The UK industry gathered at the Cannes UK pavilion yesterday (May 16) to celebrate the work of the eight projects taking part in this year’s Cannes Great 8 showcase.
Christopher Andrews’ Bring Them Down starring Barry Keoghan and Christopher Abbott, Sean Dunn’s The Fall Of Sir Douglas Weatherford and Marianne Elliott’s The Salt Path were among the eight titles taking part, with filmmakers taking to the stage to discuss their projects.
Scroll down to see the full line-up
The only documentary in this year’s line-up is Witches, from Elizabeth Sankey, in which the filmmaker explores the unexpected connections...
Christopher Andrews’ Bring Them Down starring Barry Keoghan and Christopher Abbott, Sean Dunn’s The Fall Of Sir Douglas Weatherford and Marianne Elliott’s The Salt Path were among the eight titles taking part, with filmmakers taking to the stage to discuss their projects.
Scroll down to see the full line-up
The only documentary in this year’s line-up is Witches, from Elizabeth Sankey, in which the filmmaker explores the unexpected connections...
- 5/17/2024
- ScreenDaily
Despite the glass-ceiling-smashing success of Greta Gerwig’s Barbie, gender parity in the global film sector remains a distant goal. Re-Framing the Picture, a recent study from an international and multidisciplinary research team looking at the German, British and Canadian film industries, projects that, at the current rate of progress, true 50-50 equality in key creative positions won’t be reached until 2041 in Germany, 2085 in the U.K., and 2215 (!) in Canada. It’s not an optimistic forecast for the producers, managers, film executives and talents picked by THR as the most influential women in international cinema, but they continue to find new models to produce, finance and distribute movies that amplify diverse voices. More than ever, it’s their efforts that are required if the promise of a more representative and inclusive film industry is ever to be realized.
Mo Abudu
CEO, EbonyLife Media (Nigeria)
Africa’s production industry was...
Mo Abudu
CEO, EbonyLife Media (Nigeria)
Africa’s production industry was...
- 5/13/2024
- by Patrick Brzeski, Scott Roxborough and Georg Szalai
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Exclusive: On the heels of her acclaimed directorial debut Passing, Rebecca Hall has found her next filmmaking vehicle in Four Days Like Sunday, a mother-daughter drama inspired by her own history, which she’s written to direct and will star in for See-Saw Films.
Set in the mid 1990s, the film follows 12-year-old Jane as she begins to rebel against her role as proxy-carer for her mother Sylvia (Hall), a recently divorced and ever so slightly fading Broadway diva. During a long weekend break between concert dates, Sylvia hosts Benton, Chris and Rahim, three male dancers from her current tour, at her anachronistically grand country house. She is also expecting the arrival of Dale, her handsome younger boyfriend. As Jane does her best to protect her mother from everything that threatens to disturb her delicate equilibrium, she moves quietly from childhood into something else-wiser, freer, and more alone.
Four Days...
Set in the mid 1990s, the film follows 12-year-old Jane as she begins to rebel against her role as proxy-carer for her mother Sylvia (Hall), a recently divorced and ever so slightly fading Broadway diva. During a long weekend break between concert dates, Sylvia hosts Benton, Chris and Rahim, three male dancers from her current tour, at her anachronistically grand country house. She is also expecting the arrival of Dale, her handsome younger boyfriend. As Jane does her best to protect her mother from everything that threatens to disturb her delicate equilibrium, she moves quietly from childhood into something else-wiser, freer, and more alone.
Four Days...
- 5/8/2024
- by Matt Grobar
- Deadline Film + TV
Bankside Films has boarded world sales on UK writer-director Thea Gajić’s feature debut, Surviving Earth, ahead of its screening in the Cannes Great 8 showcase, and unleashed a first-look image.
Surviving Earth is based on a true story. A talented harmonica player arrives in the UK in the 1990s after fleeing the conflict in Yugoslavia. He rebuilds his life in Bristol, working as a counsellor and forming a Balkan band with friends from his work. When traumas from his past life start to resurface, his life starts to fracture, with his beloved only daughter the hardest hit.
Cast includes Slavko Sobin,...
Surviving Earth is based on a true story. A talented harmonica player arrives in the UK in the 1990s after fleeing the conflict in Yugoslavia. He rebuilds his life in Bristol, working as a counsellor and forming a Balkan band with friends from his work. When traumas from his past life start to resurface, his life starts to fracture, with his beloved only daughter the hardest hit.
Cast includes Slavko Sobin,...
- 5/8/2024
- ScreenDaily
Speakers and mentors taking part include BFI Filmmaking Fund director Mia Bays and Bafta chair Sara Putt.
Reclaim The Frame, the UK’s gender equality in cinema charity, has set the filmmakers from across the UK who will take part in the eighth edition of professional development programme, Filmonomics, with BFI Filmmaking Fund director Mia Bays and Bafta chair Sara Putt among the mentors and speakers offering their support.
Among the 18 filmmakers taking part for this edition are director Jessica Bishopp, who has had documentary shorts premiere in BFI London Film Festival and SXSW; Bafta Scotland-nominated producer and founder of Lothian Films,...
Reclaim The Frame, the UK’s gender equality in cinema charity, has set the filmmakers from across the UK who will take part in the eighth edition of professional development programme, Filmonomics, with BFI Filmmaking Fund director Mia Bays and Bafta chair Sara Putt among the mentors and speakers offering their support.
Among the 18 filmmakers taking part for this edition are director Jessica Bishopp, who has had documentary shorts premiere in BFI London Film Festival and SXSW; Bafta Scotland-nominated producer and founder of Lothian Films,...
- 12/8/2023
- by Mona Tabbara
- ScreenDaily
Because the fall festivals had fewer actors and writers on hand due to the strikes, more independent movies came into the season looking for buyers. And even with AMPTP buyers getting cold feet on some with interim agreements, many titles have already found homes, making it one of the busiest fall festival seasons across Venice, Toronto, and Telluride in recent memory.
Below is the running list of movies that have found buyers.
Movies Acquired After the Festivals
“Ezra”
Section: TIFF Gala Presentations
Distributor: Bleecker Street
Date Acquired: Nov. 6
Bleecker Street’s second TIFF acquisition is “Ezra,” the family dramedy from director Tony Goldwyn that stars Bobby Cannavale, Rose Byrne, and Robert De Niro. The distributor is planning a 2024 theatrical release.
“Ezra” follows a once successful late-night comedy writer turned less-successful stand-up comic also struggling through the failure of his career and marriage. After moving in with his father, Stan (De Niro...
Below is the running list of movies that have found buyers.
Movies Acquired After the Festivals
“Ezra”
Section: TIFF Gala Presentations
Distributor: Bleecker Street
Date Acquired: Nov. 6
Bleecker Street’s second TIFF acquisition is “Ezra,” the family dramedy from director Tony Goldwyn that stars Bobby Cannavale, Rose Byrne, and Robert De Niro. The distributor is planning a 2024 theatrical release.
“Ezra” follows a once successful late-night comedy writer turned less-successful stand-up comic also struggling through the failure of his career and marriage. After moving in with his father, Stan (De Niro...
- 11/6/2023
- by Brian Welk
- Indiewire
Molly Manning Walker, the English cinematographer-turned-filmmaker whose debut feature “How to Have Sex” won a prize at this year’s Cannes Film Festival, has signed with CAA for representation.
Penned and directed by Manning Walker, “How to Have Sