cinematic, but which for very English reasons has been consigned to historical text books."

  Executive Producer and Chief Executive, Caryn Mandabach Productions, Caryn Mandabach says:

  "Speaking on behalf of all the producers who are fortunate enough to be associated with this ground breaking work, we couldn't be more honoured or more lucky to be supporting Steven's vision. This is television at its best."

  Controller BBC Drama Commissioning, Ben Stephenson, says:

  "Building on BBC2's reputation for world-class drama, Peaky Blinders is a phenomenally authored drama series shedding light on a piece of hidden British history. Authentic, bloody and utterly compelling, Peaky Blinders welcomes Steven Knight and Otto Bathurst to BBC2 and adds another boldly crafted drama to our roster of upcoming shows." 

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  27 Sep 2012

  Tickets Now Available for Exclusive Screenings and Events as Made in 3 Mills Film Festival Launched

  The brand new Made in 3 Mills Film Festival has been launched by PG Affiliate, 3 Mills Studios, celebrating the studio's archive with exclusive film screenings, parties, set tours, creative workshops and talks from the people behind the films. The festival will take place from 4th to 7th October 2012. Tickets are priced at £8 adults / £5 children (under 16) except for Supperclub: Brick Lane which is £15 (including dinner).

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  In an area of London that has been under intense spotlight all summer, Made in 3 Mills Film Festival presents a four-day programme of screenings, talks and workshops to celebrate the extraordinary legacy of London's film-industry, thriving just a stone's throw from the Olympic Park. The success of 3 Mills Studios continues as Tim Burton's animation Frankenweenie, made at the Studios, has been selected as the gala opening screening for the BFI's 56th London Film Festival.

  Produced collaboratively between neighbours, Sugarhouse Studios and 3 Mills Studios, the festival will showcase feature films shot at 3 Mills Studios and on location around the east end of London, as well as shorts and TV shows from the capital. The screenings and events will take place in three Stratford locations.

  Animation and sound engineering workshops, director Q&As and panel discussions will compliment specific screenings and visitors will be treated to a unique opportunity to watch some of Britain's most exciting films of the last decade, screened in the very place they were made.

   • Enjoy a drink in the prison set used in ill Manors Find out how animators brought Frankenweenie, Fantastic Mr Fox and The Corpse Bride to life
   • Discover how film sound effects are made, before watching a terrifying example of life imitating art in Berberian Sound Studio
   • Indulge in authentic Bangladeshi cuisine before watching Brick Lane
   • Short films selected by London Short Film Festival will precede each feature film

  Programme includes:

   • Danny Boyle's Sunshine
   • Ill Manors – plus prison set visit
   • Tim Burton's Corpse Bride + FREE puppet-making workshop
   • Fantastic Mr Fox + FREE animation workshop
   • Berberian Sound Studio + FREE foley sound effects workshop
   • The Arbor + panel discussion
   • Brick Lane Supperclub with Q&A

  For further information and to buy tickets, please visit: www.madein3mills.co.uk

  Made in 3 Mills Film Festival is a collaboration between Sugarhouse Studios and 3 Mills Studios and kindly supported by East Village London.

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  27 Sep 2012

  Creative England and Northern Film & Media Networking Event in Newcastle

  Registration is now open for the Crew and Facilities Get Together from PG Business Partner, Creative England, in partnership with Northern Film & Media.  The event will take place on Thursday 18 October at Newcastle's, Living Room between 6-9pm.

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  At the event you can:

   • Find out more about Creative England's new crew and facilities database for the English regions, how it will work alongside Northern Film & Media's existing database, and how you can benefit from both.

   • Meet fellow crew, facilities and production professionals from film, TV and digital media.

   • Chat to representatives from Creative England and Northern Film & Media about the work they are doing in your area and how they can help you.

  Whether you are freelance crew, a facility, independent production company, broadcaster or student looking for work in the production sector, everyone is welcome for the chance to network with their peers.

  To register, please click here.

  If your company or facility house would be interested in sponsoring a future Creative England national crew night, please contact Nicky Ball, Crew & Facilities Manager (National) nicky.ball@creativeengland.co.uk / 07887 813 441.

  This event is sponsored by Brookson.

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  21 Sep 2012

  UK Film Contribution to UK GDP Increases to £4.6 billion and Supports 117,400 Jobs

  UK film contributes over £4.6 billion to the UK GDP and more than £1.3 billion to the Exchequer according to a new independent report published by Oxford Economics. Titled, 'The Economic Impact of the UK Film Industry in 2011', the report was commissioned by the BFI and Pinewood Shepperton plc, with support from the British Film Commission and Creative England and demonstrates that despite the on-going recession the UK film industry is thriving.
  

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  With a significant upward trajectory over the last 20 years, the overall picture for the UK film industry is of continued long-term growth. Growth outstrips the UK economy as a whole; there is significant and continued investment in infrastructure and the number of jobs is rising, all of which are made possible by robust support from Government.

  In response to the report, Creative Industries Minister Ed Vaizey said, "This report clearly highlights the huge contribution that the UK film industry makes to long-term economic growth. The UK's successes at the BAFTA and Academy Awards celebrate the wonderful creative talents and accomplishments of UK film, but this report reminds us of the crucial role the industry plays in job creation, tourism, inward investment and the promotion of all that is great about Britain."

  Amanda Nevill, CEO, BFI commented, "Film GB has really gone for gold, achieving creative excellence and significant positive economic impact. This comprehensive report shows, without a shadow of a doubt, that film is an industry driving growth in the UK's economy. It's a story of great British talent and sustained investment really paying off."

  Ivan Dunleavy, Chief Executive, Pinewood Shepperton plc stated, "Once again Oxford Economics has produced an outstanding report which gives us strong evidence to demonstrate just how important the film industry is to the UK. The trends show that we're performing well, relative to today's economic climate. We can do more though. We now need to look at how to enable further investment in infrastructure and how to build on the UK's growing international reputation to boost exports. By making gains in these areas film can provide more jobs and help play our part in bringing growth to the UK economy."

  The report, updated every two years, examines in over 100 pages the specific ways in which the film industry contributes to the UK economy including:

  Jobs and skills
  The number of jobs has risen with the UK film industry, directly employing almost 44,000 people (up from 36,000 in 2009) and supporting 117,000 direct and indirect jobs overall (up from 100,000 in 2009). The UK film industry employs more people than both the fund management and pharmaceutical manufacturing sectors with 70% of the workforce graduates and, at £32,500, earning a significantly higher than average salary. The reputation of the UK film sector worldwide is particularly strong, from traditional skills such as acting, scriptwriting and production through to visual effects and music.

  Exports
  UK film industry exports in 2010 were £2.1 billion whilst the average net trade contribution (trade surplus) since 2000 has been £380 million. This shows a strong increase over the last decade with the UK film industry successfully competing in the global market and making a significant contribution to the net UK trade position through export earnings and promoting the UK abroad.

  Exporters of other goods and services also benefit from the part film plays in establishing and reinforcing Britain's image and brand. This is helped by around a quarter of the top worldwide films being premiered or co-premiered in the UK, which generates substantial media exposure.

  Tourism
  The report shows that films depicting the UK, for example Jane Eyre, are responsible for generating around a tenth of overseas tourism revenues, estimating that around £2.1 billion of visitor spend a year is attributable to UK film, which in turn contributes around £1 billion to UK GDP and £230 million to the Exchequer. The opening of major tourist attractions such as the Warner Bros. Making of Harry Potter Tour demonstrates the value of film to the economy.

  Inward investment
  Production spend on inward investment accounted for 80% of total UK production spend in 2011 with record levels of inward investment contributing £3.7 billion to UK GDP and £1 billion to Exchequer revenues. The UK is a gateway to Europe for international filmmakers.

  Growth is also driven by major studio investments, for example the cumulative investment by Pinewood of £63 million since 2007, and is expected to increase in forthcoming years with Pinewood proposing a major development scheme to extend studio capacity and the £100 million investment by Warner Bros. at Leavesden.

  Promoting British culture
  The core UK film industry contributes substantially to the cultural life of the UK and UK films are a means of expressing British identity. UK audiences like UK films - they on average earn 30% more box office revenue at domestic cinemas. The report calculates on this basis that UK films have boosted box office by on average £69 million a year since 2000.

  Merchandising
  Sales of UK films on DVD and Blu-ray, film rentals, film on VoD, soundtrack CDs, and related computer video games, as well as merchandising related to film, contributed an estimated £239 million to UK GDP and £108 million to the Exchequer.

  New technologies
  New technologies will continue to transform the way film is consumed and the report predicts that due to the rapid growth of Video-on-Demand the global market for VOD could reach $18 billion by 2016.

  The report also underlines how vital the Film Tax Relief is to sustaining the global competitiveness of film production in the UK, estimating production would be around 71% smaller without it The Film Tax Relief not only provides fiscal stability but has also helped promote the UK as a highly attractive inward investment location for film production. With the Film Tax Relief costing HM Treasury around £114 million a year, this means it generates about £12 in GDP for every £1 invested. Without it, national GDP would be reduced by approximately £1.4 billion a year and Exchequer revenues by £430 million a year.

  Caroline Norbury, CEO, Creative England said, "This report is a valuable marker for Creative England and others in our industry to be able to benchmark where we are and what we need to focus on for the continued success of the UK's film industry. What is particularly interesting in this report is how together the film, TV and Games industries are ensuring the UK remains a centre for innovation; retaining its competitive edge."

  Adrian Wootton, Chief Executive of Film London and the British Film Commission commented, "The UK film industry has proved itself to be vital to the economy and that is something which should be celebrated, and of which we should be very proud. As home to some of the world's most sought-after film-making talent, first class infrastructure and facilities, and competitive tax relief, the UK industry looks set to continue this success in the years ahead. With such a variety of films choosing to shoot in the UK I am delighted that the report demonstrates not only the value in terms of production spend on inward investment, but also the huge revenue generated by film tourism as a result of the UK being depicted on screens across the globe."

  Please click here to read the report in full.
  

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  21 Sep 2012

  New Bookings Manager Named at 3 Mills Studios

  PG Affiliate, 3 Mills Studios has appointed Mel Nortcliffe as Bookings Manager. Mel joins with a background as a long standing and highly regarded 1st Assistant Director, bringing with her a wealth of experience from across the entertainment industries.

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  Mel worked in Theatre Stage Management for ten years before transferring her skills to film and television. Her credits as a 1st Assistant Director include Strike Back (Sky / HBO), Silent Witness, Waking the Dead, Little Britain, League of Gentlemen, The Royle Family (BBC) and Bouquet of Barbed Wire (ITV).

  Derek Watts, Studio Executive at 3 Mills Studio, said, "We are really excited to welcome Mel into the team. Her experience as a 1st AD is invaluable and her background from the production side of the industry will help us to improve our client offering. The Studios are going through such a strong period at the moment, having just hosted the Olympic and Paralympic Ceremonies teams and now Tim Burton's Frankenweenie will open the 56th London Film Festival. It is a great time for Mel to join."

  3 Mills Studios has continued to develop its reputation as a discreet destination for creative artists and productions as it hosted the planning, preparation, auditions and rehearsals for the opening and closing ceremonies of the London 2012 Olympic Games. Under the artistic hand of the Oscar-winning film director Danny Boyle, the 2012 Opening Ceremony garnered near universal acclaim as one of the most inventive, exciting and impressive opening ceremonies in the history of the Olympic Games. 

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  21 Sep 2012

  BBC Reveal Major Management Changes as George Entwistle Takes Over as Director-General

  New BBC Director-General, George Entwistle has announced major changes to the management structure at the BBC, during his first statement to BBC staff.  The changes include a scaling down of the BBC Direction Group to a smaller Management Board, the creation of a new Finance and Business Division and the departure of the BBC's COO and CFO.  Entwistle stated that he would put outstanding, world class creativity at the heart of the broadcaster.

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  Unveiling his plans a day after taking over as Director-General, Entwistle asked everyone in the BBC to challenge themselves to deliver more creative and distinctive output for licence fee payers.

  The management restructure will see a new Management Board of 12 members, which replaces the 25-strong BBC Direction Group.

  It was also confirmed that the Finance and Operations divisions will see changes, with immediate effect.  This includes the amalgamation of the operational and finance functions of the organisation within a new Finance and Business Division under the Chief Financial Officer.

  Other key management changes include, the Director of BBC People being restored to the Executive Board, Caroline Thomson (COO) leaving the BBC in September and Zarin Patel (Chief Financial Officer, BBC and Non-Executive Director, BBC Worldwide) announcing her intention to leave the BBC although she will lead the new administrative and support division in interim.

  Entwistle stated that the management changes will aim to turn the BBC into "a more creative organisation, led and managed in a radically simplified way."

  Entwistle continued, "I intend to change the way we're led to put the emphasis where it belongs – on creative people doing creative things; on our audiences and the exceptional quality of work they deserve."

  Speaking from the studio in New Broadcasting House where Newsnight and the Andrew Marr Show recently began broadcasting, the new Director-General said he was privileged to have been asked to lead the finest broadcasting organisation in the world.

  Citing the London 2012 Olympics as an example of how good the BBC can be when everyone pulls together to deliver outstanding coverage, he asked staff to use this as a template for all their work.

  But he challenged the BBC to meet the audience's ever-increasing expectations, commenting, "though our best is often brilliant – in some of our output, we do settle for less than we should. So I believe we owe our audiences a determined effort to raise the creative quality of what we do."

  Speaking to staff in the studio and on the BBC's internal video channel, he said: "I want to make a promise – to listen to you and to work tirelessly on fixing the things that get in the way of high creative quality, making the BBC a place where you really can do your best, and deliver the best of British creativity to our audiences."

  Announcing plans to reduce the management board from 25 to just 12, Entwistle also announced the closure of the Operations division.

  "With immediate effect, I'm reorganising the BBC to group all the operational and finance functions in one business division under the Chief Financial Officer."

  Entwistle said his focus on creativity could not be in isolation of the BBC's financial challenges, but savings could not just be imposed from the centre. Instead, front-line content makers also needed to be responsible for cost savings – incentivised by allowing them to reinvest some of the savings in better funded output.

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  21 Sep 2012

  Cross-Media Forum at BFI London Film Festival Now Booking

  Power to the Pixel's 6th annual Cross-Media Forum, held in association with the 56th BFI London Film Festival, will hear from several leading international digital experts and award-winning creatives working across film, TV, advertising, publishing, interactive and games from around the world. It will take place at NFT1, BFI Southbank from 16th to 19th October 2012 and booking is now open.
  

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  16 October - Conference

  Line-up includes Sean Stewart (USA), lead writer and founder of Emmy-nominated Fourth Wall Studios; interactive film maker and producer for Caviar Films Peter De Maegd (BEL); NFB Canada's Head of Digital Content & Strategy whose multi-award-winning projects include Bear 71, Loc Dao (CAN) who will showcase the company's latest interactive projects; digital rights and licensing expert, Wendy Bernfeld (NETH) (Former CEO at Canal + International Acquisitions) who will discuss new digital licensing opportunities.

  17 October - The Pixel Pitch competition

  Part of PttP’s Pixel Market - the only event in the world dedicated to financing cross-media projects - The Pixel Pitch is an opportunity to find out what kinds of projects commissioners and top-level executives are looking to fund, and how best to approach them.

  Eight trailblazing teams will pitch their ideas to an auspicious jury, competing for the £6,000 ARTE Pixel Pitch Prize.

  This year’s jury panel includes head of Channel 4’s multi-platform commissioning team Louise Brown (UK); Nick Cohen (UK), managing partner & head of MediaCom Beyond Advertising; McCann Erickson’s chief insights and innovation officer Wayne Fletcher (USA/UK); senior production and development executive for the BFI Film Fund, Lizzie Francke (UK); director of digital initiatives at the Tribeca Film Institute, Ingrid Kopp (USA); head of web, new writing & transmedia at France Télévisions, Boris Razon (FR); director of Wallimage CrossMedia & chairman of Cine-Regio, Philippe Reynaert (BEL).

  The jury will give direct feedback to contestants, offering the audience an opportunity to find out what ideas turn them on and the kinds of partnerships they’re looking to form in the future.

  Click Here to view the full list of speakers:
  

  Click Here for Tickets and Registration:

  For more info contact: info@powertothepixel.com; +44 (0)20 7535 6720.

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  14 Sep 2012

  Film London Reports on UK at the Toronto International Film Festival

  Film London and Film Export UK teamed up to deliver a dedicated UK Film Centre at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) this year, with funding from UK Trade & Investment and the BFI alongside a range of partners from across the UK.

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  The Centre, aimed at generating business with international markets and investors, and promoting UK films and talent at this year's TIFF, included representation from the British Film Commission, the British Council, the BFI, Creative England, Creative Scotland, Film London, and Northern Ireland Screen, all in Toronto to promote the very best of the whole of the UK industry, including locations, facilities, talent and funding opportunities.

  Adrian Wootton, CEO of Film London and the British Film Commission said, "This is the second year Film London has partnered with Film Export UK to ensure the UK has a valuable and meaningful presence at the Toronto International Film Festival. The significance of Toronto in the international film calendar - both in terms of its film programme and as a place to do business - is steadily growing so it is important that our UK agencies, sales companies and producers continue to collaborate to deliver the Toronto UK Film Centre which gives the international film community a centralised point to do business with the British while in Toronto."

  Meanwhile the British Film Commission, with the BFI, hosted a UK Reception for UK film-makers and inward investment clients on Monday, in partnership with the British Council, Creative England, Edinburgh International Film Festival, Northern Ireland and supported by UK Trade & Investment Toronto and Screen International.

  The festival selection also includes Peter Strickland's tense psychological thriller Berberian Sound Studio, which shot entirely at PG Affiliate, 3 Mills Studios, Mike Newell's London-shot Great Expectations, Ben Drew's Film London Microwave-produced directorial debut, iLL Manors as well as Julien Temple's new documentary London - The Modern Babylon, for which Film London's London Screen Archives assisted in the search through hundreds of hours of local archive footage.

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  14 Sep 2012

  New Head of International at BFI Named as Isabel Davis

  The BFI has announced that Isabel Davis is to take up a newly expanded role, Head of International. Her appointment was announced at this week's UK celebration event at the 2012 Toronto International Film Festival – which featured over 30 films with UK involvement in its official selection, including eight productions backed by the BFI Film Fund. 

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  The BFI has announced that Isabel Davis is to take up a newly expanded role, Head of International.Her appointment was announced at this week's UK celebration event at the 2012 Toronto International Film Festival – which featured over 30 films with UK involvement in its official selection, including eight productions backed by the BFI Film Fund.

  Isabel will take a strategic overview of all international activity at the BFI and that of its funded external partners, including inward investment and film export activity and working across talent and skills, policy and strategy. She will be the BFI lead on international, working collaboratively with Government, the film industry in the UK and internationally, trade associations, and the BFI's partners.

  Isabel's enhanced role reflects the BFI's new integrated international strategy, coordinating the full range of the organisation's activity from cultural exchange through to international co-production.

  Isabel remains a key part of the BFI Film Fund's editorial team with a specific focus on tracking high-calibre international filmmaking talent who might partner creatively with the UK, and exemplary UK projects with international co-production opportunities. She will continue to represent the UK's co-producing interests internationally, playing a key role in the negotiation of co-production treaties and maintaining and fostering co-production relationships with all of the UK's partner countries. She continues to report to Ben Roberts, Director of the BFI Film Fund, the UK's largest public film fund with a current budget of £18m per year, set to rise to £24m by 2017.

  Amanda Nevill, CEO of the BFI, said: "The BFI is hugely ambitious for British film on the international stage, and we fully understand the importance of focusing on this significant growth area for the benefit of UK PLC. Isabel has a thorough understanding of the international film arena and I know she will be a universally popular appointment to this important role."

  Ben Roberts, Director of the BFI Film Fund, added: "Isabel is an extremely well-liked and much respected executive in the international film community. She is a big asset for the BFI and the UK industry. Congratulations to her on this strengthened role that will help us deliver a fruitful international strategy on behalf of UK film."

  Isabel Davis said: "Bringing together the commercial and cultural interests of British film at the BFI has provided a unique opportunity to enhance our international profile across the cultural, creative and commercial spectrum. This is a fantastic chance to look afresh at UK film internationally and I look forward to working with our partners to achieve this."

  Isabel transferred to the BFI in April 2011 after originally joining the UK Film Council in late 2006. As Senior Executive, International for the BFI Film Fund, Isabel has combined editorial duties with representing the UK's co-producing interests internationally. She has led industry delegations to Brazil, India, Russia and Morocco as well as working closely with partners in France, Germany, Spain, Italy and many others, bringing together filmmakers and financiers.

  Prior to joining the UK Film Council, Isabel was Head of Development at HomeRun Film Development, during which time she developed a slate of film projects and contributed to the development of the hit TV series Doc Martin. In 2004-5, Isabel produced the short film You Can Run... , directed by the acclaimed theatre director Lucy Bailey.

  Before working in film, Isabel worked in various roles in theatre and the performing arts, including press, fundraising and general management. She holds a postgraduate diploma in Arts Administration and an MA (Hons) in French Language and Literature. 

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  14 Sep 2012

  Pinewood Studios Opens New TV Facilities in Multi Million Pound Investment

  PG Business Partner, Pinewood Studios has unveiled brand new facilities for its TV business. Pinewood's dedicated TV Studios, the 9,000 sq ft TV One and TV Two, now have a new, spacious full HD, 5.1 gallery - a vastly increased studio lighting infrastructure, increased production accommodation and new studio floors.

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  New equipment used in the gallery include a Sony MVS-7000X multi-format 3 ME vision mixer; Sony OLED monitors; Calrec Artemis Beam digital audio console with 64 multi-layer faders; Telex RTS talkback system; 2 x DVS Venice 4200 4 x channel video servers for ingest/playback and DVS SpycerBox Ultra storage server with 48Tb media storage.

  To complement this upgrade and create workflow efficiencies Pinewood's Digital Content Services department has also created a secure digital solution to ingest, digest, transfer, edit, store and deliver content in any format or language and connect with the world securely and at speed.

  All of this means that Pinewood can offer its TV clients unique, bespoke solutions to meet any creative or technical requirement in the best environment possible.

  For larger productions, Pinewood now offers the brand new 30,000 sq ft Richard Attenborough Stage with a 50ft grid height, designed for both film and television production and a further 32 stages of up to 59,000 sq ft across its sites. This means productions can accommodate audiences of over 2,000 and build vast, complex sets.

  Paul Darbyshire, Broadcast Director at Pinewood said: "This new investment is in direct response to our clients evolving needs. We need to be as flexible as possible and need to have a core infrastructure in place that gives us options – whether it's on the number of cameras required, set turnaround, audio channels, data management or simply accommodation space. No two productions are the same and we need to respond to that."

  Nick Smith, Commercial Director said: "It's fair to say that in certain parts of the industry Pinewood is best known for its film credits. The Pinewood Board and management team, however, are firmly committed to our TV business and this is backed up by the multimillion pound investment we announced earlier this year. With a new stage to service TV production and now with this new state of the art gallery to complement our already great TV studios, we are really putting a marker down to other UK studios. We want Pinewood to be the first call for any production team working on any genre of TV and believe with this investment we will be."

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  14 Sep 2012

  Win Two Free Days Filming on Wimbledon Studios Sets

  PG Affiliate, Wimbledon Studios has launched a new competition offering two days filming on their sets completely free of charge.  Entry is open until Thursday 27th September 2012 and targets professionals, low budget features, student filmmakers, bands, artists, budding actors, directors and creatives.

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  The winner will be able to use any of Wimbledon Studios' wide variety of high quality readymade sets including a hospital, a police station, a prison, a courtroom and even the House of Commons!

  The competition hopes to provide two free days of filming for a production, filmmaker or artist to use the sets, who otherwise may not have been able to afford them.  Sets will be fully dressed and ready to use but the studio cannot supply equipment, talent or ideas.

  The competition is open now until the 27th September. Winners will be announced via Twitter on the 28th September. Terms and Conditions apply.

  Entrants simply have to sign up at www.wimbledonstudios.com/futurefilmstar and follow @wimbledonstudio on Twitter for updates.

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  07 Sep 2012

  Brodie Pringle Appointed as New Location Manager at Creative Scotland

  PG Affiliate, Creative Scotland has announced the appointment of Brodie Pringle as their new Locations Manager. Brodie will lead Creative Scotland's Locations service, working to promote Scotland as a film and TV location and work in partnership with our local, national and international film and TV locations agencies to help producers and filmmakers work in Scotland. Brodie will take up the post on Monday 1st October 2012.

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  Brodie joins Creative Scotland from BBC/Little Comet co-production where she has direct experience of working with directors, producers and a wide range of agencies in order to make films happen. Brodie's recent filming credits include Under the Skin and Northern Skies and for TV, Doors Open and Hattie.

  On the appointment, Kenneth Fowler, Director of Communications and External Relations said:

  "Our Locations service continues to be a very important part of the Creative Scotland offering. Working directly with the national and international film industry and in partnership with our regional screen agencies is vital to effectively promote Scotland as a place to make films. With direct, hands-on experience of working in film and TV, Brodie brings with her the knowledge, ideas and positive energy to take our Locations work to the next level and deliver real benefits for the industry in Scotland."

  On taking up the role, Brodie Pringle said:

  "Scotland has its breathtaking vistas, amazing islands, castles and estates. Not only that but it also has amazing can-do crews, adaptable inner city locations and an active network of people dedicated to making it happen. What a great opportunity to take my on set experience and apply it to encouraging others to come and love filming in Scotland as much as I have."

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  07 Sep 2012

  Production Starts on Third Pinewood Investment Feature 'Belle'

  Production has now started on Belle, which is the third investment from the 'Pinewood Films' initiative that was announced last year and follows on from A Fantastic Fear of Everything (Simon Pegg) and Last Passenger (Dougray Scott). Shooting will start on 24 September on Belle, directed by BAFTA Award Winner Amma Asante and produced by Damian Jones whose previous credits include the Academy Award winning, 'The Iron Lady.'

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  Gugu Mbatha Raw will star in the title role, alongside Tom Wilkinson; Miranda Richardson; Matthew Goode; Emily Watson and Sarah Gadon. Recent cast additions include Penelope Wilton, Sam Reid, Tom Felton, James Norton.

  Belle is Asante's second film as writer/director following the BAFTA Award-winning 'A Way of Life' in 2004. Originally developed with Chris Collins at the UK Film Council and also at the BFI, BELLE is one of the first productions to be awarded production finance by Ben Roberts, the new Director of the BFI Film Fund.

  Belle is a tale of passion and romance in the face of overwhelming adversity. Inspired by a 1779 painting of Dido Elizabeth Belle, and her life story, Belle tells the tale of a mixed–race girl raised as an aristocratic lady in 18th Century England. Battling social prejudice against the backdrop of a controversial slavery case, Belle brings to life the love story of Dido Belle (Gugu Mbatha Raw) and John Davinier (Sam Reid), in a world where one of England's most powerful men stands between them.

  Belle will shoot in The Isle Of Man, London, Oxford, as well as Pinewood Studios, for seven weeks from 24 September.

  Damian Jones comments: "This is an important story which still has great resonance today. Amma has created a powerful tale inspired by true historical events and adds a fresh and unique twist to this Jane Austenesque romance."

  Ben Roberts, Director of the BFI Film Fund adds: "Belle promises to be a rich and accessible period drama with a difference; exploring race, class and gender in eighteenth century Britain in a way that will entertain and enlighten audiences. Amma is an exciting filmmaker, and passionate about 'Belle'. She has crafted a compelling and moving screenplay inspired by real events that we're proud to support as it enters production."

  Belle is the third project to receive investment from Pinewood Studios as part of its Pinewood Films initiative which was established to help fund and support British, independent films. Ivan Dunleavy, Chief Executive, Pinewood Shepperton plc said: "We're really pleased to be involved with such a fantastic production team. The commercial and creative success that this group of individuals has enjoyed makes this the perfect film for us to get involved with."

  A DJ Films production, presented by Isle of Man Film, Pinewood Films and the BFI, in association with Head Gear Films and Metrol Technology.
  

  The executive producers are Steve Christian ('Chico & Rita', 'TT3D: Closer to the Edge'), Julie Goldstein ('Shakespeare In Love'), Ivan Dunleavy (Pinewood Shepperton), Steve Norris ('Harry Brown', 'Me And Orson Welles'), Phil Hunt ('Trishna') and Compton Ross ('Trishna'), Chris Collins will oversee the production for the BFI Film Fund, and the co-producers are Robert Norris and Jane Robertson ('The Lady'). The Director Of Photography is Ben Smithard ('My Week With Marilyn'), Production Designer is Simon Bowles ('Hyde Park on Hudson'), Costume Designer is Anushia Nieradzik ('Hunger') Editor is Pia Di Ciaula ('Tyrannosaur') and Toby Whale ('The History Boys') is the Casting Director.

  Bankside Films is handling exclusive worldwide sales, with CinemaNX on board to distribute in the UK. Pre-sales concluded by Bankside include Icon in Australia, Benelux Film Distributors in Benelux, Rialto in Switzerland, Shooting Stars in Middle East, Bonton in Czech Republic, and Jaguar for World Airline rights.

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  04 Sep 2012

  Maria Miller Named as New Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport

  Maria Miller, MP for Basingstoke, has been appointed as the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport in the Government's Ministerial reshuffle. She will take over the role from Jeremy Hunt, who is now Health Secretary.
  

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  In her new position, Maria will be a member of the Cabinet and lead the Department for Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport, which is responsible for a very wide range of issues, including press and broadcasting, telecommunications and the arts. In addition to these responsibilities, she will also take on the Women and Equalities portfolio, which is currently held by a Home Office Minister.

  Maria said: "I am delighted to have been appointed as the Culture Secretary by the Prime Minister and am very much looking forward to tackling the many challenges that the role will bring."

  Maria added: "I will of course continue to work hard to represent the people of Basingstoke in Parliament, which has always been and continues to be my priority."

  Commenting on the Ministerial position which she has held since May 2010, Maria added: "It has been an honour to serve as Minister for Disabled People in the Department for Work and Pensions, helping to ensure that some of the most vulnerable people in our society receive the help that they need to live more independent lives." 

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  31 Aug 2012

  Pinewood Studios to Continue Progressing with Expansion Plans

  At the Pinewood Shepperton plc AGM held this week, Chairman, Lord Grade of Yarmouth, CBE announced that the company is aiming to submit a new planning application this autumn as it continues to consider expansion of the Pinewood Studios site.  The company were refused planning permission earlier this year for the proposed £200m expansion, 'Project Pinewood', which saw opposition from local residents.

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  Lord Grade highlighted the importance of pushing the Pinewood Studios site forward, commenting, "A long term plan for growth and investment at Pinewood Studios is necessary to remain globally competitive and respond to the changing needs and future demand of the screen and digital industries."

  The announcement came alongside a confirmation that the studios has been performing strongly during the difficult economic period. Lord Grade stated, "The Company continues to invest in its facilities to ensure high levels of utilisation and that it remains a leading destination of choice for producers of creative content. As part of this we have embarked on a major investment in our television business. Film revenues reflect near capacity activity and Media Park is enjoying high occupancy levels"

  It was also confirmed that the company successfully refinanced their main banking facilities in May. Pinewood's shares were delisted from the Main Market of the London Stock Exchange and admitted to trading on AIM on 23 July, along with a £5.4 million placing of new ordinary shares.

  Following the announcement in June that the company was to enter into a new partnership with the Isle of Man, Lord Grade also updated shareholders commenting, "Discussions with the Government of the Isle of Man for the Company to source and advise on film investment opportunities for its £25 million Media Development Fund are progressing well and a further announcement will be made in due course."

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  31 Aug 2012

  New £28m BFI Film Strategy Seeks Delivery Partner

  The BFI is now seeking applications from organisations to deliver a new film education strategy to inspire a lifelong passion for film in young people aged 5-19 across the UK.  The BFI has highlighted film education as a top priority for investment and the scheme will receive £28 million of Lottery funding over four years from 2013-2017, with the aim of revolutionising film education across the UK.

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  Research shows children who go to the cinema are three times more likely to be frequent cinema goers as adults, instilling a love of, and appetite for, a broad range of film. Expanding film education and learning opportunities is a key strategic aim for the BFI and is at the core of the organisation's Future Plan for UK film, which will be launched in full in October.

  The BFI believes film education is one of the most important investments to be made in securing the future success of UK film, a view backed by research and positive responses to the organisation's recent public consultation on its future priorities. The BFI has therefore decided to make a substantial commitment of £28 million of Lottery funding over four years.

  As the UK's lead organisation for film, the BFI aims to spearhead a step change in film education with a single, unified offer for watching, making and learning about film through an open-access, universal scheme. It is now looking for an organisation to help deliver these exciting and ambitious plans.

  Amanda Nevill, Chief Executive of the BFI commented, "My first trip to the cinema changed my life. Our ambition is that every child in the country has the opportunity to make the richness of film a central part of their lives. We're looking for an organisation that can help us bring flair, passion, innovation and excitement into the lives of children across the UK."

  The BFI's proposals will offer children and young people from 5 to 19 years old the opportunity to choose and watch a wide selection of films, provide opportunities to have a go at making their own films, and create a supportive club-like space to discuss and develop a love of film to ensure every one of the schools across the UK can access information and services to support film in the classroom. A world-leading online platform to actively engage and inspire young people, teachers, parents and learners at home will be developed and the scheme will work with cinemas to ensure communal film watching on the big screen is a central part of the overall education programme. The new approach will ensure a UK-wide reach by working with the BFI's strategic partners in the nations, Creative Scotland, Film Agency Wales and Northern Ireland Screen.

  The BFI wants young people from all backgrounds, who are the next generation of audiences and filmmakers, to have the opportunity to learn about, enjoy and fully appreciate the widest possible range of film and ultimately develop a lifelong relationship with film. This strategy builds on the work of organisations such as FILMCLUB, Film Education, First Light and BFI Education that has proven educational engagement with film can build a range of life skills, open up thinking, expand horizons and improve educational attainment.

  The BFI aims to make the application process as streamlined as possible and in stage one is seeking Expressions of Interest from experienced applicants who share our passion for the power of film to change lives. Applicants meeting the eligibility criteria and successful at stage one will be invited to submit a more detailed proposal at stage two. For more information, guidelines and application forms please visit the BFI website here: www.bfi.org.uk/5-19-film-education.

  The deadline for Stage One Applications is 10 October 2012.

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  31 Aug 2012

  Seven PG Members Represented with Great Expectations Set to Close BFI London Film Festival

  The 56th BFI London Film Festival in partnership with American Express has announced that this year's festival will close on Sunday 21st October with the European Premiere of Great Expectations taking place at the Odeon Leicester Square. The film is directed by acclaimed filmmaker Mike Newell, adapted by David Nicholls and starring Helena Bonham Carter, Ralph Fiennes and Jeremy Irvine as Pip, alongside an outstanding British cast.

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  In total, seven Production Guild Members worked on the feature across production and accounts including:

  Laurie Borg - Co-Producer
  Alison Banks - Production Manager
  Charlotte Ashby - Production Manager (Additional Photography)
  Eve Swannell - Production Co-ordinator
  Rachel Plose - Production Accountant
  Elizabeth Hurley - 1st Assistant Accountant
  Christine Samways - 2nd Assistant Accountant

  The film will tell the well known tale of young orphan Pip, whom is given a chance to rise from his humble beginnings thanks to a mysterious benefactor. Moving through London's class-ridden world as a gentleman, Pip uses his new-found position to pursue the beautiful Estella, a spoilt heiress he's loved since childhood. Yet the shocking truth behind this great fortune will have devastating consequences for everything he holds dear.

  The cast also includes Jeremy Irvine, Holliday Grainger, Robbie Coltrane, Ewen Bremner, Jason Flemyng, Sally Hawkins, David Walliams and Tamzin Outhwaite.

  The film will be released by Lionsgate on 30th November 2012 in the UK.

  Clare Stewart, BFI Head of Exhibition comments on her first Closing Night choice as Festival Director:

  Visually ravishing and rippling with immediacy, this new adaptation of the classic novel, directed by Mike Newell provides a fitting conclusion to both the 56th BFI London Film Festival and London's bicentenary celebrations of the life and work of Charles Dickens. David Nicholls' splendid script has an acute respect for the complexities of Dickens' original text and gives plenty of scope to the film's rising stars – Jeremy Irvine (Pip) and Holliday Grainger (Estella) – along with some of the UK's finest acting talent, including compelling performances from Ralph Fiennes as Magwitch and Helena Bonham Carter as Miss Havisham.

  Director Mike Newell adds:

  It's a great honour to be invited to be the BFI London Film Festival's Closing Night film. I'm proud that our new version of Great Expectations should be presented this year, the bicentenary of Dickens' birth. I've tried to make a film that is true to the theatrical vividness, energetic characters and high colour that he is loved for, while mining the deep seams of emotional cruelty and madness that underlie one of Dickens' darkest-shadowed stories. I've tried to make a film for a young modern audience in which Pip and Estella's fated love affair is shown through feelings and stresses that are of today and in a city that was, then, full of brawling energy, was unimaginably wealthy and very bad.

  Great Expectations is produced by award-winning partners at Number 9 Films, Elizabeth Karlsen and Stephen Woolley (Made in Dagenham, How to Lose Friends & Alienate People, The Crying Game). Producers for Unison Films are Emanuel Michael and David Faigenblum, and the film has been financed by BBC Films, the BFI Film Fund, Lipsync Productions, Unison Films and Hart/-Lunsford Pictures.

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  30 Aug 2012

  Nominations Now Open for Sky Women in Film & Television Awards 2012

  Nominations are now open for the 22nd Annual Sky Women in Film and Television Awards, which will take place in London on Friday 7th December. WFTV are now accepting nominations in 13 Award categories, with the nominations window closing on Friday 14th September.

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  For a full list and details of the awards, which will be presented at this year's ceremony, please click here.

  Nominations for all of these awards can now be made online by clicking here.

  Bookings for the Awards will open on Monday 1st October and last year, tickets sold out in less than 48 hours. For the latest updates, you can subscribe to the WFTV newsletter by clicking here.

  Table and individual ticket prices will be as follows:

  Table of 10
  Premium table = £2150 (early bird rate = £2000)
  Standard table = £1750 (early bird rate = £1600)

  Member ticket
  Premium seat = £175 (early bird rate = £160)
  Standard seat = £145 (early bird rate = £130)

  Non-Member Ticket
  Premium seat = £215 (early bird rate = £200)
  Standard seat = £175 (early bird rate = £160)

  Full booking details will go live on Monday 1st October.

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  24 Aug 2012

  Sony Pictures Acquires Majority Stake in Left Bank Pictures

  Sony Pictures Television (SPT) today announced it has taken a majority stake in British production company Left Bank Pictures, signalling a significant move into scripted production in the UK. Under this new agreement, SPT will also distribute future Left Bank Pictures television content, both finished programming and formats, and will have a first look distribution option on feature films produced by the company.

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  Since its inception, Left Bank Pictures' success in the international marketplace has been matched by recognition at awards ceremonies from BAFTA and RTS to the Golden Globes and Emmys.

  Left Bank Pictures is one of the UK's leading producers of scripted television programmes and has developed international co productions with partners such as HBO and Mediaset.

  Its impressive track record of successes includes Wallander (BBC), Mad Dogs (Sky), Strike Back (Sky/HBO Cinemax), Cardinal Burns (E4) and DCI Banks (ITV) which have received critical acclaim and ratings success all over the world.

  Announcing the deal, SPT's president of international production, Andrea Wong, said: "I'm very excited to welcome Left Bank Pictures to our global production family. Powered by the outstanding creative talent of Andy, Marigo and their team, Left Bank is justifiably admired in the UK and internationally, making it the perfect complement to our diverse UK portfolio."

  Andy Harries said: "This is a brilliant opportunity for Left Bank and we are thrilled by the new partnership with SPT. I am a huge admirer of Andrea Wong and her energy and enthusiasm for our work is incredibly encouraging. This marks the start of a new phase of ambitious quality drama from us for the international market place."

  Marigo Kehoe added: "Andrea Wong has a clear vision of SPT's future as a content provider in the global marketplace and has an impressive take on both the business and creative sides of the business. We are excited by the potential of this new partnership."

  Andy Harries and Marigo Kehoe will continue to lead Left Bank Pictures from its existing London office, and Harries will now report into Wong.

  The company's film arm is behind independent titles such as the Aung San Suu Kyi biopic, The Lady (with Europacorp), the acclaimed adaptation of David Peace's The Damned United (Columbia Pictures) and All In Good Time (Studio Canal) – based on Ayub Khan Din's hit National Theatre production.

  Left Bank Pictures was founded in 2007 by Andy Harries (chief executive officer) and Marigo Kehoe (managing director) following the success of their time at Granada and ITV Studios which produced Prime Suspect, Cold Feet, The Royle Family and the Academy Award winning film The Queen.

  Left Bank Pictures is SPT's fourth UK production venture, joining Gogglebox Entertainment, Victory Television and Silver River. Other markets outside the US where SPT produces scripted television locally include Germany, Russia, the Netherlands, The Middle East and across Latin America. Globally, SPT's international production arm operates wholly owned and joint venture companies in 15 countries covering Europe, Latin America, Asia and the Middle East.

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  24 Aug 2012

  UK and Ireland Become Fastest Territories to Adopt Film and TV Streaming Service Netflix

  Netflix, Inc., the world's leading Internet subscription service for enjoying TV series and films, has hit the one million member milestone in the UK and Ireland within seven months, faster than in any other territory it has launched. That's four times faster than it took Twitter to hit one million users globally and nearly twice as fast as it took Facebook and Foursquare globally.

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  Netflix Chief Executive Officer, Reed Hastings commented, "This membership milestone is evidence that Netflix has rapidly gained popularity in the UK and Ireland. Our British and Irish members clearly enjoy the ability to instantly watch a large variety of TV shows and films streaming from Netflix on their favourite devices whenever they want."

  Consumers are spending more time enjoying entertainment online, according to a survey by YouGov for Netflix. Ten percent of the UK population now dedicates two hours or more of their day to watching their favourite TV show delivered through the Internet.

  On Netflix, comedy and drama are the top genre choices among UK and Irish members, whose favourite time of the week to enjoy their streaming entertainment is on a Sunday night.

  TV presenter and gadget expert, Pollyanna Woodward stated, "Consumers are beginning to spend more time enjoying entertainment online, streaming TV and film, and this trend is only growing. With services like Netflix, consumers can watch their favourite TV shows and films when and how they want."

  Netflix is available on over 800 devices, including PCs, Macs, movile devices, tablets, internet enabled TVs, Blu-ray players and all three major video game consoles. Brits spend £565.21 a year on new electronic gear, according to YouGov, meaning that it is likely that any given household has at least one device that can stream TV shows and films from Netflix. 

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  24 Aug 2012

  Channel 4 Announces New and Returning Drama for Autumn and Winter 2012

  Channel 4 has detailed a range of new and returning drama and comedy due for broadcast in Autumn and Winter 2012. This includes new dramas, The Fear, Everyday, Utopia and Run and the return of Homeland, Top Boy and Misfits.

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  NEW CHANNEL 4 DRAMA AND COMEDY

  Everyday

  Filmed over a period of five years, Everyday is a single feature-length drama featuring award-winning director Michael Winterbottom and starring John Simm as a prisoner and Shirley Henderson as his wife. The ambitious drama is a tender and unique portrayal of one family living through a prison sentence.

  Coup

  A contemporary conspiracy thriller starring Gabriel Byrne as politician Tom Dawkins. He is joined by a roster of Britain's best on-screen talent including Douglas Hodge , Gina McKee and Charles Dance .

  The Fear

  Stars Peter Mullan as Brighton crime boss turned entrepreneur Richie Beckett whose hard-earned respectability is threatened by two new enemies: an invading Albanian mafia and an aggressive form of early onset dementia. The four-part series is written by Richard Cottan, directed by Michael Samuels and stars Harry Lloyd, Paul Nicholls, Anastasia Hille and Richard E Grant.

  Utopia

  A six-part thriller from Dennis Kelly which centres on a mysterious graphic novel and a shadowy unit called The Network who will stop at nothing to keep its origin and meaning a secret. Paul Higgins, Nathan Stewart-Jarrett, Alexandra Roach, Adeel Akhtar and Neil Maskell head up an ensemble cast of UK talent who find themselves embroiled in a cult conspiracy theory turned terrifyingly real.

  Complicit

  A compelling single drama from acclaimed writer Guy Hibbert. Starring David Oyelowo, the drama explores the murky moral compromises that underpin the hidden intelligence war and asks if torture is ever justified when fighting a War on Terror.

  Run

  Stars Olivia Colman, Lennie James, Katie Leung and Jamie Winstone in an original four-part series from new writers Marlon Smith and Daniel Fajemisin-Duncan. The interconnectedness of apparently separate lives is revealed through the compelling stories of five people faced with impossible choices.

  The Snowman and The Snowdog

  Will be at the centrepiece of Channel 4's Christmas programming. This charming sequel will unite Raymond Briggs' children's favourite with a new friend.

  My Fat Mad Teenage Diary

  For E4 with newcomer Sharon Rooney staring as the heroine in a brand new series adapted from the real-life diary of writer Rae Earl. Set in the mid-90s at the height of cool Britannia, the comedy drama takes a hilarious and honest look at teenage life from the perspective of a sixteen-year-old.

  Full English

  Will serve up a very British slice of comedy life in Channel 4's first brand new fully-animated series, where a typical Brit family end up debating the state of the nation and, more importantly, the state of 'slebs' from James Corden to Simon Cowell.

  RETURNING CHANNEL 4 DRAMA AND COMEDY

  The multi-award winning, smash-hit drama Homeland, with Damien Lewis and Claire Danes, returns for a second series, along with the critically acclaimed comedy drama series Fresh Meat, written by Sam Bain and Jesse Armstrong. Ashley Walters reprises his acclaimed role in the second series of Ronan Bennett's searing thriller Top Boy about living life on the edge. Finally on E4, now in its fourth series, Misfits returns with business as usual and introduces a couple of new faces at the community centre. Peep Show returns for an eighth series. As Dobby agrees to move in with Mark, it's time for Jeremy to move out and for both friends to grow up and move on.

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  24 Aug 2012

  ITV Details New and Returning Television Drama

  ITV has revealed its line-up of over ten returning and new television dramas for ITV1, ITV2, ITV3 and ITV4, alongside their new ad campaign entitled "Drama Lives on ITV". The drama productions were commissioned by ITV Director of Drama, Laura Mackie, and ITV Controller of Drama, Sally Haynes. 

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  ITV Director of Drama, Laura Mackie commented, "We have a really strong and diverse line-up of drama coming to ITV over the forthcoming months. Brilliant writers and directors and an outstanding array of acting talent will entertain our audiences and the Drama Lives on ITV campaign showcases the breadth and variety of our output."

  UPCOMING ITV DRAMA PRODUCTIONS

  Mrs Biggs

  Sheridan Smith plays the title role of Charmian Biggs, with Daniel Mays assuming the role of Ronnie Biggs in the five-part series from ITV Studios. Written by Jeff Pope (Executive Producer - Appropriate Adult, Mo), Mrs Biggs tells the story of Charmian's life with Ron before, during and after his involvement in the Great Train Robbery.

  The Bletchley Circle

  BAFTA award winner Anna Maxwell Martin stars alongside Rachael Stirling, Sophie Rundle and Julie Graham in this compelling new three-part thriller from World Productions. The drama focuses on four women, each with unique intelligence gathering skills, who worked at Bletchley Park during World War II. They unite post War with the aim of tracking down a murderer.

  Downton Abbey (Series 3)

  The third series, set in 1920, sees the return of the much-loved characters and the arrival of Shirley MacLaine as Cora's mother, Martha Levinson who sweeps into Downton Abbey causing a stir above and below stairs.

  Homefront

  Claire Skinner, Clare Higgins, Nicola Stephenson and Antonia Thomas are the military wives and girlfriends in this ITV Studios new contemporary drama series about the women who fight the battles on the 'homefront' whilst their men are in Afghanistan risking their lives.

  The Last Weekend

  Rupert Penry-Jones and Shaun Evans star in Mick Ford's adaptation of Blake Morrison's best-selling suspense thriller about two friends whose competitiveness reaches extreme heights over an August Bank Holiday weekend.

  Leaving

  Three-part drama starring Helen McCrory and newcomer Callum Turner about a woman who falls in love with a much younger man and the implications of that relationship for their families and how it effects them at work. Leaving is produced by Red Production Company and written and created by acclaimed screenwriter Tony Marchant.

  Monroe

  Medical drama starring James Nesbitt returns to ITV1 with a strong ensemble cast including Sarah Parish, Tom Riley, Christina Chong, Michelle Asante, Luke Allen-Gale and Andrew Gower. For this new series the cast are joined by Tracy-Ann Oberman, Neil Pearson and Lisa Millet. Created by BAFTA award winning writer Peter Bowker and produced by Mammoth Screen.

  A Mother's Son

  Hermione Norris, Martin Clunes, Paul McGann and Alexander Arnold star in this two part drama from ITV Studios about a mother who suspects her son may have murdered a school friend. Are her suspicions misplaced?

  The Scapegoat

  An adaptation of Daphne Du Maurier's classic novel, starring Matthew Rhys, Sheridan Smith, Eileen Atkins, Jodhi May and Andrew Scott. The Scapegoat tells the story of two very different men – John Standing and Johnny Spence – who are doppelgangers. They meet by chance each at a crossroads in their life and after an alcohol fuelled night John finds himself sucked into another man's life. An Island Pictures Production written and directed by Charles Sturridge.

  Mr Selfridge

  A stellar ensemble cast including Jeremy Piven, Katherine Kelly, Frances O'Connor, Zoe Tapper, Gregory Fitoussi, Amanda Abbington, Samuel West and Aisling Loftus star in this new series penned by multi award winning writer Andrew Davies. Mr Selfridge is based on the life of the flamboyant and visionary American entrepreneur, Harry Gordon Selfridge and is produced by ITV Studios.

  Switch

  Take four girls, add some flirting, stir in a quantity of heady rebelliousness, a pinch of risk-taking, several spoonfuls of true friendship and Stella, Jude, Grace and Hannah are born. Four young twenty somethings based in London's Camden Town who just happen to be witches!

  They are the potent mix of characters in ITV2's new homegrown drama, Switch. Ordered by Director of Digital Channels and Acquisitions, Angela Jain, Switch is produced by Touchpaper Television and stars Lacey Turner, Nina Toussaint-White, Phoebe Fox and Hannah Tointon. 

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  24 Aug 2012

  BBC Reveals New Drama and Comedy Commissions as New Controller is Announced

  The BBC has detailed a total of nine new original drama and comedy productions for BBC2 and BBC3. The new productions were revealed this week by BBC Two Controller, Janice Hadlow and BBC Three Controller, Zai Bennett. The announcements come as Shane Allen has also been appointed as the BBC's new Controller of Comedy Commissioning.

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  BBC Two Controller Janice Hadlow confirmed a new slate of major dramas and comedy drama series from Sue Perkins, Ade Edmondson and Rich May all, and Mitchell and Webb.

  Janice Hadlow commented, "BBC Two has had a really successful year with stand-out dramas from The Best Of Men to Line of Duty, the channel's best performing drama series since 2002; fantastic comedy including Twenty Twelve and The Sarah Millikan Show and our contribution to the Cultural Olympiad from the acclaimed The Hollow Crown adaptations of Shakespeare's history plays.

  "Looking ahead, I want to ensure that the channel's sense of confidence and scale continues, and I believe that these commissions, from a major year-long celebration of British inventiveness and ingenuity to new dramas and comedies from some of our brightest and best talent demonstrate the range and ambition we have for BBC Two."

  NEW BBC TWO DRAMA

  Wolf Hall

  A thrilling six-part adaptation Hilary Mantel's novels, the Man Booker Prize-winning Wolf Hall and Bring Up The Bodies. England in the 1520s is a heartbeat from disaster. If Henry VIII dies without a male heir, the country could be destroyed by civil war. Into the impasse steps Thomas Cromwell; son of a brutal blacksmith, a political genius, a briber, a bully and a charmer, Cromwell has broken all the rules of a rigid society in his rise to power, and is prepared to break some more. Pitting himself against parliament, the political establishment and the papacy, he is prepared to reshape England to his own and Henry VIII's desires.

  Writer: Peter Straughan, Indie: Company Pictures, George Faber, BBC exec: Polly Hill

  The Honourable Woman

  Following the critically acclaimed, The Shadow Line, Hugo Black returns with The Honourable Woman (6x60). The daughter of a UK Zionist gun-runner inherits her murdered father's company and by dramatically inverting its purpose from supplying tanks to tractors starts a deadly political war.

  Hugo Black says: "This is a suspenseful spy thriller about inheritance, political and personal, and the lengths some spies will go to not only to deceive their enemies - but also themselves."

  The Honourable Woman is being made by Eight Rooks. The BBC Executive Producer is Polly Hill.

  Ben Stephenson, Controller, BBC Drama, says: "These two pieces have a level of authorship and ambition that continues to consolidate BBC Two's reputation as the home of distinctive and intelligent British drama alongside recent hits Line of Duty, The Hollow Crown and The Best of Men."

  NEW BBC TWO COMEDY

  Our Men

  David Mitchell and Robert Webb lead the cast in their first new comedy drama series; Our Men follows the lives and loves of the British Embassy team in Tazbekistan, one of the ex-Soviet 'Stans'. David Mitchell plays Keith Davis, the newly appointed British Ambassador of Tazbekistan – ambitious, he intends to make his mark in this posting. Standing beside him is Neil Tilly, Deputy Head of Mission (Robert Webb). While Davis is out representing Britain, Neil is in the Embassy pulling the levers and managing the staff. It's a tough posting where they are far more likely to be drinking lethal vodka in the President's hunting yurt than having G&Ts on the lawn.

  Written by James Wood and Rupert Walters, the executive producers are Kenton Allen and Luke Alkin for Big Talk Productions and Chris Sussman for BBC Comedy.

  Heading Out

  Broadcaster and comedian Sue Perkins will take the lead role in a self-penned new comedy, Heading Out. Perkins plays Sara – a veterinarian so skilled, she can spay a tortoise one-handed. She's successful, she's popular – there's just one chink in her armour – she's too scared to tell her parents she's gay. On the evening of her 40th birthday, Sara's friends give her an ultimatum: either she tells her parents when they come to visit in six weeks' time, or they will. To help Sara achieve this goal, they've saved up to buy a series of sessions with Toria, the eccentric and mildly-qualified lifestyle coach / therapist, and so the countdown begins...

  Heading Out was commissioned by Kristian Smith, Executive Editor, BBC Comedy Commissioning. The 6x30 series is a co-production between RED Production Company and Square Peg TV. Nicola Shindler is executive producing for RED Production Company with Debi Allen executive producer for Square Peg TV. The executive producer for the BBC is Kristian Smith.

  Hooligans' Island

  Next year it will be 18 years since Richie Rich and Eddie Hitler last graced our television screens in cult hit, Bottom. So what has happened to these titans of comedy? Are they still living in one of the dirtiest and least hygienic flats uncondemned by Health and Safety? Are they still drinking neat furniture polish whilst hitting each other over the head with large metal objects, setting fire to each other as they seek to impress gullible members of the opposite sex, and each other? Or are they down the pub?

  No, they are abandoned, lost, shipwrecked on the tropical hell hole that is Hooligans Island and they are still hitting each other over the head with large metal objects, still chasing women, even though there are none on the island, and still waiting for that job seekers allowance cheque as they distil something quite like alcohol, only worse. And they are back on BBC Two in 2013 for six new episodes starring Rich May all and Ade Edmondson. Be afraid, be very afraid and then just a little bit bilious.

  Hooligans' Island is a BBC In-house comedy co-production with Phil McIntyre productions. It will be executive produced by Jon Plowman for the BBC and Lucy Ansbro for Phil McIntyre Productions.

  Count Arthur Strong

  Graham Linehan (IT Crowd, Father Ted, Black Books), is working with Steve Delaney, the creator of Sony Award-winning radio character Count Arthur Strong, to take the character on the full journey from Edinburgh cult to his television debut.

  Count Arthur Strong is an elderly pompous show-business legend... though really just an out-of-work deluded thespian originally from Doncaster, in the north of England. Delaney's geriatric creation is a mixture of physical and mental clumsiness, mirthful malapropisms and Tourettic tics, whose pride forbids him from ever conceding fallibility, even as his world crashes around him.

  The 6x30 series is being made by Retort and Komedia Entertainment. Executive producers are Jon Rolph for Retort, Richard Daws for Komedia and Gregor Sharp for the BBC.

  Gregor Sharp says: "We are absolutely delighted to see Graham and Steve join the immensely talented group of writers and comedians making brilliant shows across the BBC channels."

  During his Controller session at the Media Guardian Edinburgh International Television Festival this week, Zai Bennett, Controller, BBC Three, announced a wealth of new commissions for the channel, including new comedy and drama series.

  Zai said: "At BBC Three we're never afraid to try new things and we're the only channel that brings such a rich and diverse offering specifically to young audiences in the UK."

  He continued, "BBC Three is having an incredible year. We're proud to have just co-hosted the biggest sporting event on the planet to great critical acclaim and unprecedented viewing figures. Coming out of that we've just launched a season of exciting new programmes on the channel, proving that quality, relevant, meaningful television isn't only the domain of the terrestrial channels. BBC Three is currently in a fantastic place and I'm delighted to be announcing this raft of new commissions to help us continue on this path. I'm confident there's something for everyone in amongst them."

  NEW BBC THREE DRAMA

  In The Flesh

  In The Flesh is set in a small village in the North of England, post-zombie uprising, as rehabilitated zombies begin to be reintroduced back into society. Now known as PDS Sufferers (Partially Deceased Syndrome), these former zombies have been caught, treated and, armed with their flesh cover-up and special contact lenses are now returning to their friends and families who previously thought them dead.

  Our hero is called Kieren Walker, a 17 year old who committed suicide four years' ago when his best mate Rick died in Afghanistan. He didn't leave a note, and is now returning to a village that always rejected him and a family who never got to say goodbye.

  Across the three episodes, we follow Kieren as he struggles to cope with fitting back in, with the guilt of what he did in his untreated state, and the sudden reappearance of Rick, a fellow PDS Sufferer. The boy that Kieren thought was dead is alive and the boy Rick thought was alive is dead. Can they be happy a second time round? Can Kieren finally make peace with both his past and his present? Can humans and PDS sufferers live side by side in this new highly charged and emotionally complicated world?

  In The Flesh is a 3x60-minute event drama by new writer Dominic Mitchell. This is his first TV commission and was developed by the BBC Drama Production team in Salford after they read the submissions for 'Northern Voices', a BBC Writersroom competition.

  It will be directed by Jonny Campbell (Eric And Ernie, Doctor Who) and produced by Annie Harrison Baxter (The Secret Of Crickley Hall, Treasure Island). Casting is underway and the show will go into production in the autumn.

  NEW BBC THREE COMEDY

  Boom Town

  Following a pilot earlier this year, "real life" sketch show Boom Town has now been commissioned to a series of six half hours. Boom Town will see real people cast in what will be a first for the sketch show genre. Whilst the place itself, Boom Town, will be entirely fictional, the people are real life characters and will appear to live there as a community. The series will be shot using the conventions of a glossy sketch show and fake road signs and carefully selected geography shots will all help create this illusion.

  Cast from all over the country, the characters will have their own catchphrases, eccentricities and larger than life personalities, none of which will be scripted for them; they'll be simply playing themselves.

  Executive produced by Karl Warner for the BBC and Jonathan Stadlen for Knickerbockerglory. The director is Hannah Springham. 6x30-minute.

  Bad Education Series 2

  Bad Education, the brand new comedy series written by and starring Jack Whitehall as Alfie, the world's worst teacher and a bigger kid than the kids themselves has been commissioned for a second series. Series one has just started on the channel. Also starring Mathew Horne (Gavin And Stacey) as Fraser, the school's unhip headmaster, and Sarah Solemani (Him And Her) as Miss Gulliver, the school biology teacher and the apple of Alfie's eye. She cares deeply about the school and the students.

  6 x 30-minute produced by Ben Cavey and Pippa Brown at Tiger Aspect. BBC executive producer is Chris Sussman.

  The BBC also announced the appointment of Shane Allen as Controller, Comedy Commissioning.

  Since October 2009, Shane has been Head of Comedy at Channel 4, where his commissions have included: Black Mirror; Derek; Facejacker; the BAFTA-nominated Friday Night Dinner & Comic Strip Presents: The Hunt For Tony Blair; Cardinal Burns. He has also overseen the continued runs of the BAFTA-winning IT Crowd and Peep Show.

  Prior to this he was Commissioning Editor, Comedy, at Channel 4 where he commissioned Star Stories; Fonejacker; Dead Set; series two and three of The Inbetweeners; and PhoneShop.

  Before this he worked freelance on a variety of programmes including The 11 O'Clock Show (Producer), The Brass Eye Special (Writer/AP), Ali G in Da USAiiii (Director), Shooting Stars (Writer); The State We're In (Producer); and Union Jack (Series Producer). Shane was also Executive Producer on The Inbetweeners Movie, the biggest UK funded comedy film of all time.

  Shane will be based in London as part of the team delivering a pan-UK comedy strategy across TV, radio and online.

  Shane said: "Comedy is my life's passion, so this is a dream job and the best gig in TV comedy given the BBC's unique volume, range, commitment and legacy. It's the perfect time to join as Cheryl Taylor leaves behind a string of big audience delivering hit shows across all the channels, and George Entwistle is a very keen and inspiring champion of comedy on his new watch. I feel proud to leave Channel 4 comedy in rude health and end on a high with the Funny Fortnight season."

  Roger Mosey, Acting Director of BBC Vision, added: "I'm delighted by Shane's appointment. He has a great track record in the industry and we're pleased he's joining the BBC to make sure that we continue to offer original and distinctive comedy to our television audiences." 

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  24 Aug 2012

  Tim Burton's Frankenweenie to Open 56th BFI London Film Festival

  The 56th BFI London Film Festival in partnership with American Express has announced that this year's festival will open on Wednesday 10 October with the European Premiere of Disney's Frankenweenie, directed by acclaimed filmmaker Tim Burton. The film had seven Production Guild members attached to it.

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  PG Members who worked on Frankenweenie include: Simon Quinn - Line Producer, Joan Schneider - Unit Production Manager, Andrew Bonner - Production Co-ordinator, Serena Nutting - Production Assistant(Dailies), Adam Hughes - Production Assistant (Travel / Accom / Facilities Coordinator), Jeffrey Broom - Production Accountant and James Broom - 1st Assistant Accountant.

  In partnership with American Express and Disney, and in a first for the festival, the Opening Night screening and red carpet will go live from Odeon Leicester Square to BFI IMAX and 30 screens across the UK. The festival will also host The Art of Frankenweenie Exhibition from 17 to 21 October.

  Frankenweenie is a heartwarming tale about a boy and his dog. After unexpectedly losing his beloved dog Sparky, young Victor harnesses the power of science to bring his best friend back to life – with just a few minor adjustments. He tries to hide his home-sewn creation, but when Sparky gets out, Victor's fellow students, teachers and the entire town all learn that getting a new "leash on life" can be monstrous.

  A visually stunning black and white, stop-motion animated film in 3D, Frankenweenie's voice cast includes Catherine O'Hara, Martin Short, Martin Landau, Charlie Tahan, Atticus Shaffer, Robert Capron, Conchata Ferrell and Winona Ryder. Disney will release the film in the UK on 17 October.

  Tim Burton, Winona Ryder, Martin Short, Catherine O'Hara, Martin Landau, Producer Allison Abbate and Executive Producer Don Hahn are expected to attend the festival.

  In a first for the BFI London Film Festival Opening Night, Frankenweenie will receive a simultaneous premiere in 30 cinemas nationwide, with audiences across the UK able to enjoy footage from the Leicester Square red carpet prior to the screenings. This event is part of the festival's drive to reach a diverse UK audience and put the public at the heart of the festival-going experience.

  Frankenweenie is the first animated film that Tim Burton has directed for Disney. Burton also produced along with Allison Abbate, with Don Hahn serving as executive producer. The screenplay is by John August, based on an original idea by Tim Burton.

  Clare Stewart, BFI Head of Exhibition comments on her first Opening Night choice as Festival Director:

  "Funny, dark and whimsical, this gloriously crafted stop-motion 3D animation from Tim Burton – the reigning prince of outsiders – playfully turns the Frankenstein story on its bolted-on head. Frankenweenie is a perfect choice of opener – it's a film that revels in the magic of movies from one of cinema's great visionaries. Tim Burton has chosen London as his home city and hundreds of talented British craftspeople have contributed to this production. To host the European premiere, to present The Art of Frankenweenie Exhibition and to take our Opening Night out to 30 screens means we are making the festival even more accessible for film fans across the UK."

  Producer Allison Abbate adds:

  "I am delighted that Frankenweenie, which was produced here in London at 3 Mills Studios, will be opening the 56th BFI London Film Festival. Living and working in the UK, I've been able to collaborate with some of the most talented artists in the industry including the puppet designers and fabricators from Manchester-based Mackinnon & Saunders. In the last nine years, I've attended the festival as both a filmmaker and guest, and I know how passionate and enthusiastic the audiences are, so I am thrilled to share the film's European premiere with them."

  Colin Walsh, Managing Director, American Express UK adds:

  "We're thrilled to be further strengthening our partnership with the BFI and the Festival through our support for this year's Opening Night Gala. In addition to Frankenweenie being a much anticipated film, what makes this year's Opening Night so special is the opportunity for audiences across the country to experience the excitement of a West End premiere. That, coupled with the interactive exhibition giving people an insight behind the scenes of the film, is sure to make this a fantastic start to this year's festival."

  This is also the fifth time in the last six years that a film made at PG affiliate, 3 Mills Studios has either opened or closed the London Film Festival. It is also the second animated film to open the Festival in recent years. Wes Anderson's Fantastic Mr Fox, also shot at 3 Mills Studios, opened the 53rd London Film Festival in 2009.

  Other 3 Mills movies to take a starring role at the festival include The Deep Blue Sea which closed the festival in 2011, Never Let Me Go which opened in 2010, and Eastern Promises which opened in 2007.

  Derek Watts, Studio Executive at 3 Mills Studios said: "The London Film Festival is one of the best known and most prestigious film festivals in the world. It is fitting that so many of its opening and closing films in recent years have been made right here in London's largest Studios. I think it speaks highly of the strength within the British film industry and it is certainly something of which London, and east London in particular, should be very proud."

  The Art of Frankenweenie Exhibition is generously supported by American Express. The exhibition runs from 17-21 October (with a press preview and preview for American Express Cardmembers on 16 October) and will be free to the public. For information on tickets see bfi.org.uk/lff from 5 September.

  Hours of meticulous work have gone into the making of Frankenweenie, perfecting the figures and characters that bring this amazing story to life. The BFI London Film Festival is presenting the exhibition in association with Disney and Principal Partner American Express.

  The Art of Frankenweenie Exhibition captures the magic of the filmmaking process and gives audiences an exclusive glimpse into the stop-motion animation process brought to life by visionary filmmaker Tim Burton. From original sketches drawn by Burton, to extensive props, sets and puppets, the exhibition showcases the artistic detail and vision that has gone into bringing this heartwarming tale to the big screen in 2012's most highly anticipated animated movie. The Art of Frankenweenie Exhibition delves into the world of a boy who, inspired by science and the love of his dog, brings his beloved pet back from the dead.

  There will be exciting workshop opportunities for education audiences to explore the production of Frankenweenie via guided tours of the Exhibit, meeting some of the talented people who made the film and trying their hand at the skills required for animation and set design.

  The Art of Frankenweenie Exhibition will take place next door to the BFI Southbank at Southbank Centre's Festival Village.

  The 56th BFI London Film Festival in partnership with American Express runs from Wednesday 10 October to Sunday 21 October. The full programme for the festival will be announced at the press launch on Wednesday 5 September. 

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  22 Aug 2012

  Cross-Media Forum at BFI London Film Festival Opens for Registration

  Registration is now open for the 6th Cross-Media Forum due to take place from 16th to 19th October 2012, held in association with the 56th BFI London Film Festival. The Power to the Pixel event will bring together speakers from film and television alongside other cross-media sectors to talk about key issues within the industries. It will also once again include the Pixel Pitch Competition, awarding the £6,000 ARTE prize.
  

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  16 October - Conference

  This year's conference will host international digital experts and award-winning creatives including Sean Stewart (USA), lead writer and founder of Emmy-nominated Fourth Wall Studios; interactive film maker and producer for Caviar Films Peter De Maegd (BEL); NFB Canada's Head of Digital Content & Strategy whose multi-award-winning projects include Bear 71, Loc Dao (CAN) who will showcase the company's latest interactive projects; digital rights and licensing expert, Wendy Bernfeld (NETH) (Former CEO at Canal + International Acquisitions) who will discuss new digital licensing opportunities.

  17 October - The Pixel Pitch competition

  Part of Power to the Pixel's Pixel Market - the only event in the world dedicated to financing cross-media projects - The Pixel Pitch is an incredible opportunity to find out what kinds of projects commissioners and top-level executives are looking to fund, and how best to approach them.

  Eight trailblazing teams will pitch their ideas to an auspicious jury, competing for the prestigious £6,000 ARTE Pixel Pitch Prize.

  This year's jury includes head of Channel 4's multi-platform commissioning team Louise Brown (UK); McCann Erickson's Chief Insights and Innovation Officer Wayne Fletcher (USA/UK); Senior Production and Development Executive for the BFI Film Fund, Lizzie Francke (UK); Executive Director at the Tribeca Film Institute, Beth Janson (USA); Head of Web, New Writing & Transmedia at France Télévisions, Boris Razon (FR); Director of Wallimage CrossMedia & Chairman of Cine-Regio, Philippe Reynaert (BEL).

  The jury will give direct feedback to contestants, offering the audience an opportunity to find out what ideas turn them on and the kinds of partnerships they're looking to form in the future.

  Tickets and Registration:
  http://powertothepixel.com/events-and-training/pttp-events/london-forum-2012/register

  For more info contact: info@powertothepixel.com or +44 (0)20 7535 6720.

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  21 Aug 2012

  New Production Manager for South of England Appointed at Creative England

  Creative England is expanding its presence in the South of England, recruiting a new member of its Locations and Production Services team to cover the southern region. Rebecca Snook joined the team on the 1st August and will be providing production liaison and partnership manager support from the north of Oxfordshire to the Isle of Wight, and from Kent in the east to Hampshire's western border. She will be based chiefly in the British Film Commission office at Pinewood Studios.

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  Originally from Buckinghamshire, Rebecca has spent the last three years as a Senior Location Coordinator at a London-based commercial locations agency, working with some of the largest production companies shooting in the UK. She has also worked as a freelance Production Assistant, Locations Assistant and Scout.

  She will now focus on delivering a locations and production support service for the South region, bolstering Creative England's aim to offer a single, streamlined service to production companies and crew across all English regions outside London.

  Rebecca Snook said: "I am thrilled to be back in the Home Counties and look forward to dipping my toes into the English Channel once more".

  Creative England, which opened its doors one year ago in October, has a remit to support productions shooting in the English regions as well as improve the conditions for filmmaking.

  To that end, it is working with local authorities, facilities companies, crew and locations to provide an unparalleled source of essential contacts and information for the whole of England outside of London.

  Rebecca's appointment comes as the organisation prepares to launch two new databases for all English crew and locations outside London to help bolster the one stop shop service it offers to production companies, thus helping to boost inward investment in the English regions.

  Creative England's locations database so far has around 2,000 locations registered, but is aiming for many more across all the English regions. The service is free for production companies to use and is free to register on.

  Local regions benefit from having blockbusters filming on their doorstep, as productions can spend up to £30,000 per day on everything from hotels to props to coffee for the stars. In total, feature films contributed over £1billion to the UK economy in 2011, a record figure*.

  Kaye Elliott, Head of Location & Production Services at Creative England, said: "Rebecca has a wealth of experience working on and with productions all across the South of England so she'll be able to hit the ground running. She'll be a great addition to the team and will be able to provide some dedicated support to TV and film production in the region.

  "We are working hard to build up the one stop shop service we are able to offer production companies. Having Rebecca on board as we launch the databases will really help us to round out this service so we are thrilled to have her at this busy time".

  Andrew M. Smith, Director of Strategy and Communications for Pinewood Shepperton plc, said: "We're pleased to be welcoming Rebecca and Creative England to Pinewood. We've enjoyed a good relationship with the British Film Commission since its inception and have worked closely with Screen South over the years. By being based at Pinewood the Creative England team will have access to the some of the most talented crews, the biggest productions and nearly 200 independent companies associated with the screen based industries. Pinewood is one of the leading creative hubs in Europe and we hope Creative England will take every advantage of being here to progress the good work it is already doing."

  Creative England would like to encourage people with interesting properties to register on their database. For further information and how to register, visit:

  http://www.creativeengland.co.uk/index.php/locations-hints-and-tips/

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  17 Aug 2012

  Creative England to Launch New Crew Database at Elstree Studios Networking Event

  PG Business Partner, Creative England is to launch its new crew database at its forthcoming crew networking evening at PG Affiliate, Elstree Studios. The free database will cover all of the English regions and is being launched at the same time as a national locations database. The two will help complete the one stop shop service Creative England offers to productions filming in the English regions.

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  Creative England opened its doors as a single entity to take over from the work of the Regional Screen Agency network in October 2011. For the last year it has been developing and populating the two databases so that it is able to offer a comprehensive service to productions, from assisting with finding locations for a shoot to providing a list of local, available crew, anywhere in England outside London.

  The service is free for crew, production and facilities professionals to join, and Creative England also offers a face-to-face networking service, in the shape of the regular, nationwide crew nights.

  The Elstree event on September 19th will be the eighth in the nationwide programme, and comes just a couple of weeks ahead of Creative England's first anniversary. More than 1,200 professionals in film, TV and digital media have so far attended crew networking nights in Leeds, Birmingham, Bristol, Manchester, Nottingham, Brighton and Sheffield, and further events are due to take place in later in the year.

  Creative England opened an office at the studios in April and it is already a major creative hub in the film and television world, with shows such as Dancing on Ice, Who Wants to Be a Millionaire, Big Brother, and The Voice having been recorded there recently.

  Feedback from the events so far has been very positive, with both crew & facility houses having secured work through the crew night at the recent Sheffield event on an ITV Drama currently in pre-production in the Northwest.

  The events are part of Creative England's remit of ensuring continuity of the vibrant film and moving image culture outside London. The organization is responsible for supporting the regional film and television industries outside London and their convergence with the digital media sector.

  The Elstree evening will be sponsored by two partners: Brookson accountants, who offer specialist accountancy services for media and creative freelancers, and Towergate Professional Indemnity, which provides bespoke insurance services for the media industry.

  Kaye Elliott, Creative England's Head of Location and Production Services, said: "We're really excited to be able to launch the database at Elstree, which has been the home of so much terrific TV and film production. The crew nights have really taken off as they offer a variety of ways to help people get on and develop their careers. The databases will be an extension of this service, for both those working in crew and facilities and those looking to source crew and locations across England's regions. We're all about encouraging TV and film production in the English regions, and with these databases we'll be able to help with everything from finding crew to hotels and facilities. It's all part of the one stop shop service we are aiming to provide."

  Roger Morris, Managing Director of Elstree Studios, said: "The launch of the Creative England database at Elstree is very important for the whole East of England region. As probably one of the most prolific areas for film and TV production, not only is the regional database important for the East of England, but also the fact that its linked with the resource service across the whole of England giving producers and programme makers really for the first time easy and well informed access to this vast and impressive creative database."

  Creative England's team will be at Elstree on Wednesday, September 19 from 6pm-9pm.

  To sign up to the Elstree crew night, go to:
  http://crewproductionandfacilitiesseptemberelstree.eventbrite.com

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  10 Aug 2012

  Film London Reveals New Exhibition Funding

  Four projects will receive support from Film London's Cultural Film Exhibition Fund (CFEF) in recognition of excellence in the cultural film exhibition sector. Film London's funding will support projects that aim to increase audiences of British and World Cinema and provide rich cinematic experiences in the capital.

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  The recipients of the 2012/2013 CFEF awards are exhibitors which contribute to the breadth and diversity of audiences and content across London.

  With CFEF support, DocHouse and The Frontline Club will launch Between the Lines, a three day documentary festival exploring the issues around user-generated content, social networking, corporate influence and radical cuts to budgets across news rooms and broadcast networks. Following the festival, Between the Lines will host an additional six events at different venues across the capital.

  Scala Beyond, from Cinema Nation, is a UK-wide season celebrating all forms of independent cinema exhibition and will include screenings, events and discussions, highlighting the diversity, passion and enthusiasm of the people and organisations currently operating cinemas, venues, film festivals, clubs and societies.

  In addition to the core programme Scala Beyond will include new elements for London, such as 'Film Crawls', local walking tours of cinema heritage, creating an educational resource in partnership with FILMCLUB and 'Film Jam' which will see eight film clubs collaborating on a screening.

  Vault, as part of the annual East End Film Festival is a new interactive screening programme of multi platform film activity aimed at, and designed by, young people 15-21. It presents independent British, World and archive cinema complimented by discussions, Q&As and expert analysis designed to enrich the audience's knowledge of film and empower them to make to make new choices.

  Finally, funding has been awarded to Curzon Cinemas Limited for Curzon CineKids: Wind Back/Whizz On. A year-long project at Curzon Cinemas and satellite venues across the city, it will offer bi-monthly weekend screenings alternating between international films for children and screenings drawing on screen heritage archives. Each screening will 'Wind Back' to the past or 'Whizz On' to the present/future. The programme aims to give young children exposure to rich cinematic history and culture.

  CFEF is part of Film London's strategy to support the capital's film culture. Two other projects are under consideration for CFEF funding to be announced later this month. In addition, later this year the successful Community Pilot Fund (CPF) will reopen for applications. Awarding fixed grants of £3,000 to develop new grassroots film exhibition, education and archive activity, the CPF will again back innovative and community-based initiatives.

  The CFEF and CPF funds are supported through National Lottery on behalf of the BFI. 

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  10 Aug 2012

  Creative England Make £1 Million Investment in New Partnership with BBC and Channel 4

  Creative England has announced a one million pound boost for the digital creative sector with its latest round of funding into the Digital Fiction Factory (DFF). The investment will support small and medium sized companies (SMEs) across the North of England to develop new digital fiction formats for the BBC and Channel 4.

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  Described by Creative England's Director of Business Development, Jim Farmery, as a "21st century production and development centre," the Digital Fiction Factory is a unique creative partnership between Conker Media, the BBC, Channel 4 and Creative England, and marks one of the first creative commissioning partnerships between the two UK broadcasters.

  Funding packages of between £10,000 and £150,000 will be made available to companies to develop proof-of-concepts and prototypes which may be taken on to full production by either of the partner broadcasters.

  Following on from the recently announced £1m Business Investment Fund, this funding is the second strand to be made available through Creative England's new £5m Regional Growth Fund awarded by BIS to stimulate jobs and growth within the digital and creative sectors.

  Creative England confirmed that 244 businesses from the North West, Yorkshire and the North East are already part of the Digital Fiction Factory network and that it also expects to release details of further investments in to the games and animation businesses within the next 3 months.

  Newcastle-based web design agency, Riff Raff, is one of the companies lined up to take part in the programme. Managing Director, Alex Nichol, said: "The Digital Fiction Factory is great because it's helping to grow a community of seriously talented companies and individuals based outside London and giving them access to major broadcasters."

  Jim Farmery said: "The Digital Fiction Factory is an exciting new development for Creative England. It's the second tranche of our investments targeted at growing companies in the digital sector. It also represents an innovative new business model whereby the SME's we support can really get back what they put in to the projects. The intellectual property generated is shared between the SME and the DFF, so the companies we support will have the opportunity to maximise the potential of their ideas in other markets."

  Peter Salmon, Director BBC North, said: "The Digital Fiction Factory was originally created between the BBC and Conker Media to create a pan-industry partnership to find new ways to engage with the audience in the digital space. Following Channel 4's recent membership we are delighted that Creative England is now joining and that one of the first companies to benefit is a Newcastle-based digital company."

  Richard Davidson-Houston, Head of Online at Channel 4 said: "We're proud to be involved with the Digital Fiction Factory. It's great that Creative England has seen the potential and is joining in."

  Lee Hardman, founder-Director of The Digital Fiction Factory said: "We're delighted to welcome Creative England as a stakeholder-partner in the DFF which brings greater opportunity for the Creative and Academic networks across the North."

  More information on how businesses can become part of the Digital Fiction Factory is available here http://www.digitalfictionfactory.com.

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  08 Aug 2012

  BBC Studios And Post Production Confirms 2013 Move to Elstree Studios

  BBC Studios and Post Production today announced that from Spring 2013 it will provide TV studio services from PG Affiliate, Elstree Studios during the period while Television Centre is being redeveloped. Elstree Studios is near to the BBC Studios and Post Production's existing facilities at BBC Elstree, where they currently make EastEnders as well as shows for ITV (Odd One In), Sky (A League of Their Own) and other broadcasters and independent production companies. 

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  BBC Studios and Post Production is a commercial subsidiary of the BBC providing world-class television studios, post production and digital media services.

  Last month BBC Studios and Post Production confirmed it will lease new state-of-the-art studio production space in the completed Television Centre scheme from 2015. This will include returning to a brand new Studio 1 at the new production centre, currently the home of shows including Strictly Come Dancing and Children In Need.

  The arrangement with Elstree Studios includes BBC Studios and Post Production investing in the Elstree Studios complex and offering a mix of fully equipped high-definition television studio spaces.

  Between the two studio complexes at Elstree Studios and BBC Elstree, BBC Studios and Post Production will be able to offer a range of studios and stages for television production: BBC Elstree's Studio D at 11,200 sq ft, which includes integrated audience seating, Elstree Studios' fully HD equipped Stages 8 and 9 each at 7,500 sq ft, and use of the famed George Lucas Stages at 15,600 sq ft each – as well as additional studio spaces, production and post production areas and offices as required.

  The BBC Studios Television Centre HD technology will be temporarily relocated to Elstree Studios, allowing the company to continue to provide its production services while away from Television Centre.

  BBC Studios and Post Production will continue to offer a wide range of post-production services, including SD, HD and 3D editing, high-end effects and sound. Their Digital Media Services business which preserves re-masters and manages content will relocate to a dedicated and permanent home in West London around the start of 2013.

  Clive Hodge, Interim CEO for BBC Studios and Post Production said: "Our mix of studio facilities located at these two well established complexes at Elstree provides an excellent working solution for our customers while Television Centre is being redeveloped. Our expert technical, creative and project management staff will all be moving with us and we'll be investing in both Elstree Studio sites to ensure we continue to provide our clients with the range of services and experience they have come to expect from us."

  Roger Morris, Managing Director of Elstree Studios said: "This arrangement with BBC Studios and Post Production will make Elstree Studios the number one destination for television production in London. We are already the home to Dancing on Ice, Who wants to be a Millionaire?, Big Brother, and this year The Voice, Red or Black and various other major television shows. Now having the expertise, management and technical resources of BBC Studios and Post Production working with us, combined with the significant investments we are both making in the Studios, I cannot imagine a better offering in the facilities market place for television producers. It's a very exciting opportunity for both of us." 

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  03 Aug 2012

  Creative England Launches New £1 Million Fund for Creative & Digital Business Development

  Creative England is launching a new national business development fund of up to a million pounds to support creative and digital businesses across the English regions. Registration is now open for small to medium-sized companies looking to develop new software, applications and content within several markets.

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  Applicable Markets for the Fund include:

   • Cross Platform TV development
   • Healthcare
   • Government Services
   • Games and Interactive Entertainment
   • Business To Business
   • E-Learning
   • Mobile applications

  It will typically support companies looking to develop new cross-platform applications or content related to new applications for the above markets. Proposals such as a mobile healthcare application, the development of a new game for tablet or mobile, or e-government content linked to a new service delivery model, may all be eligible for funding.

  Creative England will make the funding available via interest free loans of between £50,000 and £100,000 per application, which will be matched 50/50 with the company sharing the development costs.

  The Business Development Fund is designed to support companies who have innovative new ideas for content development backed with commercial exploitation opportunities. It will be open to SMEs outside London, with priority given to companies based in the North, West Midlands and South West, which relates to the Regional Growth Fund objective to prioritise support for areas that have been overly dependent on public sector employment.

  This is the first element of the £5m award from the Government's Regional Growth Fund to Creative England in April 2012. This private sector-led scheme aims to provide development funding and market expertise to small creative and digital businesses working in cross-platform content and services.

  Creative England is to offer increasingly specialist support to games, digital and creative services, making the organisation the first joined up, dedicated support agency for the creative industries outside London.

  JIM FARMERY, Creative England's Director of Business Development, said: "By launching this programme I hope we can stimulate the development of some really interesting content and applications and support projects that otherwise would have struggled to get off the ground".

  Enterprise Minister MARK PRISK said: "Small businesses are the lifeblood of the economy, and we want to encourage more people to discover their entrepreneurial spirit and exploit new opportunities. This scheme, which has benefitted from the Regional Growth Fund is the right kind of support to help creative and digital businesses get off the ground and develop new and exciting content.

  "Whether it's creating jobs or boosting manufacturing capability, the regional growth fund shows the difference that Government and the private sector can make when working together. It is real projects like these which will unlock private sector investment to boost local economic growth and rebalance the economy."

  The deadline for Registrations of Interest is Friday the 31st August.

  Read the FAQ's, guidelines and apply using the form on the Creative Business Support & Growth pages by clicking here.
  

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  02 Aug 2012

  New CEO of UK Screen Association Announced

  The board of UK Screen Association has confirmed the appointment of Sarah Mackey as its CEO. Mackey, who has been involved with the organisation previously as a board member and most recently as Acting CEO, replaces Gaynor Davenport with effect from July 1st.

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  Mackey has been involved in the facilities industry for over a decade and was most recently Director of Strategy at BBC Studios and Post Production, where she represented the company on the boards of 3sixtymedia and UK Screen.

  Sarah Mackey, Chief Executive at UK Screen stated, "I am delighted to be continuing in the role at such an exciting time for the Association. Our membership comprises a wealth of creativity and expertise, which is crucial to the economic success of the wider industry. I'm very proud to represent them all."

  Steve Norris, Chairman of UK Screen and Honorary PG Member commented, "In making this appointment, the entire board was genuinely delighted to be able to secure someone of Sarah's experience and ability to work on behalf of the whole sector. We all look forward to taking on the challenges of the coming year with her at the helm."

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  02 Aug 2012

  Help to Shape Future of UK Film and Television Industries in Industry Wide Creative Skillset Census

  Creative Skillset is asking tens of thousands of companies to take part in an industry-wide census. You can help Creative Skillset make sure that the Film & TV industry has the information it needs to thrive in the global market.  The deadline to be involved and to submit your application is Friday 17th August 2012 and the survey can simply be filled in online or by postal form.

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  By completing the census you will be directly influencing how Creative Skillset uses and levers funds to ensure we have a highly skilled, world class workforce.

  This year Creative Skillset has made important changes to make it easier for everyone to participate online. It is more important than ever that you take part – in this challenging economic climate our industry needs to be armed with as much information as possible to ensure that work responds to the changing needs of the sector.

  As many employers as possible are being urged to fill in a questionnaire on census day - Wednesday, July 4th - or as close as possible to that date. Your company will receive a postal census form in the week prior to census day or can complete online at http://www.creativeskillset.org/research/activity/census. Remember if you don't take part you can't be counted.

  For further information please contact Anna Chourdaki (annac@creativeskillset.org; 020 7713 9820).

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  31 Jul 2012

  BFC to Receive £400k Funding through New UKTI Partnership

  UK Film Minister Ed Vaizey announces today that UK Trade & Investment (UKTI) and the British Film Commission (BFC) will form a new strategic partnership. UKTI will provide an additional £400k over two years to the BFC's budget and enable the commission to maximise its impact across the globe, driving further investment to the UK.

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  Combining the BFC's film expertise and relationships with the wide international coverage offered by the UKTI network, the partnership provides a vital opportunity to grow inward investment and extend the UK's international commercial activity through film. It will also allow the BFC to maximise the benefits of the proposed TV tax credits if it goes ahead in April 2013.

  Adrian Wootton, Chief Executive of the British Film Commission and Film London, said: "This is fantastic news for the British film industry and the UK economy. We have seen huge investment from the US studios, which is in part thanks to the BFC having a dedicated team working directly with producers and decision makers in North America."

  He continued, "This partnership will allow us to extend that remit, driving new investment in the UK. We have the facilities and the talent in the UK to welcome additional film and high end TV production. Following our work with key national public and private industry partners laying the groundwork for the potential TV tax credit, we are delighted to be working with UKTI to exploit that, grow our commercial activity and forge new networks in the emerging markets."

  Trade and Investment Minister Lord Green said: "The UK has one of the strongest creative content sectors in the world and I am delighted that this partnership with Film London and the British Film Commission has been forged to increase investment in the UK film industry. With the world's spotlight on the UK this summer we are working hard through the British Business Embassy programme to enable companies to capitalise on the unique opportunity we have in 2012 to secure new trade and investment."

  The BFC is the national body in charge of encouraging and supporting international feature film production to the UK, it promotes and supports the UK film and TV production infrastructure and liaises between the UK Government and industry on legislative issues that impact on film production.

  Its current remit focuses on film and attracting investment from the US. The partnership with UKTI, along with crucial funding, will allow the BFC to effectively extend its remit to global territories, and specifically capitalise on the opportunities presented by emerging markets and international high end TV production.

  The partnership is part of UKTI's 'Open for Business' strategy which encourages new partnerships and strategic relationships that will help realise government's ambitions for growth through international business.

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  26 Jul 2012

  Join Creative England's New National Crew & Facilities Database

  PG Business Partner, Creative England is launching a national crew & facilities database covering all the English regions and searchable by job grade, facility type, location and skills.  You can now join it and become part of this dedicated new database for the English regions. Joining is FREE and takes just 5 minutes. 

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  Through their new system, Creative England will offer to:

   • Cover all genres of production – feature film, drama, commercial, documentary. 

   • Post out jobs via the site on behalf of production companies Creative England are working with.

   • Work with the various guilds, unions and associations.

   • Join up the crew database with our national crew nights to increase opportunities for those registered.

   • Cover the English regions outside London.

   • Be a joined up service with the production and location team.

   • Not be a faceless service, you can talk to us direct about your crewing needs and we can offer bespoke crew calls to your target group.

  To register with the new database, please click here.

  For any queries, contact Nicky Ball, Crew & Facilities Manager (National) nicky.ball@creativeengland.co.uk.

  You can also sign up for their newsletter at http://www.creativeengland.co.uk/ or follow them on twitter @CEnglandprodn.

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  25 Jul 2012

  Michael Gubbins Named as Chairman of Film Agency for Wales

  Film consultant and journalist Michael Gubbins has been named as the new Chairman of the Film Agency for Wales. He replaces Peter Edwards whose term ends this summer.

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  Gubbins, 47, is the former editor of Screen International (2004-2009) and is now best known for his work on digital change in film and other media. He is also the former editor of Music Week, and business technology journal Computing.

  His consultancy company, MCG Film and Media, has produced influential strategic reports for film agencies and public bodies around Europe, covering all aspects of the industry from production to exhibition. Clients have included Cine Regio, Europa Cinemas, the Swedish Film Institute, UK Film Council, Power to the Pixel and the European Think Tank.

  Gubbins also chairs major conferences and events around the world, particularly those focused on the changing film business. Recent work includes the EU Competencies In Culture conference in Warsaw, the Danish Film Institute, Europa Cinemas, Europa Distribution, and events at the Cannes, Berlin, London, Edinburgh and Rotterdam film festivals.

  During his 25-year career in newspapers and magazines, he was news editor of the South Wales Evening Post in Swansea, one of a number of connections to Wales.

  He also directed a short film in Cardiff, as part of the prestigious Fujifilm Scholarship scheme, and was a student at the University of Glamorgan.

  Gubbins said it was an honour and a responsibility to accept the role at a time of great change in the film industry and that the strength of the Film Agency of Wales was testament to the work of outgoing Chairman Peter Edwards.

  Gubbins commented, "The passion, commitment and exceptional leadership of Peter have helped build an organisation of national and international importance. That legacy can be seen in the talent that has been discovered and nurtured in Wales and in the building of strong organisational foundations, which will be so essential in the exciting and challenging times ahead for film in Wales.

  "The Film Agency of Wales has also been a leader in promoting film in schools, while at the same time keeping an international focus in an increasingly globalised market. The agency has made a strong impact in social, cultural and commercial terms and it is vital that this sense of purpose and direction continues.

  "I am looking forward to working with the chief executive Pauline Burt and the excellent team at FAW, and with the other members of an experienced board, in ensuring that film in Wales makes its mark at home on the international stage."

  Commenting on the appointment, Peter Edwards said: " Michael has an international reputation for his work in film: chairing major conferences, think tanks and workshops around the world; helping formulate public policy and business strategy; and writing influential reports read at the highest levels. His work has covered all aspects of film and policy, from talent development and finance, production, sales and export and all forms of distribution and exhibition. He has particular expertise in digital and cross-media change and also brings knowledge of television, music and publishing."

  "This is a time of great importance for the Welsh film sector with new opportunities arising through increased lottery funding post-Olympics; newly defined strategic priorities from the BFI; and significant on-going change to business models, with increased digital uptake. The Film Agency for Wales is at the centre of those discussions, working on behalf of filmmakers, cinemas, festivals, film education practitioners and most importantly, the Welsh public. We want to deliver a diverse range of high quality films, made with Welsh talent, benefiting Welsh companies, to a growing audience at home and internationally."

  Nick Capaldi, Chief Executive of the Arts Council of Wales, said: "The Film Agency for Wales has a close and important partnership with the Arts Council, and we value the work that the Agency does to promote the development of film activity in Wales. We thank Peter Edwards for his many years of service to the Film Agency and look forward to working with Mike Gubbins as he takes the helm."

  Sally Griffiths, Head of Cinema at Chapter Arts Centre adds: "Michael's appointment is a really exciting for film culture in Wales and how we are viewed internationally. He has a keen awareness of the issues faced by the diverse film exhibition sector existing in Wales and the great many opportunities that exist. I look forward to the continuing development of a vibrant and relevant film culture in Wales and the new perspectives that Michael will bring to that for producers, directors and exhibitors alike."

  Kate Crowther, film producer says: "I'm delighted to welcome Mike Gubbins as Chair of the FAW board. Mike brings a wealth of talent and experience which will be invaluable to Welsh film makers going forward. In particular, his expertise in distribution and the digital revolution will be vital to the Welsh film industry's continued progress within the international market." 

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  25 Jul 2012

  Applications Open for Northern Ireland Screen Trade Mission to Toronto International Film Festival 2012

  Northern Ireland Screen is seeking to lead a trade mission of Northern Ireland film-makers to the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) which takes place from 6-16 September 2012.

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  Northern Ireland Screen will offer financial assistance with travel, accommodation and registration fee up to a maximum of 75% of the total costs, or £1,650, whichever is the lesser amount. This amount is available per company (not per individual).

  There are strict eligibility criteria in place for trade missions, for which you must supply evidence.

  Full Trade Missions general guidelines are available to download by clicking here. Please read these guidelines before you decide to apply. In addition, please note that for the TIFF 2012, the supplemental criteria are:

  • For the purposes of this trade mission, a film-maker is either a producer or a director.

  • If you are a director, you must attend with your producing partner.

  • Northern Ireland Screen will not fund directors to attend TIFF without the producer of the project also being present.

  • This offer is currently not open to writers.

  • You must be a Northern Ireland Screen client with EITHER at least one feature film currently in development with Northern Ireland Screen OR a Northern Ireland Screen client with a film in competitive section in the Festival, for which Northern Ireland Screen has provided production funding.

  • As places are strictly limited, Northern Ireland Screen will be treating eligible applications on both a first come first served basis and on perceived readiness of company and project(s) to participate.

  • If your application is successful, you must commit to attend a Northern Ireland Screen briefing meeting (date and time TBC). This is not negotiable. If you apply to participate in the trade mission, are accepted and then fail to turn up for the briefing, you will be disqualified from participating and any monies paid out will have to be repaid.

  • If your application is successful, you must commit to register for a Sales and Industry pass at TIFF. Please note that registration closes 24th August.

  • If your application is successful, you must make provision to be in Toronto for the UK event which is planned for 10th September.

  Trade Missions are made possible through the Northern Ireland Screen Marketing Department budget, supported by Invest NI and part funded by the European Regional Development Fund.

  Full details of how to apply can be found near the bottom of the Trade Missions page on the Northern Ireland Screen Website.  You can visit this page by clicking here.
  

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  24 Jul 2012

  New CEO of The Production Guild of Great Britain Named as Alison Small

  The Production Guild of Great Britain (PG) is delighted to announce that Alison Small has been appointed as its new Chief Executive Officer. Alison will take up the post based at Pinewood Studios, in mid-September 2012.

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  The Production Guild of Great Britain (PG) is delighted to announce that Alison Small has been appointed as its new Chief Executive Officer. Alison will take up the post based at Pinewood Studios, in mid-September 2012.

  Alison brings a wealth and range of experience to PG and joins from her current position as the inaugural Director of the Creative Skillset Craft and Technical Skills Academy and as current Chair of membership organisation, Women in Film and Television. Alison is also a long-standing PG Member.

  Prior to joining the Academy, Alison worked as a freelance consultant and project manager to the international film and TV production communities. She also spent eight years working at the Office of the British Film Commissioner at UK Film Council, where she was directly involved in several key industry negotiations and agreements, alongside developing strategies to increase opportunities and finance for the UK.

  Spending just over a year at the Academy's helm, she led the organisation in supporting UK film production by investing in the skills of emerging talent and film professionals within the craft and technical departments. This included providing UK productions with trainees and aiming to streamline the complex training landscape for productions, ensuring the mechanisms for finding and nurturing new talent is in place for UK film crew to remain world class and setting up the systems for marketing and promoting the work of the Academy and the successful graduates. The Academy has also directly worked with PG who has run the 'Introduction to Film Production' training course for Academy trainees on multiple occasions at Pinewood Studios.

  As a freelance consultant, Alison has also been commissioned by PG to lead several projects. This included researching and writing a report on the US industry's perceptions of UK financial control and production accounting, which involved interviewing heads of finance of the US studios and independents, UK PG members and affiliate companies, concluding with a set of recommendations; as well as producing the 2010 PG annual review. The review which is sent to members, affiliates and business partners is designed to clearly showcase, analyse and provide statistics for all of the various areas and functions that PG covers during the calendar year.

  Commenting on her appointment, Alison said, "I'm delighted to be taking up this opportunity of becoming the CEO of The Production Guild. I look forward to developing the work with the board and the membership and plan to ensure that the members remain internationally recognised as world class, and that PG continues to be recognised as a highly effective organisation that represents the senior production and accounts personnel in the UK film and TV industry, and an authoritative voice on film production in the UK."

  Alison's appointment follows a rigorous recruitment process, which saw applications from a wide range of experienced UK film industry personnel. All of the initial applications were looked at by the PG Executive Committee and culminated with a round of interviews for the final seven short listed candidates, led by PG Chairman, Kevin Trehy, Senior Vice President of Physical Production at Warner Bros.

  Kevin commented, "I am delighted to welcome Alison to the position of CEO of the Guild and I am confident that she will continue the great work that has seen the organisation and its members recognised as such an important component of the British Film Industry. The standing of the organisation was reflected in the quality of the applicants for the role and I am confident we are in good hands moving forward." 

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  19 Jul 2012

  Twickenham Studios Sale Completed with New Buyer and COO Revealed

  The successful acquisition of Twickenham Film Studios (TFS) has been completed by Twickenham Studios Ltd. (TSL), a consortium led by hotelier, Sunny Vohra who is now in place as Managing Director of TSL. The new owners have stated that they will work with existing staff and management to plan the refurbishments and improvements at the Studios, raising the standard of services and technology offered to the industry.

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  It is also hoped that there will be increased employment opportunities at the Studios with investment in additional staff, with the aim to make the Studio a hive of creativity and an exceptional place to work.

  The Studios have been in constant operation for almost one hundred years providing quality stages and post-production facilities for film and television productions and celebrations of that achievement will now continue through the coming year.

  It was also announced that Maria Walker has been appointed to the newly created position of Chief Operating Officer for TFS. In this capacity she will be responsible for Sales, Marketing and ongoing business development.

  Maria recently spearheaded the "Save Twickenham Studios" campaign, bringing the local community and leading industry figures together as a show of support to keep the Studios active. The new owners stated that they were impressed with the enthusiasm, energy and commitment that Maria made to the campaign.

  Commenting on her appointment, Maria Walker said, "The recent press, industry and public interest in the Studios has shown how important the Studios are to the industry and to the borough of Richmond and local commmunity. It is our intention to work closely with all parties to provide a facility that enhances the local area."

  She continued, "I am extremely honoured to have been given this opportunity to reactivate the studio and am looking forward to the challenges ahead. TFS has been delivering excellence to the industry for almost one hundred years and in my role I want to see that continue."

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  19 Jul 2012

  British Film Commission Appoints New EVP of US Production

  Kattie Kotok has been appointed as the Executive Vice President of US Production for the British Film Commission (BFC) located in LA. Kotok, who joins the BFC from National Geographic Films (NGF) where she was the Vice President of Acquisitions and Production, has a strong background in development and production and has almost 15 years experience working within the film industry.

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  Kotok on accepting the BFC position said, "I am excited to be heading up the US operations of the British Film Commission. I have always admired and appreciated the talent, projects and practices in the UK and now feel honoured to service as a key liaison between the US and UK film industries."

  At NGF Kotok led on all acquisitions for the company and was instrumental in buying, editing and distributing high profile titles including Oscar-winning March of the Penguins. Kotok also worked in film development with Fox Searchlight Pictures and marketing at Paramount Pictures on titles such as One Hour Photo and A Simple Plan.

  "We are delighted to welcome Kattie to the BFC. She has a wealth of experience and an excellent network of relationships with the international industry which will make her an extremely valuable asset to our inward investment strategy with the US and to our existing team." Adrian Wootton, Chief Executive of British Film Commission and Film London.

  The BFC is the national body in charge of encouraging and supporting international feature film production to the UK. The Executive Vice President, US Production is central to the BFC's successful inward investment strategy and is responsible for US business development and client relations.

  You can visit the BFC website at http://www.britishfilmcommission.org.uk.

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  19 Jul 2012

  The Dark Knight Rises Breaks All-Time Pre-Sale Box Office Records at BFI IMAX

  Having already taken in over £1 million in advance bookings at the BFI IMAX alone, The Dark Knight Rises which opens this Friday has broken the all-time pre-sale record at Britain's largest cinema screen.  15 PG Members worked on the Warner Bros production within the Production, Accounts and Locations Departments and the film also took on one of the Guild's Assistant Production Accountant Training Scheme (APATS) trainees.

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  Tickets for the eagerly awaited final part of Christopher Nolan's Batman trilogy went on sale at the IMAX five weeks ago, and the BFI has confirmed that they have now exceeded 62,300 sales.

  This surpasses the previous advance sales record at the venue, held by James Cameron's Avatar, which in December 2009 shifted 47,000 tickets, grossing £607,000.

  Forty-three shows are now sold out, which includes two early bird screenings this weekend at 04.25 and 04.55.

  The Dark Knight Rises has already smashed BFI IMAX records for highest first day sales (24,754 tickets grossing £409,838) and the highest first week sales (38,658 tickets, taking £634,013). These records were set earlier this summer by Ridley Scott's Prometheus.

  The previous entry in Nolan's Batman series, The Dark Knight, was the first time that a major feature film was partially shot with IMAX cameras. But Nolan's latest uses the technology more extensively, with over an hour of footage in the IMAX format.

  Dennis Laws, BFI IMAX General and Technical Manager commented, "These figures prove that seeing The Dark Knight Rises in IMAX, to truly experience Christopher Nolan's incredible vision for the film, is an unmissable event this summer. People are even flying in from abroad especially to see the film at BFI IMAX."

  PG Members who worked on The Dark Knight Rises include:

  Simon Emanuel - Unit Production Manager (UK)
  Michael Murray - Production Manager (Cardington)
  Sam Mill - Production Co-ordinator (UK)
  Michelle Wraight - Production Co-ordinator (UK)
  Matthew Jenkins - Travel and Shipping Co-ordinator
  Yuen-Wai Liu - Production Secretary
  Matt Dalton - Construction Accountant (UK)
  Melanie Lawrence - Construction Accountant
  Jane Trower - Payroll Accountant (UK)
  Penelope Robinson - Location Accountant
  Shawn Fleming - Location Accountant
  Dougal Cadiou - UK 1st Assistant Accountant
  Nazmeen Dhansey - Assistant Accountant (UK)
  Susan R Wall - Accounts Assistant
  Catherine Francis - PG Accounts Trainee

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  13 Jul 2012

  Creative England and The Production Guild Agree New Partnership

  The Production Guild of Great Britain is delighted to announce that Creative England has taken up a Business Partnership with The Production Guild (PG). The new relationship with Creative England will ensure that PG can consider the needs and requirements of the regions as well as supplying training, events, information and services throughout England.

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  Within the new partnership, which is effective immediately, PG looks forward to gaining input from Creative England for the new initiatives it will be working on in the year ahead. This can only prove beneficial to the needs of the Guild's individual members as well as its affiliates and other business partners.

  The Production Guild and Creative England will now work together on a number of events, both regionally and in London to promote awareness of industry issues, concerns and training to the entire English filmmaking community and to promote the functions of both organisations and their members / stakeholders going forward.

  The partnership will also enable Creative England to have a constant presence at all PG events, training courses and seminars, encouraging the sharing of essential experience and skills between the two organisations to help develop the knowledge base of the Guild's membership and the wider filmmaking community.

  Launched in October 2011, Creative England supports the sustainable growth of independent creative businesses, and the talent that feeds them, in every part of England outside London. Its mission is to develop the film, television, games, digital and creative sectors in the English regions. Its work includes investing in talent, growing businesses, boosting audience access, production support, improving market intelligence and encouraging innovation.

  Based at Pinewood Studios, The Production Guild of Great Britain represents the professional interests of senior film and television industry practitioners both within the United Kingdom as well as overseas. Working alongside Creative Skillset, the Guild is also one of the leading film and television industry bodies to provide recognised training courses and seminars, many of which are open to non-members and the wider industry. The Guild also constantly works closely with a wide range of other industry bodies and provides strong support to its membership, taking an active role in negotiations for new industry legislation and agreements and keeping in regular contact with production companies, broadcasters and major US studios regarding the professional availability of its members.

  Emily Stillman, CEO of The Production Guild commented, "We are delighted to welcome Creative England into Production Guild as Business Partners. We look forward to extending our provisions through the regions in order satisfy our regional members, whilst also ensuring that the PG membership as a whole can benefit from the regional infrastructure that Creative England is developing.

  She continued, "Creative England is a key industry organisation and an appropriate complement to our existing Business Partners – Panavision, Pinewood Studios, The Location Collective and Network Rail. It is fantastic to see the Business Partnership support for The Production Guild across the different areas of the industry; it is a testament to how the organisation has evolved over the last few years and how hard the team have been working."

  Kaye Elliott, Creative England's Head of Location and Production Services, said: "Becoming a business partner of The Production Guild is a natural fit for Creative England. We are developing a range of support services for production companies, freelancers and facilities including networking evenings, national databases and a series of film friendly partnerships with local authorities to improve the environment for filming across England. Working with the Guild will be another way in which we can round out the services we can offer to production freelancers across the English regions.

  "The Production Guild does a fantastic job for its members in keeping them up to date with information and opportunities, and representing their interests at a national level. We are looking forward to working with them to ensure the best possible support is available throughout England."

  To view the Creative England Business Partner Page on the PG Website, please click here.

  To view the Creative England Website, please visit http://www.creativeengland.co.uk.

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  13 Jul 2012

  Ingenious Initiates Legal Action Against The Times and HMRC

  Following reports in The Times regarding possible tax avoidance within the UK Film Industry, Ingenious Media has announced it has begun legal action against the newspaper and HMRC. Ingenious stated that "the authors of these pieces fully acknowledged the legality of the business arrangements cited in their coverage. However, in the process of referencing partnerships established by other providers they made insinuations about some of Ingenious' film partnerships."

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  Ingenious issued a statement through their own website, publically announcing the legal action, which follows on from the BFI's statement in reaction to the reports within The Times.

  The full statement from Ingenious is below:

  Ingenious has never been in the business of tax avoidance. We are an advisory and investment business focusing primarily on the creative industries operating through trading divisions in private equity, corporate finance and asset management.
  
  Our Film Sale & Leaseback partnerships were established as a direct result of specific legislation to stimulate investment into the British film industry introduced in 1997. This government sponsored initiative brought much needed investment into the flagship industry of the UK’s flourishing creative sector. It did so by creating for film investors a deferral of tax, not the avoidance of it. Our partnerships not only operated in accordance with the legislation, complying fully with detailed guidance notes published by HMRC, they also subsequently received HMRC approval.
  
  All our film production partnerships are bona fide commercial ventures as evidenced by the nature of the films produced and the box office income and profits generated. All of the worldwide income attributable to the production of these films is fully taxable here in the UK. None of the partnership income is transferred overseas as may have been implied in the press articles in question.
  
  Our film production partnerships have been responsible for many highly regarded and profitable films which have generated UK taxable receipts significantly greater than the initial tax relief given. The films produced are self evidently commercial. They include Avatar, Night at the Museum, Girl with a Pearl Earring, Happy-Go-Lucky, StreetDance 3D, The Descendants, The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel, Rise of the Planet of the Apes and Shaun of the Dead. Even those films that do not fully recoup their costs give rise to a charge to UK tax on the income they generate.
  
  Our dealings with HMRC have always been fully transparent. Our film production partnerships were notified to HMRC Film Policy Unit prior to their launch and received its tacit approval at that time. Although we subsequently received various written assurances from HMRC that our film partnerships complied with proper accounting and trading rules, after seven years we had still not received full clearance by the end of 2011. That is why we asked for the matter to be brought to a conclusion by an independent tribunal.
  
  We are proud to have financed almost 100 films to date. We have generated some £600m of taxable receipts with a further £1billion of taxable receipts expected to be generated over the commercial life of these films.

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  13 Jul 2012

  Economic Impact of Sky Detailed in New Report

  The impact made by Sky on the UK economy is revealed for the first time in a comprehensive, independent study conducted by the leading economic consultancy, Oxford Economics. Findings include a £5.4 billion contribution to the GDP in 2011, a £2.3 billion tax contribution and support for almost 120,000 UK jobs. 
  

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  The report, The Economic Impact of Sky on the UK, finds that Sky makes a significant contribution to the economy in terms of GDP, jobs and taxes paid. It also shows how the company has stimulated economic activity in a wide range of associated companies and industries, through relationships with thousands of UK suppliers and business partners. The report concludes: "Sky's footprint is UK wide and its contribution is felt in almost every part of the country."

  The key findings from the study include:

  Contribution to GDP:

   • Sky is estimated to support a £5.4 billion contribution to UK GDP in calendar 2011.
   • In that year, Sky generated sales of £6.4 billion and over 75% of this revenue was retained in the UK.
   • Sky's direct contribution to GDP of £2.2bn is equivalent to around 40% of the contribution made by the entire TV and radio creative sector in the UK.
   • For every £1 billon Sky contributes directly to GDP itself, it generates another £1.4 billion in the rest of the economy through its purchase of goods and services and staff spending their wages.
   • In 2011 Sky used 4,000 suppliers across the UK, including 645 independent suppliers in sports production and 110 independent producers in entertainment and the arts.

  Contribution to jobs:

   • At the end 2011, Sky employed 22,800 people in the UK, more than half as many as the entire pharmaceuticals industry. This included 9,400 people in London, 6,430 in Scotland, and 1,560 in Yorkshire and Humberside.
   • 2,600 people are employed by Sky in producing and commissioning content. This is set to grow as Sky increases its investment in original British content to £600 million by 2014. By the end of 2011, Sky had already increased its UK content spend to £450 million a year.
   • In the last three years, Sky has hired 3,800 young people (16 to 24 years), including nearly 300 graduate trainees and apprentices.
   • Sky employs 800 engineers in software development and testing, representing 1% of all people employed in the UK's software development industry.
   • Sky supports thousands more jobs through the suppliers it uses and the products and services it procures.
   • In total Sky is estimated to support 118,600 jobs in the UK through its procurement of goods and services and consumer spending out of the wage income of its staff. This includes 1.2% of all employment in London and 0.6% of all jobs in Scotland.

  Contribution to tax revenues:

   • In the financial year 2010/2011, Sky directly contributed a total of £941 million to the Exchequer.
   • Of this, £337 million came through corporation tax and business rates, with the balance collected on behalf of HM Treasury through employees' labour taxes and customers' VAT payments.
   • In total, Sky is estimated to support a £2.3 billion contribution to tax revenues, including Sky's procurement of inputs and direct and indirect staff spending is included. This is equivalent to £36 for every person in the UK.

  Jeremy Darroch, Sky's Chief Executive, comments:

  "We have grown rapidly since our business was established just over 20 years ago. Along the way we have taken risks, invested billions of pounds and been a driving force for innovation and change in our sector. As a result we have transformed UK consumers' experience of television and home communications, while generating significant returns for our shareholders and contributing positively to the UK economy as a whole.

  "This report from Oxford Economics measures and explains the scale of our economic impact for the first time. We hope that Sky's story provides a good example of the important contribution that a successful British company can make, particularly at a time when economic growth is harder to come by. As we look ahead, our appetite to invest remains strong and we hope to contribute even more in the future."

  You can view the full report by clicking here.
  

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  11 Jul 2012

  TV and Animation Represented as Four New Members Appointed to Creative Scotland Board

  Four new members have been appointed to the Board of PG Affiliate, Creative Scotland, coming from a range of backgrounds and experience including TV, animation and education. Culture Secretary Fiona Hyslop announced the appointment of the new members and three reappointed members.

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  The new members of the Creative Scotland Board are:

  Fergus Muir - educated at Edinburgh University, Edinburgh College of Art and the City University, London. He worked in the arts in London for ten years, and then joined the Home Civil Service in 1992, where his responsibilities included Head of Architecture in the Department for Culture Media and Sport. In 2003 Fergus was sent to Iraq where he worked as a member of the cultural team in the interim Iraq Government. In 2004 Fergus was awarded an OBE for his work in Iraq and was also made an Honorary Fellow of the Royal Institute of British Architects. In 2007 Fergus returned to his birthplace – the island of Islay in Argyll – where he runs a tourism-based business. Since returning to Islay Fergus has worked towards learning Gaelic and is President of the Islay Gaelic Choir.

  May Miller – brings to the board experience from her long career in broadcasting both in the public and private sector. As Creative Director of Arts and Factual at BBC Scotland she oversaw an extensive range of output including the Culture Show, Artworks, Live 8 and the Film Programme with Jonathan Ross. Most recently she was Head of TalkbackTHAMES Scotland and prior to that, Head of Mentorn Scotland. May is currently deputy chair of BAFTA in Scotland, a member of RTS and a graduate of Common Purpose. Her main interests are music, architecture, film, TV and Northern Renaissance art.

  Richard Scott – brings to the board over 25 years' experience in the creative industries with a background in design and animation. Richard is the Managing Director and Executive Producer of Axis Animation, Scotland's fastest growing animation studio. The studio has won BAFTA, Cannes Gold Lions and London International awards. Richard has spent the last four years growing the studio's international reputation in Europe and the USA by building relationships with well-known names in the entertainment industry such as Warner Bros, Microsoft Games Studios, Disney, Sega and Sony Pictures. Throughout this time Richard has also been involved with Scottish colleges and art schools as well as speaking at a range of creative industry events.

  Sandra Gunn – brings to the board extensive experience at all levels in the delivery of creative education. Sandra is an external examiner for Robert Gordon University and an associate assessor for Education Scotland. She is also the curriculum director at City of Glasgow College where she is responsible for the portfolio of art and design, creative industries, sport and food and hospitality. Sandra has also delivered papers on various aspects of 'art and design' education and economic opportunities in India, Hong Kong and China. Sandra initially trained as a fine artist, followed in mid career by a Master of Architecture reflecting her expertise and interests in architecture and design. She has participated in the commissioning of major public art works in Glasgow and has designed stonemasonry pieces installed at Highgrove House.

  These new appointees join Peter Cabrelli, Steve Grimmond and Barclay Price whose terms as members of the Board have been extended for another four years and expire on 30 June 2016.

  Peter Cabrelli – brings to the board over 25 years' international business experience, most recently as Group Human Resources Director of HBOS plc where he was closely involved in the large and complex merger of Bank of Scotland and the Halifax. Educated at St Andrews University and the London School of Economics, Peter has wide board-level experience, including directorship of several service subsidiaries of the Pearson Group. He has a broad view of business and cultural practices, having previously worked in London, Europe, Africa, and the Middle and Far East, including spells with ITT in Brussels and with Standard Chartered Bank in Hong Kong. Peter combines keen and regular theatre-going (he is Director of the National Theatre of Scotland) with an active involvement in sport and recreation as Chairman of the National Playing Fields Association in Scotland. He is also a Non-executive Member at the University of St Andrews and is Chairman of the Trustees of the university's pension plan and was a member of the Board of Creative Scotland 2009 Limited.

  Steve Grimmond – brings broad experience as Executive Director, Environment, Enterprise and Communities at Fife Council with responsibilities spanning culture and sport, planning, economic development, transportation, housing, environment, sustainability and emergency planning. He has also held a range of senior positions in the public sector. He is a Fellow of the Royal Society for Arts and Science. He is a Governor of Adam Smith College; a Board Member of the Scottish Sports Council Trust Company and The Collective Gallery, Edinburgh. He paints and has been a musician in his spare time.

  Barclay Price – brings wide experience spanning employment in a bank; setting up and performing in a community-based theatre company; supporting the creation of small craft businesses; developing cultural policy; and engaging business with the arts. He worked in London for over 25 years and returned to Scotland to be Depute Director of the Scottish Arts Council. In 2001 he became the Scottish Office Director of Arts & Business, an organisation that works to encourage business engagement with, and support for, the cultural sector.
  These appointments and reappointments will be for four years and will run from July 1, 2012 to June 30, 2016.

  These posts are part-time and attract no remuneration for a time commitment of around 12 days per year.

  None of the new appointees or reappointed members hold any other ministerial appointments.

  Professor Gayle McPherson and Gwilym Gibbons are standing down from the Creative Scotland Board.

  Creative Scotland Chair, Sir Sandy Crombie, said:

  "I am delighted to welcome May, Fergus, Richard and Sandra to the Board of Creative Scotland. They bring a wealth of knowledge and experience from a variety of different backgrounds which will be of great benefit to Creative Scotland in delivering our ambitions for arts and culture in Scotland. I also welcome the reappointment of Steve Grimmond, Peter Cabrelli and Barclay Price for another four years on the Board.

  "I would also like to thank Professor Gayle McPherson and Gwilym Gibbons for their significant and valuable contribution to the Creative Scotland Board over the past two years and I wish them well for the future."

  Creative Scotland is Scotland's national body for the arts, screen and creative industries. It is governed by the Creative Scotland Board whose members are responsible for overall strategy and for ensuring the body takes forward its vision.

  These appointments are regulated by the Public Appointments Commissioner for Scotland.

  All appointments are made on merit and political activity plays no part in the selection process. However, in accordance with the original Nolan recommendations, there is a requirement for appointees' political activity within the last five years (if there is any to be declared) to be made public. None of the new appointees or reappointed members have had any political activity in the last five years. 

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  04 Jul 2012

  George Entwistle Appointed as 15th BBC Director General

  George Entwistle, who is currently Director of BBC Vision, will take over from current Director-General Mark Thompson. Mark Thompson announced his intention to leave the BBC in March this year and will hand over to George Entwistle in the autumn.

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  Entwistle has been with the BBC since 1989 when he joined as a broadcast journalism trainee and he was appointed Director of BBC Vision in 2011. Prior to that he was the Controller of Knowledge Commissioning and he has been responsible for some of the BBC's most high profile programmes including Panorama, while he was Head of Current Affairs, and Newsnight, of which he was the editor.

  The appointment was made at a full meeting of the BBC Trust this morning, following a two stage interview process, which involved interviewing over 30 candidates. The initial short list of candidates was interviewed by Lord Patten and Trust Vice Chairman Diane Coyle.

  A final list of candidates was interviewed by a panel comprising the following Trustees: Lord Patten, Dr Coyle, Alison Hastings, David Liddiment, Anthony Fry and Elan Closs Stephens. A recommendation was then put forward to the full Trust board and agreed this morning.

  Announcing the appointment, BBC Trust Chairman Lord Patten said:

  "George is a creative leader for a creative organisation.

  "His experience of making and delivering great programmes that audiences love - built up through many years of working for the Corporation - will prove invaluable as he and his team work to ensure the BBC remains the greatest broadcaster in the world.

  "Above all George is passionate about the BBC, is committed to its public service ethos and has a clear vision for how it can harness the creativity and commitment of its staff to continue to serve audiences in ever more innovative ways."

  George Entwistle said:

  "I'm delighted that the Chairman and Trustees have decided I'm the right person for the job. And I'm very excited about all that lies ahead. I love the BBC and it's a privilege to be asked to lead it into the next stage of its creative life."

  Mark Thompson said:

  "I think this is a brilliant appointment. George has shown himself to be an outstanding leader with an intuitive understanding of public sector broadcasting. He has a formidable track record as a programme maker and in recent years has also shown his calibre as a leader. I wish him and the BBC every success in the years to come."

  Lord Patten added:

  "I once again want to pay tribute to Mark Thompson. His creativity, vision and leadership have made him an outstanding Director-General of the BBC and he will be sorely missed." 

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  04 Jul 2012

  New Controller of CBBC Named as Current BBC Comedy Controller, Cheryl Taylor

  Cheryl Taylor will leave her post as BBC's Controller for Comedy Commissioning to become the new Controller of CBBC – the BBC's children's channel for 6-12 year olds.

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  As Controller for Comedy Commissioning Cheryl oversaw a number of series including Not Going Out, Miranda, Rev, Twenty Twelve, Outnumbered, Watson And Oliver, Mrs Brown's Boys and White Van Man.

  Cheryl, who is already based in Salford, was the first genre controller to be located outside London when she was appointed in 2009.

  Prior to this Cheryl was BBC Executive Editor, Out of London Comedy Commissioning, for four years where she developed and commissioned original comedy from the Nations and Regions including The Old Guys, Life Of Riley, Sunshine and Wallace And Gromit – A Matter Of Loaf And Death, as well as overseeing Gavin And Stacey and The Royle Family.

  Before joining the BBC Cheryl was Head of Comedy at Hat Trick Productions. She began her commissioning career at Channel 4 where she was responsible for Spaced, Black Books and The World Of Derren Brown amongst others.

  Director BBC Children's, Joe Godwin, said: "I'm delighted to be able to welcome Cheryl to the Department. She brings so much commissioning and production experience, in the BBC and the indie sector, to the CBBC role – one of the most exciting and important commissioning roles in children's media."

  Cheryl Taylor said: "I feel very privileged to be moving from a brilliant job in Comedy to an equally fabulous one at CBBC. The Channel is a leading light in the world of children's television and generates imaginative and inspiring shows with the very highest creative standards. I look forward to collaborating with our dedicated and passionate teams both in-house and the indie sector and building on their great work to date."

  Cheryl was brought up in Liverpool and currently lives with her family in West Yorkshire.

  CBBC is the BBC's multiplatform offering for 6-12 year olds, bringing the very best British-made drama, entertainment and factual programmes to its young viewers. CBBC is the most-loved and most-watched channel of children in its target age group and nearly 40% of children in the UK tune in to the CBBC channel every week. 

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  03 Jul 2012

  Government Steps Up Protection Against Internet Piracy of Film and Other Copyrighted Material

  Measures to tackle Internet piracy moved forward, as the Government and Ofcom took the next steps to bring the Digital Economy Act's mass notification system into effect.  Confirmed by the Department for Media, Culture and Sport (DCMS), the new system will see letters sent to account holders whose Internet connections are identified as being used to unlawfully share films, music and other copyright material.

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  The Government laid secondary legislation in Parliament that deals with who will pay for mass notification while Ofcom launched a final consultation on its code that sets out exactly how the system will work.

  The letters will explain what copyright is, where to find legitimate content and offer advice on protecting Internet connections from unauthorised users.

  Creative Industries Minister Ed Vaizey commented, "It is essential that Government creates the right conditions for businesses to grow. We must ensure our creative industries can protect their investment. They have the right to charge people to access their content if they wish, whether in the physical world or on the Internet."

  He continued, "We are putting in place a system to educate people about copyright to ensure they know what legitimate content is and where to find it. The Digital Economy Act is an important part of protecting our creative industries against unlawful activity."

  The secondary legislation sets out that the cost of the letter system will largely be met by rights holders with Internet service providers paying a smaller element. The legislation also includes a £20 charge for anyone wishing to formally challenge a letter. The fee would be refunded if the appeal was successful.

  Ofcom's Initial Obligations Code sets out exactly how the system will work and will also need to be approved by Parliament.

  The Government will also seek to repeal sections 17 and 18 of the Digital Economy Act (DEA) at an early opportunity. These sections contain reserve powers to allow courts to order that access to websites dedicated to copyright infringement be blocked.

  In August last year the Government announced it would not bring forward the site-blocking provisions in the DEA after Ofcom concluded the specific measures in the Act would not work in practice.

  Also rights holders have successfully used existing legislation – section 97A of the Copyright, Design and Patents Act – to secure court orders instructing Internet service providers to block access to websites dedicated to copyright infringement. So far rights holders have secured orders for Newzbin2 and Pirate Bay.

  The Government is committed to removing unnecessary legislation from the statute book and will therefore remove sections 17 and 18 of the DEA. 

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  03 Jul 2012

  BFI Releases Statement Concerning Recent Press Reports on Film Tax Schemes

  The BFI has sent a letter to the Editor of The Times, following reports concerning film investment schemes allegedly offering opportunities for mitigation of investors' tax liabilities.  The BFI statement which can be read in full below, seeks to particularly clarify the workings of the Film Tax Relief in this regard, as a Government approved tax relief, which was designed to minimise the possibility of tax avoidance.

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  BFI Response in Full:

  "It is vital we distinguish between Government-approved tax reliefs, such as the Film Tax Relief and the Enterprise Investment Scheme on the one hand, and tax schemes which have nothing to do with those statutory reliefs and just happen to use film as a vehicle for minimising the tax contributions of individuals, on the other. Such a distinction is crucial to ensure we don't accidentally damage one of Britain's growing industries and a leading centre for filmmaking in the world. The Film Tax Relief was introduced by Treasury and currently per annum encourages around £1 billion of inward investment, supports 62,000 jobs, nets the Exchequer over £440 million in tax revenues and helps the UK film industry make a contribution of £3.3 billion to the economy."
  – Amanda Nevill, Chief Executive, BFI

  There have been a number of articles in the press recently – including in The Times – concerning certain types of film investment schemes which allegedly offer opportunities for mitigation of investors' tax liabilities. The BFI cannot comment on these schemes, but in a letter to the Editor of The Times in response to the article, the BFI has sought to underline the fundamental difference between the statutory framework specifically established by the Government to help filmmakers finance culturally British films for the benefit of audiences, as well as other statutory interventions such as the Enterprise Investment Scheme (EIS) which are designed to enable investors to reduce risk, and those schemes that fall outside of any such specific legislative framework.

  The Film Tax Relief was created and is fully approved by HMRC and that has been in existence since 2007. It was expressly designed to minimise the possibility of tax avoidance and has been very successful. In fact it has been so successful that the Government is using it as a template for the extension of statutory reliefs to animation, high-end TV production and the video games industry. The tax relief is there to directly help film production companies and to promote the production of culturally British films which can be enjoyed by audiences everywhere. It is a critical factor in attracting around £1 billion in inward investment into British film per annum, at an estimated annual cost to the Treasury of around £140 million. The tax relief also supports UK film production as a whole, such that the industry annually makes a contribution of £3.3 billion to UK GDP, supports 62,000 jobs and directly contributes over £440 million in tax revenues.

  A cultural test has been established to ensure this support is only available to British films which meet certain specific criteria which are designed to maximise the benefits to audiences. These schemes have been fully approved by the European Commission under their state aid rules.

  In addition to the UK tax relief for film there are other statutory venture capital schemes such as EIS that are of benefit to filmmakers and that allow individuals to invest in film and receive personal tax relief on their investments.

  Both the statutory tax relief for film and EIS should be seen as entirely separate and distinct from other investor tax schemes that are intended to minimise tax payments by individuals. 

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  28 Jun 2012

  Film Charter Signed By Nottingham City and Nottinghamshire City Councils through Creative England

  Nottingham City Council and Nottinghamshire County Council have become the latest authorities to sign up to Creative England's Film Friendly Charter. The Charter was signed by the leaders of the two councils at Wollaton Hall in Nottingham, a stunning Gothic mansion which was used as a filming location for the upcoming feature, The Dark Knight Rises. 

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  The Film Friendly Charter has been devised to make filming a simpler process for TV and film crews coming into a location to shoot. By simplifying the process, the charter aims to attract more productions to an area, in turn increasing jobs, growth and inward investment.

  Creative England is promoting a film friendly partnership with local authorities and council funded film offices, as well as public and private sector partners, to encourage a film-friendly welcome to every production shooting across England, helping develop a film-friendly ethos in all the English regions.

  By signing up to the Charter, a local authority is giving a clear signal to the film and television industry that it understands the economic and cultural benefits filming brings and has taken steps to support filming activity in its region.

  So far, five authorities have signed up to the Film Friendly Charter: Cheshire, Gloucester, Greater Manchester, Yorkshire and now Nottingham City & Nottinghamshire.

  Stephen Badham, Senior Production Liaison Manager at Creative England said: "TV film and production is an important industry, and contributes millions of pounds into local economies. That's why Creative England is developing Film Friendly Partnerships to provide a very strong statement of intent to production companies looking to film in the English regions, such as the wonderful Wollaton Hall doubling for Wayne Manor in the upcoming The Dark Knight Rises."

  To find out more about the Creative England Locations & Production Support Team please visit their webpage here.

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  28 Jun 2012

  New BAFTA Chairman Named as John Willis

  The British Academy of Film and Television Arts (BAFTA) has appointed John Willis as its new Chairman, succeeding Tim Corrie after his two-year tenure. Corrie will continue to serve the Academy as Deputy Chairman for a further year. 

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  Commenting on his appointment, John Willis stated: "Sir David Lean was the first Chairman of the organisation that became BAFTA, and 65 years later it is a daunting responsibility, and indeed a great honour, to step into such giant shoes. I look forward to enhancing the amazing cultural and learning work that BAFTA does, as a charity, throughout the UK and in the USA. We have a duty not only to identify and reward excellence but to inspire future generations, so my efforts will be focussed on harnessing the unique body of talent and experience of our membership, in pursuit of our charitable goals.

  Willis continued, "I very much look forward to working with the Board of Trustees and BAFTA staff across the organisation's entire output, from annual award ceremonies to our year-round programme of public-facing events. As importantly, I will continue to champion our relevance in the film, television and games sectors, and to the public."

  Willis, currently Chief Executive of Mentorn Media and Group Creative Director of Tinopolis plc. has been closely involved with the Academy since becoming a member almost 30 years ago. He has been a Trustee of the Academy since 2007, serving as Chairman of the Television Committee before becoming Deputy Chairman of the Academy last year.

  Willis' appointment is effective today, and coincides with the release of the Academy's Review of the Year, a look back on the highlights of its activity over the past 12 months.

  A recipient of four BAFTA nominations and one win (for Johnny Go Home, Best Factual Programme in 1976), Willis started his career at Yorkshire Television where he directed a string of award-winning documentaries including Johnny Go Home and Alice - A Fight for Life. In 1988 he moved to Channel 4 as Controller of Factual Programmes before being promoted to Director of Programmes in 1993.

  During his time at Channel 4 successes included Trainspotting, Four Weddings and a Funeral, Cutting Edge, Father Ted, Big Breakfast and True Stories. After Channel 4 he moved to United Productions as Chief Executive where United made Hornblower, Paul Watson's Wedding in the Family and Alan Bleasdale's Oliver Twist.

  He represented United on the Boards of both Channel 5 and ITN and, after a term on the board of American broadcaster WBGH, he returned to England in 2003 to join the BBC as Director of Factual and Learning programmes which included The Secret Policeman and Planet Earth. He was also a member of the BBC Executive Committee.

  In late 2006 he joined Mentorn, producers of Question Time for the BBC as well as factual dramas including The Government Inspector and A Very Social Secretary. He is currently Chief Executive of Mentorn Media and Group Creative Director of Tinopolis plc. 

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  28 Jun 2012

  New Executive Vice President of Physical Production at DreamWorks Studios Announced as Jane Evans

  Jane Evans has been named Executive Vice President of Physical Production at DreamWorks Studios, it was announced today by Jeff Small, President and COO, and Holly Bario, President of Production at the studio. Evans joins DreamWorks from her previous post at Focus Features as EVP of Physical Production. Jane Evans will start at the studio in July working on such projects as "Starbuck" and "Need for Speed."

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  Holly Bario, stated, "Jane's below-the-line credits coupled with her executive experience is invaluable to the studio as we look to move forward with our projects. She is a seasoned executive with a fresh approach that will serve DreamWorks well. On behalf of Steven and Stacey, Jeff and I are pleased to welcome her onto the team."

  Jane Evans commented on her appointment stating, "Steven and Stacey have built an extraordinary team of passionate and intelligent executives at DreamWorks.  I'm thrilled to not only have the opportunity to work alongside Holly and Jeff and the rest of the team, but also to collaborate with some of the best filmmakers in the world."

  Evans joined Focus Features in October 2004 as senior vice president, physical production and oversaw physical production and post-production on all in-house film productions.

  While there, she worked with award winning filmmakers including, Ang Lee ("Taking Woodstock"), Joel and Ethan Coen ("Burn After Reading," "A Serious Man"), Joe Wright ("Hanna" and the upcoming "Anna Karenina"), Gus Van Zant ("Milk" and the upcoming "Promised Land") and Sam Mendes ("Away We Go").

  Prior to her tenure at Focus, Evans was senior vice president of physical production at Miramax Films overseeing such films as "Spy Kids," "Sin City," "Chocolat," "Finding Neverland," "Proof" and "Cold Mountain."

  Before joining Miramax, she was director of production at HBONYC Productions from 1996 to 1999. She began her career in the industry as a freelance production coordinator and supervisor, on such films as "Nighthawks," "City Hall" and "Independence Day."

  Evans is a member the Producers Guild of America and a member of the PGA Green Committee.

  At Focus, she oversaw a pilot program to implement the reduction of carbon emissions on productions. She spearheaded the Green Production Alliance (GPA) with colleagues at other studios and production companies to encourage and support an industry standard of sustainability strategies and resources and was part of the team that developed the Green Production Guide.

  In 2009 she was honored with the Audubon Society's Rachel Carson award as part of the Green is Universal team. In 2011, two Focus Films under her supervision were recognized by the Environmental Media Association, "Hyde Park on Hudson" and "Being Flynn." 

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  28 Jun 2012

  The Pixel Market Opens for Entries from Film, TV and Other Cross Media Producer-Led Projects

  The Pixel Market is Power to the Pixel's two-day finance market for cross-media projects, taking place on 17 & 18 October in London, at the centre of its 6th Cross-Media Forum (16 – 19 October) held in association with the 56th BFI London Film Festival. Submissions are now open for producer-led projects with an application deadline of Friday 20th July, 6pm.

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  Up to 30 international teams will be selected for the market, 8 of whom will progress to the next round – The Pixel Pitch Competition (17 October) - delivering 10-minute presentations to a jury of international experts who will award the prestigious £6,000 ARTE Pixel Pitch Prize!

  This year also sees three brand new prizes: the beActive Pixel Market Comedy Prize (best comedy project), the Cinekid Pixel Market Prize (best project for children 4-14 years) and the Mozilla Pixel Market Prize (best web native, non-fiction project).

  The Pixel Meetings on the second day of the Market (18 October), will offer bespoke 1-2-1 business meetings between the 30 project teams and over 100 potential investors - all executive-level international decision-makers from across the media industry spectrum - film, publishing, TV, interactive, online, mobile, advertising and games.

  The Pixel Market gathers both creative and business talent from around the world with the opportunity to raise your project's profile on the international arena and to get it financed.

  GENERAL GUIDELINES
  The Pixel Market is open to all nationalities. Applications must be made by the producer of the project through a production company. Projects without a producer attached will not be eligible.

  Projects can be fiction or non-fiction and must have a story that extends onto more than one platform.

  All projects selected for The Pixel Market will be considered for competition at The Pixel Pitch. Please read full guidelines within the application form for eligibility details for all other prizes.

  Download the application form here. 

  Further details can be found at PttP's website at www.powertothepixel.com or by contacting, Ines Braga: ines@powertothepixel.com | +44 (0)20 7535 6723

  Companies in attendance at last year's Pixel Market include:

  Aardman | Aramid Capital | Artangel | ARTE France | BBC | BBH | beActive | Bell Fund | BFI | Blind Spot Pics | Canada Media Fund | CAPA | Channel 4 | Childseye | Cinemart | CNC | Coproduction Office | Disney | Dogwoof | Egmont Press | FaberNovel | France Télévisions | Grand Central | Krempelwood | Manning Gottlieb OMD | Medea | MediaCom | Microsoft | nDreams | NFB Canada | Orange | Penguin | Pulse Films | Pure Grass Films | Red Kingdom | RTL | Salt. | SBS | ShineVu | Six to Start | Somethin' Else | Starlight Runner| Telefilm Canada | The company P | Tigerlily Films | Turner | Vice | Wallimage CrossMedia | Warp | Workbook Project | XBox | ZDF

  The Pixel Market is supported by the MEDIA programme of the European Union.

  Additional partners: ARTE, beActive, Cinekid for Professionals, Mozilla.

  The Cross-Media Forum is held in association with the 56th BFI London Film Festival. 

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  22 Jun 2012

  New Format Brings in More Screenings and Shorter Duration for 2012 London BFI Film Festival

  The 56th BFI London Film Festival, in partnership with American Express, will run from 10 - 21 October 2012 with an increase in the number of screenings and venues, in new parts of the capital. 

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  As part of BFI Head of Exhibition and Festival Director Clare Stewart's new strategic direction for the Festival, this approach sees the Festival shorter in length but significantly increasing its capacity for primetime evening and weekend screenings. The new structure, alongside the recently announced new programme categories, competitive sections and enhanced Awards, is designed to give a wider audience more opportunities to take part in the Festival.

  More venues, more screenings, new audiences

  The new 12 day duration of the Festival will give a concentrated burst of film across more boroughs of London than ever before. The important cinema going axis between the major Leicester Square cinemas (Odeon West End, Vue West End, Odeon Leicester Square and Empire) and BFI Southbank will be maintained but the Festival's reach will be extended into four new London cinemas:

  • The Hackney Picturehouse
  • The Renoir in Bloomsbury
  • Screen on the Green in Islington
  • Rich Mix in Shoreditch

  The Festival will continue to screen at the ICA and will expand its use of Curzon Mayfair, the Ritzy in Brixton, and Cine Lumiere, Kensington which will all screen films for the full duration, rather than the previous three days, of the festival. 

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  22 Jun 2012

  Creative England Reveals £150k Funding Allocation for Filmmaking Activities

  Creative England has revealed the companies and projects awarded a total of £150,000 to support and promote filmmaking activities in the English regions in the latest round of its Film Network Fund.

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  Individual awards range from £8,750 to Sheffield-based 104 Films' nationwide workshop programme in support of disabled new filmmaking talent, to £25,000 for networking sessions and events for animators in Yorkshire, the South West and the West Midlands.

  The Film Networks Fund from Creative England is available to networks and organisations whose work supports and promotes filmmaking activities in the English regions.

  The awards are the first for grass-roots film-making groups to be made since the demise of the regional screen agency network at the end of last year.

  Groups who can demonstrate excellence in their area of film-related activity can apply for funding, although particular priority is given to those groups who are historically underrepresented in the film industry or those areas of work previously identified as neglected. Through supporting these organisations, Creative England seeks further its remit of making access to work in and around the film industry available to all. It also aims to support regional centres with historic creative strengths, such as Norwich's Write 2 Screen programme.

  Chris Moll, Creative England's Head of Talent, said: "It is a great reflection of the vitality of filmmaking support in England that we received so many strong applications for our Film Networks Fund.

  "While this round of funding is somewhat transitional pending final agreement on the BFI's Forward Plan, Creative England is committed to longer-term partnerships that can develop key regional talent and voices on the national and international stage."

  These are the supported projects:

  Northern Film & Media, Gateshead: The Digital Bridge
  The Digital Bridge is a programme of creative story labs, industry masterclasses and one-on-one mentor sessions designed to stimulate innovative creative and commercial approaches to filmmaking while developing a network of digital filmmakers. Working with emerging and established filmmakers, The Digital Bridge will foster new relationships with digital innovators and support new routes into industry for talented filmmakers working across multiple platforms.

  Producers' Forum, Birmingham
  The Producers' Forum will provide high quality training from leading industry experts and create a framework of valuable networking opportunities, and a voice for independent producers and filmmakers living in the West Midlands. There will be events and networking with high profile UK film industry figures from all sectors, including finance, sales, marketing, distribution, script development and casting. Also planned is a series of workshops focusing on the new world of producing and distributing, and a mentoring programme for producers, directors and writers.

  First Take, Liverpool, & Signal Films, Barrow-in-Furness: FilmTrain
  FilmTrain will provide a comprehensive service to filmmakers, in particular those underrepresented in the film industry. Through talent sessions, masterclasses and networking events, it will aims to build a better-informed, skilled and networked North West filmmaking community equipped for the changing landscape of film and its audiences.

  FilmWorks, Bristol, Nottingham and Sheffield
  A partnership across exhibition and production, sharing skills and expertise to develop emerging filmmaking talent in the regions. This pilot project will focus around the venue hubs of Broadway in Nottingham, Showroom in Sheffield and Watershed in Bristol, each attached with a locally-based producer to develop a programme of screenings, masterclases and events to develop local talent. The events will be simulcast to each partner venue to enable sharing of regional expertise and strengths. All outcomes will be shared through dedicated online resource.

  All Animated, Yorkshire, Bristol and West Midlands
  The network consists of three pre-existing animation organisations – All Animated (previously All Animated Yorkshire), Wonky (Bristol) and the Animation Forum West Midlands. This umbrella network will support each group's individual events, whilst allowing for cross-pollination of ideas, screening nights, speakers, software discounts, membership etc. It's a great opportunity to link up three of the best animation groups in the regions and ensure further support for the animation sector through CE.

  104 films, Sheffield. Disabled & Disadvantaged New Film Talent Workshop Programme
  104 Films will run UK wide creative inspiration workshops for new and emerging disabled film talent to inspire and develop a new generation of talent to engage with film making and to provide guidance and connection toward developing their careers and skills. Project will also encompass extensive and necessary outreach programme and aftercare and development programme.

  UnderWire Regional Networks and Forums
  The Underwire Festival celebrates the raw cinematic talents of British women, showcasing work by emerging female directors, producers, writers, cinematographers, composers and editors. In partnership with regional venues and festival alumni, the programme will run: a screening of the festival winners, with networking and an open mic session where female talent across the crafts can bring down a film to screen to, and discuss with, the audience. The programme will hold focussed, craft-specific meetings over dinner for ten people, inviting a female mentor from the region who has been successful at her craft to talk with the group.

  Wavelength Films, Norwich. Write 2 Screen
  Support for film professionals in the East of England with a focus on writing for the screen. Developing relationships between writers and the production community through sharing knowledge and identifying opportunities for collaboration. This will be achieved by development of an online community and resource alongside a programme of networking and information sharing activities. 

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  18 Jun 2012

  Screen Yorkshire Launch New Strategic Advisory Panel for £15m Content Fund

  Screen Yorkshire has announced its panel of financial, legal and media experts who will independently advise it on the new £15m Yorkshire Content Fund (YCF). The Independent Advisory Panel's (IAP) role is to scrutinise and advise on the portfolio of investments across the YCF and ensure it is hitting targets for recoupment, job creation and economic activity.

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  The Yorkshire Content Fund will invest £7.5m of European Regional Development Funding into TV, film, games and digital which will be matched with private investment on a project-by-project basis.

  The IAP recently met for the first time to review investment strategy, fund processes and the pipeline of investments, the first of which will be announced in the forthcoming weeks.

  The IAP will be Chaired by ex-EM Media Chief Executive Debbie Williams and its members are:

  • Debbie Williams, Williams Jardine Consulting (Chair)
  • Guy Lewis, Media Technology Consultant, Guy Lewis TV Ltd (Vice Chair)
  • Alex McWhirter, Chief Executive Finance Yorkshire
  • Keith Arrowsmith, Partner JMW Solicitors LLP Manchester
  • Andy Caton, Corporate Development Director, Yorkshire Building Society
  • Alan Gay, Director of Resources and Deputy Chief Executive, City of Leeds Council
  • Cluny Macpherson, Regional Director Arts Council England, Yorkshire
  • Stuart McFarlane, Management Consultant, Creative and Digital Industries, Stuart McFarlane Associates Ltd
  • Emma Roe, Partner Cobbetts Leeds

  Sally Joynson, Chief Executive of Screen Yorkshire, said: "This Independent Advisory Panel is a critical element of the processes behind the new multi-million pound Yorkshire Content Fund and will ensure long term benefit to the region from the fund. The panel has experts from across the North of England and will offer advice, guidance and a critical eye to our portfolio of investments over the next few years. I'd like to thank them for giving up their time and look forward to working with them closely as engagement from the wider business community can only strengthen the success of the Yorkshire Content Fund."

  To find out more about the Yorkshire Content Fund, please click here to visit the Screen Yorkshire Funding Page.
  

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  14 Jun 2012

  Warner Bros. Studios Leavesden Opens

  Warner Bros. Studios Leavesden this week opened its doors for business. Having invested over £100 million the state-of-the-art facility is available to all kinds of productions, not just Warner Bros., from commercials to music videos, TV shows and feature films.

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  The new studio is spread across a secure 200-acre site and houses a collection of some of the largest sound stages in the UK spanning nearly a quarter of a million square feet, including one of the largest stage based underwater tanks in Europe.  In addition, the site provides an unrivalled, clear horizon 100 acre back-lot, one of the most extensive in Europe, which can be adapted for any production need.

  Alongside the stages, which range in size from 10,000 to 36,000 square feet, is a unique multi-function area, ideal for costume, props, camera, grip and all support services requirements and purpose built workshops facilities. 

  Dan Dark, Senior Vice President and Managing Director, Warner Bros. Studios Leavesden, commented:  “We have spent the last 18 months building a state-of-the-art facility that will provide clients with a highly functional, spacious and contemporary environment within which to film.”

  To find out more, please visit the Warner Bros. Studios Leavesden website at http://www.wbsl.com/.

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  08 Jun 2012

  Twickenham Studios Saved from Closure with Plans to Maintain Staff and Facilities

  Twickenham Studios is to be kept on as a fully operational film studio, according to the intentions of a new bidder and reversing earlier plans to demolish the site to build new housing. The administrators confirmed that a mystery buyer has stepped in to purchase the studio with plans to maintain its film-making facilities and all current staff.

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  The studio went in to administration in February this year, after seeing financial losses over the last three years, according the administrators. Initial intentions were to knock down the studio and sell the land to create new housing; however the studio has since received backing from multiple leading industry figures and through a "Save Twickenham Studios" campaign, which attracted over 5,000 signatures from industry practitioners and local residents.

  Gerald Krasner of Begbies Traynor, joint administrator of Twickenham Film Studios Ltd, stated "The joint administrators are pleased to announce that following the re-marketing of the Studios, a successful bidder has been found. Sixty-two confidentiality letters were sent out, of which 21 were returned, and these all received sales packs."

  "A number of offers were received and on Friday, 1 June 2012, contracts were exchanged with a third party to acquire the Studios as a going concern, retaining all of the staff. A 10% deposit has been paid to the joint administrators' solicitors and it is envisaged that completion will take place later this year. At this stage, the purchaser wishes to remain anonymous and further details will be released after completion." 

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  08 Jun 2012

  ONSIGHT Shoots and Delivers New Ground-Breaking Series, Kingdom of Plants 3D With David Attenborough

  PG Affiliate, ONSIGHT provided a wealth of camera equipment, technical knowledge and post services for the new series, Kingdom of Plants 3D With David Attenborough, produced by Atlantic Productions for Sky 3D and presented by the multi-award winning natural history broadcaster and directed by Martin Williams. DoP Tim Cragg shot the series.

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  The ambitious project reveals the secret world of plants at the Royal Botanical Gardens, Kew, over the course of a year. The programme showcases plants' amazing ability to adapt and survive throughout the changing seasons, in different and sometimes harsh environments.

  ONSIGHT's camera rental facilities supplied a wide range of equipment, including 3Ality Technica rigs and both ARRI ALEXA and RED Epic cameras. Chief Technical Officer, Richard Mills, oversaw the extensive camera formats - over 8 were used on the project. Photography techniques such as, macro, micro, infra-red and time-lapse were also heavily used to bring the world of plants to life in 3D.

  On such a technically complicated project, planning was essential. The production team not only assembled a storyboard for pictorial purposes, but also used them for depth management. Shot mostly on location at Kew Gardens and natively in 3D, ONSIGHT provided a dailies service, allowing the DoP and Director to view real-time results during the shoot, saving valuable time.

  A post production service for this major 3-part series was also provided by ONSIGHT at their London post facility. The team completed all aspects from conforming to technical and creative 3D finishing and colour grading, together with 2D deliverables. There will also be a 40-minute film for Giant Screen.

  ONSIGHT was thrilled to be working with Atlantic Productions and David Attenborough again, following the success of Flying Monsters 3D. Anthony Geffen, Executive Producer and CEO of Atlantic Productions adds: "Having already worked together on two 3D films, David and I were keen to really push the technological boundaries in macro. So when the Royal Botanic Gardens at Kew suggested working together to create a film, it seemed a perfect fit. With David's passion for plants, and one of the largest botanical collections in the world in which to film, we were able to push the 3D technology to capture the lives of plants like never before."

  Kingdom of Plants 3D With David Attenborough concludes on Saturday 9 June at 6PM on Sky 3D and will be simulcast in 2D on Sky Atlantic HD. The episodes can be caught on Sky Go and the making of programme will follow on 16 June.

  To visit the website for the series, please click here.

  "Spectacular three-part series, the 3D is stunning. A thrilling new perspective. Watch it." – The Observer

  "It contains some of the most fetching use of 3D technology since Avatar." - Evening Standard

  "You'll be astonished by the macroscopic and time-lapse photography. A fascinating paean for the great work of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew." – Radio Times

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  06 Jun 2012

  Isle of Man in Talks to Purchase 19.9% of Pinewood with Potential CinemaNX Merger in £25 Million Media Fund Agreement

  Pinewood Shepperton plc has this morning confirmed it is currently negotiating a binding agreement with the Government of the Isle of Man to source and advise on film investment opportunities for its £25 million Media Development Fund (MDF) for an initial term of 5 years.

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  The deal could also see the Isle of Man purchase up to 19.9% of ordinary shares of Pinewood Shepperton plc from its shareholders if satisfactory terms can be agreed in connection with this proposal.

  The 4 June 2012 resolution tabled by the Minister for the Treasury, IOM, notes that the Treasury be authorised but not required to expend from the reserve fund an amount of up to £24 million to purchase the shares.
  

  Pinewood also confirmed that if it enters into an agreement to advise the MDF, it is proposed that a core team from CinemaNX (the current adviser to the MDF) will join the Company to provide continuity.

  The resolution will require the consent of the Tynwald (Isle of Man Parliament) and a further announcement is expected in due course.

  The Isle of Man Media Development Fund provides equity investment to film and television productions shooting on the Isle of Man.

  The MDF is currently run by CinemaNX Limited and offers a broad range of film investment including:

   • Equity finance
   • UK Distribution
   • Discounting of Tax Credits and other 'soft' money
   • Provision of contract discounting and 'gap' financing

  CinemaNX does not have any upper or lower limit on its investments and packages are considered on a case by case basis. CinemaNX will normally only invest in projects where UK distribution rights are available.

  For more information on the MDF, please click here.

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  01 Jun 2012

  Northern Ireland Screen Call to Develop Landmark Documentaries

  Northern Ireland Screen is currently seeking applications to develop landmark documentaries with a view to supporting one of those development projects within the Landmark Documentary Production Scheme 2013-2014. 

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  Only Northern Ireland based production companies are eligible to apply. For the avoidance of doubt "Northern Ireland based production companies" in this context means a company with an existing substantive production base within Northern Ireland.

  Northern Ireland Screen commented that the aim is for successful projects to deliver unique visions and voices on universal stories from Northern Ireland resident filmmakers. A documentary project focusing on arts based subjects would be particularly welcomed.

  There is no prescribed duration and although Northern Ireland Screen's preference is a broadcast hour, they will consider feature length projects too and may, if the rational is compelling, consider two-parters or mini-series. Nothing will be automatically excluded on duration.

  This is a development call; projects that are already in production are not eligible.

  For full details on the landmark documentary development call please click here to visit the investment and funding section of the Northern Ireland Screen website.

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  01 Jun 2012

  John Tulip Named as New Managing Director of Northern Film & Media as CEO Tom Harvey Steps Down

  Northern Film & Media has this week announced that Chief Executive Tom Harvey MBE has stepped down from his role and John Tulip, currently Finance and Operations Director, will now lead the agency in the newly created role of Managing Director. 

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  Harvey leaves the organisation after successfully securing new funding from a coalition of local authorities and overseeing the agency's move to BALTIC Centre for Contemporary Art in Gateshead.

  Joining Northern Film & Media as the agency's first chief executive in 2002, Harvey and received an MBE for services to the creative industries in the last New Year's Honours list, presided over the agency's progression into an award-winning £3.5 million annual turnover business.

  Under his leadership, the agency successfully leveraged more than £80 million of investment into the north east film, TV, digital media and music industries and helped build a 37.6% GVA boost in the five years to 2010.

  Harvey was instrumental in launching the UK regions' first public-VC investment fund for the creative industries, the £2.4 million Finance for Business - North East Creative Content Fund. The Fund successfully delivered more than £5 million of investment into the north east film, TV and digital media industries and the model was hailed by the CBI for 'de-risking investment'.

  The move comes after Northern Film & Media successfully secured a new tranche of local authority funding that will safeguard the agency's core services and struck a landmark digital content partnership with BALTIC Centre for Contemporary Art. The partnership with BALTIC will realise new arts-based creative collaborations and significantly reduces the company's overheads.

  Tom Harvey stated, "Following the confirmation of funding and realisation of a future-defining partnership with BALTIC, I have decided that now is the right time for me to step down as chief executive of Northern Film & Media. The agency is now well positioned for a new funding era and will continue to deliver a range of creative initiatives to new and existing clients.

  "It has been an extraordinary ten years with £80 million of inward investment, thousands of ideas developed and jobs created and sustained, over £9million invested and distributed and more than 70 new companies created. The team at Northern Film & Media is committed to making the agency work under a new model for new economic times.

  "I have spent a third of my working life in the North East. It's an incredible place to live and work packed full of extraordinary people, companies and landscapes. I've enjoyed my time here immensely and I will always feel close to the region."

  "John has been my right-hand man for nearly a decade and he will provide strong leadership and management in the role of managing director."

  Sir Les Elton, chair, Northern Film & Media said: "Tom's ten-year tenure at NFM has produced extraordinary results. From major productions secured to developing a critical mass of commercial-creative talent in the region through to securing public and industry backing for the sector here, Tom has delivered in the role of chief executive. Having put the structures in place that will future-proof the agency's core services, I can confidently hand over the reins to John.

  "On behalf of all of the Board, I wish Tom well and look forward to watching him excel in future high-profile roles."

  New Managing Director, John Tulip commented, "Having repositioned the agency for a successful future under a new funding climate, we can reflect on a decade of unprecedented investment and activity in the north east creative economy.

  "I'm looking forward to working with Northern Film & Media's talented team and our partners to deliver on our new agenda as a creative industry development agency. We will develop new strategic alliances over the coming months that will reflect our new footprint."

  Northern Film & Media is funded by the ERDF Competitiveness Programme 2007-13. The ERDF programme is bringing over £300m into the North East to support innovation, enterprise and business support across the region. 

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  01 Jun 2012

  New Chairman of The Walt Disney Studios Announced as Former Warner Bros Exec Alan Horn

  Bob Iger, Chairman and CEO of The Walt Disney Company, announced this week that Alan Horn has been named Chairman of The Walt Disney Studios. Effective from Monday 11th June 2012, Horn will manage worldwide operations for The Walt Disney Studios including production, distribution and marketing for live-action and animated films from Disney, Pixar and Marvel.

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  Horn will also be tasked with overseeing the marketing and distribution for DreamWorks Studios films released under the Touchstone Pictures banner. Disney's music and theatrical divisions will also report to Horn.

  As a a prominent figure in the film and television industry, Horn has overseen the creative executive teams responsible for some of the world's most successful entertainment properties including the Harry Potter film franchise and the hit television series Seinfeld among others.

  Bob Iger commented, "Alan not only has an incredible wealth of knowledge and experience in the business, he has a true appreciation of movie making as both an art and a business. He's earned the respect of the industry for driving tremendous, sustained creative and financial success, and is also known and admired for his impeccable taste and integrity. He brings all of this to his new role leading our studio group, and I truly look forward to working with him."

  Alan Horn stated, "I'm incredibly excited about joining The Walt Disney Company, one of the most iconic and beloved entertainment companies in the world. I love the motion picture business and look forward to making a contribution as part of Bob Iger's team working closely with the dedicated and talented group at the studio."

  Horn was most recently President and COO of Warner Bros. Entertainment where he had oversight of the Studios' theatrical and home entertainment operations, including the Warner Bros. Pictures Group, Warner Premiere (direct-to-platform production), Warner Bros. Theatrical Ventures (live stage) and Warner Home Video. During his 12 year tenure, Warner Bros. Studios was the global box office leader seven times.

  Among the numerous critically acclaimed films and box office hits released during his tenure are all eight films in the Harry Potter series, The Dark Knight, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, Happy Feet, Sherlock Holmes, The Departed, Batman Begins, Million Dollar Baby, the second and third Matrix films and the Ocean's Eleven trilogy. Horn is also an executive producer of The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey.

  Before joining Warner Bros., Horn co-founded Castle Rock Entertainment where he served as Chairman and Chief Executive Officer. He oversaw the creation of many critically acclaimed and beloved films including Best Picture Oscar nominees A Few Good Men, The Shawshank Redemption and The Green Mile as well as When Harry Met Sally, City Slickers, In the Line of Fire and the most successful show in television history, Seinfeld. Horn has also served as President and Chief Operating Officer of Twentieth Century Fox Film Corporation and was Chairman and CEO of Embassy Communications.

  He is a member of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, the Academy of Television Arts and Sciences, the American Film Institute and the Museum of Broadcasting. He serves on the Board of Directors of the American Film Institute; as a Vice Chairman of the Natural Resources Defence Council (NRDC); is a co-founder of the Environmental Media Association (EMA); on the Board of Trustees for the Autry National Centre in Los Angeles; and on the board of Harvard-Westlake School.

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  31 May 2012

  Skillset Craft and Technical Placement Scheme Opens New Round of Applications

  The Skillset Craft and Technical Skills Academy Trainee Placement Scheme is now seeking applications from people committed to a career in the Hair & Make-up, Camera and Sound departments in feature film production. The scheme can also supply feature film productions with Craft and Technical Department trainees and please see below for further information on taking on trainees at a subsidised rate.

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  The Academy are looking for individuals who have demonstrable experience of a commitment to working in one of those departments, who have either graduated from a Creative Skillset Film or Media Academy in the past 18 months, or who have two industry testimonials.

  The selected individuals will become trainees on feature films that contribute to the Skills Investment Fund.

  The scheme will subsidise up to two paid work placements per trainee on feature film productions, and will provide some initial training and support for the trainees.

  The objectives are to help the next generation of talent to develop new contacts in the industry and develop their skills on set.

  Deadline for applications is 18th June 2012 at 5pm. Successful applicants will be invited to interview with an industry panel at the beginning of July.

  You can find further information here the Trainee Placement Scheme or you can email info@craftandtech.org or call Charlotte on 020 7713 9822.

  Are you a production looking for Craft and Technical Department film trainees?

  Film productions which have contributed the Skills Investment Fund (SIF) have the chance to recruit high calibre trainees to work in their craft and technical departments at heavily subsidised rates.

  Trainees are available from the scheme within the following departments:

  • Art Department
  • Camera and Lighting
  • Costume & Wardrobe
  • Editing
  • Hair and Make-up
  • Script Supervisor
  • Production Sound

  Nicky Earnshaw, Production Manager, (Welcome to the Punch, Johnny English Reborn) commented, "Our camera trainees on Welcome to the Punch were excellent. I would recommend the scheme to producers because it helps to keep things fresh, ensuring new talented people are coming up the ranks".

  To find out about contributing to the SIF and how you can recruit subsidised trainees please contact kristenp@skillset.org or tel 020 7713 9800.

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  16 May 2012

  BFI Launch 'New Horizons' Future Plan 2012-17 and Industry Wide Consultation

  The BFI has this week launched a four-week consultation on its Future Plan for 2012-2017 and you are invited to take part. The plan looks at the future of Lottery Funding and investment in British Filmmaking, Film Heritage and Education & Audiences. 

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  Presented to members of the UK Film Industry at the BFI IMAX on Monday 14th May, including Emily Stillman and Gareth Blake representing The Production Guild, 'New Horizons for UK Film' outlines the BFI's proposals for investing Lottery support for UK film and sets out a fresh agenda to capitalise on British creativity and talent.

  The proposals cover a wide range of activities for supporting filmmaking, production, development, exhibition, education, skills development and film heritage - with a central focus on building audiences across the UK and on all platforms.

  The plan follows the independent film policy review chaired by Lord Chris Smith, which was commissioned last year by Culture Minister Ed Vaizey and looked at how to ensure film is a sector which plays a full role in driving growth.

  You can read 'New Horizons for UK Film' by clicking here (PDF - 3.4MB)

  The consultation is open from 14th May to 10th June. You can either fill in the online consultation by clicking here, or you can take part in one of the BFI's consultation events across the UK; full details of dates and venues plus booking a place can be accessed by clicking here.

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  16 May 2012

  Future Development of Pinewood Studios Consultation Announced

  Pinewood Shepperton plc has this morning announced a consultation on the future development of Pinewood Studios with local and national stakeholders and the producers and developers of creative content.

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  The company stated that certainty as to its future development is critical to enable Pinewood Studios to plan for growth, whilst remaining globally competitive and responding to the changing needs and ever increasing demands of the screen and digital industries.

  Such future development will look forward for the next 20 years and will consider the need for stage and studio space, innovation, technology and television broadcast facilities, all designed to support Pinewood Studios' position as a world-leading, digitally connected, hub for the global creative industries.

  The consultation will consider both the existing site and the adjacent land holding, which was recently the subject of a planning refusal for the Project Pinewood scheme.

  Pinewood also confirmed that new studio complexes are being developed around the world, such as Cape Town Studios, Docklands in Melbourne, Russia World Studio and Alvernia Studios, Poland. A current development is Chinawood, a new film making centre outside Tianjin, which has reportedly cost circa £0.5 billion.

  The Company continues to implement its plans for Shepperton Studios.

  Commenting on the future development consultation, Ivan Dunleavy, Chief Executive said, "Our business again delivered record operating results during 2011, yet Pinewood and the UK were unable to satisfy the rising demand last year from the audio-visual sector.

  "We must respond effectively to the growing demand and compete on an equal footing; otherwise Pinewood will fall behind its international competitors.

  "Increasingly producers require the cost efficiencies that come from the co-location of creative skills, production experience and infrastructure for which Pinewood Studios has been renowned. We are determined to respond to the opportunity to create jobs and growth in this vibrant sector of the UK economy". 

  Business Secretary Vince Cable commented, "The British film industry is an economic success story. It's the third largest market in the world in revenue terms with exports over £2bn and a highly skilled workforce of nearly 50,000.

  "I have been to the Pinewood studios in Buckinghamshire and was extremely impressed by what the British film industry is doing. If Pinewood Studio's expansion plans take place it will significantly enhance the UK's ability to succeed in a highly competitive market and ensure that the UK continues to be one of the best destinations in the world for film making."

  Culture Minister Ed Vaizey stated, "Economically and culturally, British film makes a great contribution and presents a very real opportunity for economic growth. Continued private investment in the industry will help ensure the UK has the necessary skills, infrastructure and capacity to go from strength to strength. I welcome Pinewood's vision to help ensure that the UK secures its place a world leader in creativity, technology and innovation."
  

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  16 May 2012

  Tickets Now Available for The 2012 VFX & Stereo 3D Conference with Guild Member Discounts

  Following on from the success of last year's event, this year's VFX Advantage conference promises to be even bigger! Running over two days and with double the content, filmmakers will discover how VFX & Stereo 3D has been used to create box office hits. The two day conference produced by The Directors Guild and funded by Creative Skillset is designed specifically for directors, cinematographers, producers and production managers who will be given the necessary knowledge and contacts to use VFX confidently and efficiently in the future. 
  

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  Industry specialists behind Hugo, Moon, Prometheus and StreetDance 2 reveal the opportunities created through integrating visible and invisible VFX into projects of varying budgets and genres.

  • Joining the speaker line-up is Christoph Malessa, UK Studio Head of Pixomondo, the Oscar winning Visual Effects House behind Hugo, talking about how the work was distributed and completed across the global Pixomondo pipeline and their collaboration with Rob Legato, Scorsese's VFX Supervisor.

  • Also speaking is James Richardson of Vertigo Films and producer of lower-budget smash-hits StreetDance 2 and Monsters looking at what they did differently second time round with StreetDance 2.

  • VFX supervisors Richard Stammers and Simon Stanley Clamp talk us through the VFX process respectively on Prometheus and Moon.

  THE VFX ADVANTAGE promises to be an inspiring two days packed with case studies, panel discussions and demonstrations with lunch included and a networking drinks reception for speakers and delegates.

  Tickets and Discounted Guild Member Rates

  Two-day tickets - £120/ discount rate * £80

  One-day ticket – £75/ discount rate * £55

  *Available to members of: DGGB, BAFTA, BSC, WFTV, The Production Guild, WGGB and PMA. Travel, Childcare and funding bursaries are available.

  THE VFX ADVANTAGE conference is organised by the Directors Guild Trust and the Directors Guild of Great Britain with partners Creative Skillset supported by Screen International & movieScope. The conference has been funded by the Creative Skillset Film Skills Fund, as part of A Bigger Future 2.

  The full programme will be announced shortly. For booking and information please visit: http://www.vfxadvantage.co.uk.

  THE VFX ADVANTAGE – Making the Most of Visual Effects & Stereo 3D
  Date: Wednesday 4th July & Thursday 5th July
  Venue: Ravensbourne SE10 London

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  15 May 2012

  West Midlands Feature Film Production Fund Relaunched

  A fixed-term call for submissions has been announced by Creative England for the relaunched Advantage Media Production Fund.  The Fund will make £450,000 available for investment into feature films of all genres, including documentaries, which are produced or co-produced by companies based in the West Midlands.

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  The Advantage Media Production Fund was set up in 2007 to support the development of the West Midlands as an economic hub for filmmaking in the UK. It is financed through a combination of European Regional Development Funding (ERDF), UK Government-sponsored regional development funding (RDA) and recoupment from the earlier West Midlands Production Fund. Originally managed by Screen West Midlands, operational control of the Fund was transferred to Creative England in late 2011.

  Chris Moll, Head of Talent says: "Creative England is pleased to be supporting feature film production in the West Midlands through the AMPF. The success of previous films made through the fund, such as NATIVITY, SOULBOY, TORMENTED and SPECIAL PEOPLE prove the tremendous quality and variety of talent in the region, and we hope that this new call will enable us to invest in some equally exciting projects."

  In this round, the Fund is only open to feature films (not projects primarily intended for television, short films or games). The Fund can only accept submissions from companies who have been actively trading for six months or more and have a permanently staffed base in the West Midlands.

  The deadline for submissions is noon on Friday 8th June 2012.

  To download the full guidelines for the Advantage Media Production Fund, please click here.

  Apply to The Advantage Media Production Fund, please click here.
  

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  15 May 2012

  Cinesite Announces Sale to UK Private Investment Firm from Kodak

  Cinesite, one of the world's leading digital visual effects houses, and Endless LLP, an independent UK-based private equity house, have announced that Endless LLP has acquired Cinesite from Kodak for an undisclosed amount. The deal involves Cinesite's existing management team, supported by its new investment backer.

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  The new deal aims to give Cinesite the resources and stability to fulfil a long-standing desire to expand the company into new territories, diversify its services and expand its global position in the media and entertainment industry.

  Cinesite’s impressive visual effects history includes services to a number of high-end feature films and television dramas including the Harry Potter films, X-Men: First Class, Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides, John Carter, Band of Brothers, Rome and Generation Kill. It is currently working on the 23rd instalment in the James Bond franchise, Skyfall, and Paramount Pictures’ zombie epic starring Brad Pitt, World War Z.

  Antony Hunt, managing director of Cinesite, said: “I feel that we are moving Cinesite into a new era. The partnership with Endless LLP is a great strategic move for both parties and we’re delighted to have their support and investment behind us. We have an extremely innovative and creative team who deliver cutting-edge visual effects for the media and entertainment industry, and we’re now keen to take the Cinesite brand into new territories and expand our digital visual effects services. This takeover sale will give us the opportunity we need to grow our talented team to ensure we remain at the forefront of the visual effects industry for many years.”

  Garry Wilson, Managing Partner at Endless LLP, said: “Cinesite is one of the world’s most respected visual effects companies. We were truly impressed by the potential of their creative talent, breadth of blockbuster films and television shows they have been involved in, and their BAFTA, Emmy and Oscar-winning work. We’re excited to be helping Cinesite with its next stage of growth and are convinced our partnership will help them continue to expand their long-standing and successful global brand.”

  Cinesite also states that it prides itself on discovering and nurturing talent within the industry and runs a successful annual internship programme called Inspire. Inspire candidates have gone on to work on some of the world’s largest blockbuster movies and TV shows.

  Cinesite’s website can be visited at http://www.cinesite.com.

  Photo Credit - Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides - Copyright: Walt Disney Pictures / Bruckheimer Films

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  15 May 2012

  Film4 to Receive Additional Feature Film Funding

  Head of Film4, Tessa Ross has announced that Channel4 will be investing an additional £1m specifically in the development of new British comedy films under the Film4 banner. The new slate will be commissioned by Shane Allen – Channel 4's Head of Comedy and the executive producer behind The Inbetweeners hit TV series and film, which broke box office records for the biggest UK comedy opening weekend in August 2011. 

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  Allen will develop features for cinema release with an initial annual development budget of £1 million, which is in addition to Film4's annual £15million invested in developing and financing films.

  Overseeing the growth of The Inbetweeners from cult E4 series to box office hit, Shane has been responsible for a number of other comedy productions in recent years including Facejacker, Star Stories, Friday Night Dinner, Black Mirror & Comic Strip: The Hunt for Tony Blair.

  Shane Allen, Channel 4's Head of Comedy, says: "This is a fantastic adrenaline shot for more British film comedy following on from the overwhelming audience appetite we experienced last summer. The recent explosion in live comedy is because it's a very communal experience, so with the huge expertise of Film4 it's a brilliant opportunity to tap the cinematic potential of UK writing and performing talent."

  Tessa Ross, Channel 4's Controller of Film and Drama, says: "We're thrilled to be working with Shane on developing comedy features – with his impeccable track record and huge wealth of experience we know we are in for some seriously entertaining films."

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  14 May 2012

  New 'Film Culture' Lottery Fund Opens

  A new half a million pound Film Culture Lottery Fund from Creative England is now open for applications.  Supported by Lottery funds delegated from the BFI, the fund aims to increase opportunities for audiences to access, enjoy and understand a broad range of film across England.

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  The aims and objectives of the Film Culture Lottery Fund are to ensure audiences throughout the English regions have access to a wide and diverse range of film content, to deepen and enrich audiences' experience and to integrate the unique resources of regional screen heritage into wider film provision. The Film Culture Lottery Fund will support and extend the provision and interpretation of specialised and mainstream film in England by investing in:

   • Audience development within the film exhibition sector – covering all aspects of film culture: cinemas, festivals and non-theatrical exhibition, and film education where this is linked to venues or festivals

   • Access to regional screen heritage – audience focused projects using film archive in innovative and dynamic ways.

  The Fund will support activity taking place in the English regions outside London.  For the purposes of this Fund, "Film Culture" is understood to include film exhibition (cinemas, festivals or non-theatrical exhibition), regional screen heritage (film archive) and film education (where this is linked to a cinema or archive).

  Creative England has confirmed that the amount available for Film Culture in this round of applications is £490,000.  The maximum award will be £40,000 with the minimum level at £2,000.  It is anticipated that the majority of awards will be in the region of between £6,000 and £10,000. In exceptional circumstances Creative England may make awards over the £40,000 ceiling, subject to BFI approval.

  To be applicable for this round of applications, projects must be completed by the end of July 2013.

  The application deadline is noon, 1st June 2012.

  For full Film Culture Lottery Fund guidelines, please click here.

  To apply for the Creative England Film Culture Fund, please click here.
  

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  04 May 2012

  22 New Members Join The Production Guild

  The Production Guild is delighted to welcome 22 new members from the latest round of membership applications. 23 current members have also successfully upgraded or transferred their membership to new grades.

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  The applications which have all now been approved by the Membership Sub-Committee and ratified by the PG Board of Management see a range of new members joining the Guild from Production, Post Production and Accounting including representation within the Full and Supplementary membership categories.

  New Full Members:

  Antonio Austoni – Production Co-ordinator
  From Production Assistant on 2009's Solito, Antonio worked through to Production Co-ordinator on several UK productions, including Love Tomorrow, St George's Day & Truth or Dare. Antonio received his first Production Manager's credit on Gajengi Boy in late 2011.

  Chris Ballantyne – Line Producer
  You will have seen a lot of Chris's work; most of the UK has too. Over the years, Chris has worked on some of the biggest British TV dramas produced. More recently he has done stints on Eastenders as Producer & Associate Producer, likewise on Holby City, Line Produced four series of Waking The Dead and lately was Line Producer on series 15 of Silent Witness.

  Alison Banks – Production Manager
  After working as a 2nd Assistant Director, Alison moved into Production Manager duties for 2007's Three & Out and has since been working as PM on several productions, notably, The Decent: Pt 2, StreetDance 3D, The Decoy Bride, Hysteria and the highly anticipated BBC Films adaptation of Great Expectations. Alison is currently Production Manager on Hummingbird

  Jude Campbell – 1st Assistant Director
  Jude has been a 1st Ad for nearly 15 years and has worked on a huge range of productions. TV comedy and TV drama highlights include, Extras, Lead Balloon, The Thick of It, Midsomer Murders & Lewis. Jude is also busy in features recently working on Cleanskin, The Veteran, Pusher, StreetDance 2 & The Domino Effect.

  Jacquie Glanville – Line Producer
  Jacquie has been Line Producing TV Drama & features and over the past 10 years has overseen The Calcium Kid, Sixty Six and Secret Diary of a Call Girl (series 1) as Line Producer. Jacquie was also Producer on series 2, 3 & 4 of Secret Diary of a Call Girl, UPM on Brighton Rock, and UK Production Supervisor on The Boys Are Back. Most recently Jacquie was LP on White Heat.

  Jane Hooks – Line Producer
  Jane has been involved with some of the most innovative British filmmaking in recent years. Her Line Producer credits include Hush, Bunny & The Bull, Pelican Blood and Flutter. Jane also has several Co-producer credits, including Bronson, Sex & Drugs & Rock & Roll, Austenland and, currently in production, I Give It A Year for Working Title Films.

  David Jones – Production Accountant
  David spent 10 years as a Production Accountant for the BBC productions like Ivanhoe, Berkeley Square, Silent Witness (series 4), and Egypt. However, in 2010 David went onto the feature Life of Pi as 1st Assistant Accountant.

  Adrian Kelly – Line Producer
  Adrian has an extensive credit list ranging across features, TV drama, docs and drama/docs. He was Production Manager on City of Vice, Cowboys for Christ and Making History. Adrian's Line Producer credits include Spanish Flu – The Forgotten Fallen, The Man Who Crossed Hitler and the features Cuckoo & Elfie Hopkins.

  Greg McManus – Line Producer
  Joining the Guild as a Line Producer & Production Manager, Greg has PM credits for Jean Charles, Dead Man Running and Wild Bill. However, since 2009 Greg has been Line Producing projects like The Letters, Round Ireland with a Fridge, Weekender, The Knot and the soon to be aired The Happy Lands for BBC.

  Will Nicholson – Line Producer
  Originally starting out in the accounts department, Will was Production Accountant on Series 2, 3 & 4 of Wire In The Blood before earning his first Line Producer credit in 2006 on Wire In The Blood series 5. Since then, more LP credits have followed with Wire in The Blood series 6, Place of Execution, the feature Ways to Live Forever and Monroe in 2011/12.

  Neil Raven – Production Manager
  Neil has been all over the world working on major features for many years now, Location Manager highlights include Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves, GoldenEye & Evita Production Supervisor highlights 102 Dalmatians, V for Vendetta. Lately Neil was The Expendables Production Consultant & UPM (Brazil), Line Producer on Eat, Pray, Love & UPM on Sleeping Dogs.

  Martina Silcock – Production Co-ordinator
  Martina has been co-ordinating in TV since 2009 on The Cut Series 1 & 2 and Nice Guy. She did a couple of years at Tiger Aspect working on Me & My Monsters, Life of Riley series 3. However, in late 2011, Martina moved into features and secured her first credit on All Things To All Men.

  New Supplementary Members:

  Spencer Archer – Accounting
  Spencer worked at the Zodiak Media Group from 2000 to 2011, as Payroll and Treasury Manager and then as Group Payroll Manager between 2010 and 2011. He has since worked with La Plante Productions and Kudos Morton Ltd using Sage and Eclipse. Spencer is currently working on the three part TV Drama for ITV, The Bletchley Circle as Assistant Accountant.

  Andrew Bonner – Production
  Andrew spent a couple of years as Assistant Production Co-ordinator on Lewis and three features, Holy Water, Blind Revenge & Cemetery Junction. His past two credits were Production Co-ordinating on Love's Kitchen & Tim Burton's animated feature Frankenweenie, due out in October.

  Nikki Chamberlin – Accounting
  Nikki has been working consistently since 2008 as an Assistant Accountant on some of the BBC's flagship shows across their children's, soap and primetime schedules: Tracy Beaker Returns (Series 2), Holby City and Luther, The Fades and The Mystery of Edwin Drood.

  Seamus Devine – Accounting
  Seamus has worked in most accounting departments, Assistant Accountant on Big City Park, Assistant & Post Production Accountant on Good Vibrations, Payroll Accountant on Game of Thrones Series 3 and Production Accountant on The Fold.

  Nessa King – Accounting
  With a history in Production Finance, Nessa has recently moved onto production and completed Dark Shadows as a Payroll Accountant.

  Denise Lesley – Production
  As Head of Production between 2006 and 2011 Denise helped Wild Pictures become a highly regarded supplier of quality documentaries, including several primetime series for ITV with viewing figures that broke several records. She has production managed programmes for BBC, Discovery, Five and Channel 4.

  Artur Surma – Accounting
  Artur spent 2011 as Accounts Trainee on Dark Shadows for Warner Bros.

  Georgette Turner – Production
  Georgette has been working on the locations on the many of the high profile British production over the past few years. She was Location Assistant on The Other Man & Hereafter. Moving up to Assistant Location Manager on W.E & Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides, Snow White & The Huntsman & this year, Bomb.

  Victoria Wood – Production
  Victoria owns Arid Pictures, a boutique media Production Company based in London. Alongside, Victoria has produced short films and Production Managed Treacle Jr.

  New Overseas Members

  Guido Cerasuolo – Overseas
  Guido is an Italian based Executive Producer, Line Producer & Producer who has worked globally. TV and features look to Guido when they come to shoot in Italy. He was the Italian Production Supervisor on Star Wars Ep 1 & Star Wars Ep 2 & Star Wars Ep 3 in Sicily. He was Italian Line Producer on Casino Royale, Quantum of Solace & New Moon. Guido is also busy working on domestic productions in Italy.

  Membership Transfers:

  Sabbir Ahmed – Assistant Accountant
  Transferred from Supplementary Membership to Full Membership
  Sabbir earned his first credit as a PG Accounts Trainee in 2007 on The Wolfman and has been working as an Assistant Accountant, most recently on Sherlock Holmes: A Game of Shadows & Gambit.

  Paul Ashby – Line Producer
  Transferred from Supplementary Membership to Full Membership
  Paul works across a wide range of productions and since 2008 has been Line Producing projects like In The Sleep of Ignorance, Hard Shoulder & Britain's Greatest Codebreaker.

  Helen Bingham – Assistant Accountant
  Transferred from Supplementary Membership to Full Membership
  Helen has been on a string of high profile features in the past couple of years, Nowhere By, Brighton Rock, Jane Eyre, 47 Ronin, Love Life and is currently on The Fast & Furious 6.

  Matthew Bovington – Assistant Accountant
  Transferred from Supplementary Membership to Full Membership
  Matthew has been working exclusively on genuine blockbusters since 2009's Robin Hood through Sherlock Holmes, Captain America: The First Avenger & Prometheus.

  Emma Brazier – Assistant Accountant
  Transferred from Supplementary Membership to Full Membership
  Emma graduated from the 2003 PG Assistant Production Accountants Training Scheme and has earned herself a substantial, high calibre credit list which boasts, among many, Batman Begins, Stardust, Green Zone, Gulliver's Travels, Captain America: The First Avenger & Prometheus.

  Liza Carmel – Production Co-ordinator
  Transferred from Supplementary Membership to Full Membership
  Liza has been Co-ordinating across an array of television productions; BBC credits include The Legend of Dick & Dom, Little Howard and recently a stint as Production Manager for cover on Silent Witness Series 15.

  Donna Casey – Assistant Accountant
  Transferred from Supplementary Membership to Full Membership
  A 2001 PG APATS trainee, Donna kicked off with 28 Days Later and Die Another Day and has continued to work of high end features like Alexander, Stormbreaker, The Golden Compass, Green Zone & Hugo.

  Kay Di Rezze – Assistant Accountant
  Transferred from Supplementary Membership to Full Membership
  In 2006 Kay completed the PG APATS and with The Bourne Ultimatum and Hot Fuzz under her belt has gone on to work on Children of Men, The Dark Knight, Robin Hood, Captain America: The First Avenger and Prometheus.

  Andrew Hardwick – Line Producer
  Transferred from Supplementary Membership to Full Membership
  Andrew works extensively in British independent features Line Producing Extraordinary Rendition, Shifty & Freestyle. Andrew has two productions coming out this years, Ill Manors, which he Line Produced and Song For Marion on which he was Production Manager.

  Jackie Gilbey – Assistant Accountant
  Transferred from Supplementary Membership to Full Membership
  Jackie was an Accounts Assistant on Children of Men in 2005/6, became Assistant Accountant on The Bourne Ultimatum and recently was Payroll Accountant on Johnny English Reborn, Location Accountant on Hanna & AP Supervisor on World War Z.

  Maryllis Gonzalez – Production Accountant
  Transferred from Supplementary Membership to Full Membership
  Maryllis has worked in TV and features, where recent Assistant Accountant credits include The Mule, Knight & Day, Mad Dogs Series 1, Payroll Accountant on World War Z and Location Accountant on The Inbetweeners Movie.

  Paul Imrie – Assistant Accountant
  Transferred from Supplementary Membership to Full Membership
  Filth (Steel Mill Pictures) as Assistant Accountant, Young James Herriot (Shed Media) as Production Accountant and Life of Riley (Series 3) (BBC) as Production Accountant

  Neil Jones – Production Accountant
  Transferred from Supplementary Membership to Full Membership
  Recent Production Accountant credits include: The Last Weekend (Carnival Film & Television), Great Expectations (BBC) and Luther (Series 2) (BBC) Production Accountant

  Matthew Lawson – Assistant Accountant
  Transferred from Supplementary Membership to Full Membership
  Recent Assistant Accountant credits include: Upstairs Downstairs (BBC), Horrid Henry: The Movie (Vertigo Films) and Downton Abbey (Series 2) (Carnival Films)

  Fiona McLaren – Assistant Accountant
  Transferred from Supplementary Membership to Full Membership
  Recent Assistant Accountant credits include: Jack the Giant Killer (Warner Bros / New Line Cinema) as Key Assistant Accountant, Inception (Warner Bros) and Sherlock Holmes (Warner Bros)

  Christine Murray – Assistant Accountant
  Transferred from Supplementary Membership to Full Membership
  Recent Assistant Accountant credits include: Misfits (Series 4) (Clerkenwell Films), The Hour (Kudos Film & Television) and Spooks (Series 10) (Kudos Film & Television)

  Davina Pem – Assistant Accountant
  Transferred from Supplementary Membership to Full Membership
  Recent Assistant Accountant credits include: Dancing on the Edge (BBC) as Key Assistant Accountant, Richard II (BBC / NBCU) and What To Do When Someone Dies (Sally Head Productions)

  Tina Pisano – Assistant Accountant
  Transferred from Supplementary Membership to Full Membership
  Recent Assistant Accountant credits include: The Last Weekend (Carnival Film & Television) Episodes (Series 2) (Hat Trick Productions) and Great Expectations (BBC)

  Tanya Ruby – Assistant Accountant
  Transferred from Supplementary Membership to Full Membership
  Recent credits include: Prometheus (20th Century Fox) as Payroll Accountant, Sherlock Holmes: A Game of Shadows (Warner Bros.) as Assistant Accountant and Captain America: The First Avenger (Marvel) as Assistant Accountant

  Isaac Sananes – Assistant Accountant
  Transferred from Supplementary Membership to Full Membership
  Recent credits include: Wrath of the Titans (Warner Bros.) as Construction Accountant, Hanna as Assistant Accountant and Johnny English Reborn (Working Title Films / Universal Pictures) as Location Accountant

  Richard Slinn – Assistant Accountant
  Transferred from Supplementary Membership to Full Membership
  Recent Assistant Accountant credits include: Prometheus (20th Century Fox), Captain America: The First Avenger (Marvel) and Sherlock Holmes (Warner Bros)

  Membership Upgrades:

  Bianca Gavin - Production Manager
  Upgraded from Production Co-ordinator to Production Manager
  Recent PM credits include: The Wedding Video (Timeless Films) as Production Manager (Additional Photography), The Scapegoat (Island Pictures) and Coming Up (Series 8) (Channel 4 / Touchpaper)

  Sarah Wheale – Production Manager
  Upgraded from Production Co-ordinator to Production Manager
  Recent PM credits include: The Iron Lady (Pathe / Film4), Effie (Sovereign Films) and Africa United (Pathe) as Production Manager (Rwanda/Burundi Unit)

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  03 May 2012

  Screen Yorkshire Reveals New Board Structure Alongside New Board Members

  Screen Yorkshire has appointed three new Board Members, including Sarah Doole, Creative Director for Drama and Head of Indie Drama at BBC Worldwide, as it embarks on delivering the £15m Yorkshire Content Fund for TV, film, games and digital. 

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  The three new Board Members have extensive commercial and financial skills and experience:
  
  Sarah Doole – Sarah is Creative Director for Drama and Head of Indie Drama at BBC Worldwide. She works with indies to finance, distribute and export  British fiction around the world and represents BBC Worldwide on the boards of its invested indies including Stephen Fry’s indie, Sprout, and Clerkenwell, producer of Misfits.  Sarah began her career at Yorkshire Television as a researcher, producer and Head of Development before becoming Director of Enterprises at Yorkshire Tyne Tees. She has worked in the USA for major cable network The Family Channel (now ABC Family) and at Granada as Creative Director for Commercial Ventures. Sarah joined 2Entertain as Head of Independents before moving to the Indie Unit at BBCW in 2007 where she was Director of Drama, Comedy and Children’s for five years.
  
  Ian Roe – Ian is a chartered accountant who has worked in media for over 20 years, primarily in television programme production. Based for 17 years at Yorkshire Television in Leeds he held finance roles in YTV, Granada Productions and, latterly, ITV Productions where he was Director of Finance with a remit across all programme genres and 5 production sites, which together produced around half of ITV's programme slate for the UK and overseas.
  
  Richard Gerard – Richard has held Financial Director roles at B&Q Logistics and at ITV plc during 10 years working within the production/studios businesses. Richard qualified as a chartered accountant with Arthur Anderson & Co at their London office and brings a wealth of experience in audit, having also worked in internal audit within Courtaulds Plc’s worldwide operations in the 1990s. Richard now runs his own FD consultancy business, providing a range of financial and commercial assistance to SMEs in the North of England.     

  In addition, John Surtees, former Director of Resources at ITV and an existing Screen Yorkshire Board Member, takes over as Chair from Steve Abbott (producer of A Fish Called Wanda; Brassed Off; and Michael Palin’s travel series).  Steve stands down after ten years as Chair but will continue as a Board Member alongside Cameron McCracken (Managing Director of Pathe UK and Executive Producer of over 30 films, including The Queen, Slumdog Millionaire and The Iron Lady) and Charles Cecil (Managing Director of Revolution Software and developer of games franchises such as Broken Sword).

  John Surtees, Screen Yorkshire Chair, said: “I’m delighted to take over as Screen Yorkshire’s Chair and would like to thank Steve Abbott for going beyond the call of duty in guiding Screen Yorkshire since its formation ten years ago. We’re entering a new era for the organisation and I know that Sarah, Ian and Richard will bring an abundance of new skills to the organisation. Combined with the continued commitment and expertise of our existing board members we have the ideal balance for this new chapter for Screen Yorkshire.”

   Screen Yorkshire recently launched the new £15m Yorkshire Content Fund which has secured £7,500,000 of investment from the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF), and will be further matched by private sector investors on a project-by-project basis. The Yorkshire Content Fund is managed by Screen Yorkshire and will invest in content creation by Yorkshire-based companies as well as to attract productions looking to establish a base and film within the region.

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  02 May 2012

  Booking Now Open for BFI's Future of UK Film and Lottery Support Consultation Forums

  The BFI will be hosting several forums throughout the UK to discuss its proposals in support of the future of UK film and you can now either book a place or provide feedback online from 14 May 2012. 

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  New Horizons for UK Film outlines the BFI's proposals for investing Lottery support for UK film and sets out a fresh agenda to capitalise on British creativity and talent. The proposals cover a wide range of activities for supporting filmmaking, production, development, distribution and exhibition, education, skills development and film heritage – with a central focus on building audiences across the UK and on all platforms.

  On 14 May BFI will launch a UK-wide consultation on these proposals and they welcome your comments.  Do you agree with BFI priorities? Are BFI proposals right? How can the final plan be improved?

  The BFI have organised the following of forums around the UK between Wednesday 23rd May and Friday 1st June and places are now available at http://futurebfi.eventbrite.co.uk/.

   • Sheffield - Wednesday 23 May, 13:30-16:00
   • Bristol - Thursday 24 May, 13:30-16:00
   • Newcastle - Friday 25 May, 13:00-15:30
   • Cardiff - Friday 25 May, 13:30-16:00
   • Birmingham - Monday 28 May, 13:30-16:00
   • Glasgow - Tuesday 29 May, 13:00-15:00
   • London - Wednesday 30 May, 10:30-12:30
   • Manchester - Thursday 31 May, 13:30-16:00
   • Belfast - Friday 1 June, 13:00-15:30

  Feedback to the consultation can also be supplied online through the consultation questionnaire, which will be available at bfi.org.uk/future. The consultation closes at midnight on 10 June.

  Spaces at the forums are limited so please book early. 

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  01 May 2012

  Andrew Smith Named As New Executive Director On Pinewood Board

  From 1st May 2012 Andrew Smith will be Director of Strategy and Communications for Pinewood Shepperton Plc.

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  Andrew joined the company in June 2008 as Group Director Corporate Affairs. He was appointed Company Secretary on 20 December 2010.

  He is a member of the Film Skills Council, the Skillset Craft and Technical Skills Academy Industry Board, the British Film Commission Advisory Board and the Buckinghamshire Thames Valley Local Enterprise Partnership.
  
  He is a non-Executive Director of Bucks Business First Ltd.

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  26 Apr 2012

  The Production Guild and The Hospital Club Reach New Agreement

   

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  The Production Guild of Great Britain is delighted to announce a new agreement with The Hospital Club, a hub in the heart of London offering the creative community an environment and facilities to create, connect and collaborate.

  The agreement will enable PG Members to have discounted access to the Central London base, exclusively designed and operational 24/7 for the creative industries, which includes a fully functioning TV studio, multiple meeting rooms, restaurants, bars and facilities for hosting screenings and events.

   

  

  Hospital Club Screening Room

   

  Production Guild Members are now able to join The Hospital Club at a discounted rate of £550 per annum (standard rate £650) plus the usual joining fee of £250 will be waived.
  Member only events at The Hospital Club include daily screenings, party nights, talks and seminars, exclusive gigs, art exhibitions and comedy nights.

  PG Members can also now receive Member Rates for hiring the 3D enabled screening room, private dining room, meeting rooms and rehearsal space.

   

  

  Hospital Club Loft Lounge

   

  Members who wish to take up the offer for Membership at The Hospital Club at the discounted PG Member rate should contact Garry or Oliver at garryw@thehospitalclub.com and oliverm@thehospitalclub.com. Members who wish to enquire about booking facilities should also e-mail Garry or Oliver.

  Based in Covent Garden the 60,000 square feet space at 24 Endell Street provides a platform for the Hospital Club's many functions, as a members' club for those in the creative industries, as an award-winning events company, as a venue for some of London's most chic and exclusive events and as a host to exhibitions, installations, private and public views, and parties.

   

  

  Hospital Club Martini Bar

   

  Functioning as a members' club, it invites people in the creative sector to share our facilities and member events - across music, business, art, film, new media and social. The events team create bespoke client events, large and small both at, and outside the Club. The TV and music studios facilitate creativity cross-media from live gigs to TV shows to online games, complete with cutting edge technology and expert in-house personnel.

  The Production Guild is also extremely happy to welcome The Hospital Club as an affiliate member with immediate effect.

  Business Development Manager at The Hospital Club, Garry Williams commented, "The Hospital Club is delighted to become affiliated with the Production Guild. This continues the long term association that The Hospital Club has had with the film industry and we look forward to welcoming PG members through our doors to enjoy our Club and its facilities."

  The Hospital Club website can be visited at http://www.thehospitalclub.com.

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  20 Apr 2012

  50% Discount on Stages at Wimbledon Studios

  PG Affiliate, Wimbledon Studios are offering a 50% discount on all bookings for two sound stages between now and the 3rd June 2012. 

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  The two sound stages on offer, Stages 1 & 2 are approximately 8,000 square feet each. Wimbledon Studios is also home to unique sets including an exterior street, a train carriage, a prison, a courtroom, hospitals, police stations and a House of Commons set.

  Other facilities include modern production offices; meeting rooms, make up and costume rooms, dressing and green rooms, rehearsal space, workshops and storage solutions. There is also plenty of onsite unit and private car parking alongside a 24 hour concierge service onsite complete with CCTV.

  For further information about Wimbledon Studios, please click here to download their E-Brochure.

  To download the flyer for this offer, please click here.

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  20 Apr 2012

  Creative England Launches Website and Unveils New Branding

  A new brand identity designed by Sheffield design agency, Peter and Paul, has been revealed by Creative England, alongside the launch of their new website, which brings in new functionality and features. The new spiral logo in red and purple will be used across Creative England's marketing materials. 

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  Creative England was launched six months ago to provide support for independent creative businesses and individuals across the English regions. The nationwide body grew out of the success of the Regional Screen Agencies, but is broadening its remit and aims to offer specialist support to the games, digital and creative services, as well as to film and television, becoming the first joined up, dedicated support agency for the creative industries outside London.

  The organisation put out an open call for applications for a new brand identity in November last year, asking designers to present an image that captured Creative England's work and values. More than 150 applications were received, of which five were shortlisted.

  Peter and Paul is a small creative team of four run by Peter Donohue and Paul Reardon. To date the company has worked on a diverse portfolio of projects for a range of clients, including Sainsbury's, Nokia, the V&A, Design Council, The Architecture Foundation, and Channel Four.

  Peter and Paul Creative Director Paul Reardon said: "It's important to Creative England that they respond to their new audiences, and let their remit evolve as really required. We had to embrace that fluidity, so the new identity is really about showing them as dynamic and moving.

  "At the same time, we need to remind stakeholders that Creative England is a true authority – experienced and reliable. The logo balances a living, changing hand drawn CE spiral, which is also used decoratively, and the steadiness of the type, with lots of bright, deep colour."

  Creative England CEO Caroline Norbury said: "We are really pleased with the work that Peter and Paul have done for us during this commission. They are a first-rate creative communications agency who have produced a strong and distinctive new identity and branding for us.

  By creating a vibrant logo which reflects the dynamism of the sectors we represent, we think they've captured in a simple, but stylish way, what Creative England and our many partners are working so hard to achieve."

  The new Creative England website can be visited at http://www.creativeengland.co.uk.

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  20 Apr 2012

  Creative Skillset Appoints New Head of Film

  Dan Simmons has been appointed as Creative Skillset's Head of Film after a period of acting in the role. Dan's immediate priority is to oversee delivery of the third and final year of the UK's film skills strategy, A Bigger Future 2, thanks to the BFI's recent confirmation of transition funding for the strategy.

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  A Bigger Future 2 is currently funded annually by £3.65 million from the National Lottery via the BFI, plus £700,000 from industry via the voluntary levy on productions filmed in the UK, the Skills Investment Fund (SIF).

  Chair of Creative Skillset's Film Skills Council, producer Iain Smith, said: "Dan has done a great job over this past year, and I'm delighted he has been confirmed in post as Head of Film. As the Film Policy Review highlighted, A Bigger Future 2 is the 'gold standard' of skills strategies, and a sustained investment in skills is a critical component in building a bright future for our industry, now more than ever as we experience such rapid change. I look forward to working with Dan, the team at Creative Skillset, and the BFI during this crucial time to develop the next phase of our film skills strategy."

  Tim Cagney, Deputy CEO of the BFI, said: "We're delighted to formally welcome Dan into his new role. Creative Skillset is doing a fantastic job delivering vital skills and training support to the UK film industry through A Bigger Future 2, and we look forward to continuing this important partnership with Dan and his team."

  Dan Simmons said: "With UK film and UK film talent enjoying high levels of critical and awards success around the world, and record levels of inward investment into the UK, this is a really exciting time to be involved in skills development for the UK film industry to help ensure we can sustain this momentum.

  "I'm looking forward to working with the industry, the BFI and the Government to respond to the film policy review's recommendations, developing a new skills strategy that helps the UK film industry maintain its world class reputation."

  A Bigger Future 2, which will run until April 2013, has identified five priority areas for investment. These are: new technologies; creative talent; business skills; new trainees and; health and safety.

  Since it was launched in 2004, A Bigger Future has supported more than 19,000 professionals already working in the industry in areas such as 3D, visual effects, producer training and many more, and over 500 new entrants in priority grades such as VFX, assistant accountants, and craft and tech grades. Creative Skillset has made the Lottery investment go even further by leveraging over £70 million in match funding. 

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  19 Apr 2012

  Craft and Technical Film Trainees Now Available Through Skillset Scheme

  Trainees are now available for UK feature film productions at highly subsidised rates through the Skillset Craft and Technical Skills Academy.  The scheme will pay 70% of their wages for a 40 hour week within craft and technical departments.

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  Productions that have paid the Skills Investment Fund (SIF) are eligible to recruit up to five film trainees to work in the following departments:

   • Art Department
   • Camera
   • Costume & Wardrobe
   • Editing
   • Hair and Make-up
   • Script Supervisor
   • Production Sound

  All of the trainees have been through a rigorous recruitment process and have attended a high quality film course and/or have film experience working on features.

  To ensure our trainees are set ready they also attend a two day intensive training course at Pinewood Studios run by The Production Guild.

  "We had three trainees on Last Passenger and they were all very good. They fitted in well to their respective departments and contributed greatly to the production. I am sure they will all go on to succeed in the industry" Donall McCusker, Line Producer (Last Passenger, The Hurt Locker (Co-producer) 

  "The Trainee Placement Scheme keeps things fresh with new people coming up the ranks. It also helps when working with very low budget" Nicky Earnshaw, Production Manager, (Welcome to the Punch, Johnny English Reborn)

  To find out more about the Trainee Placement Scheme please visit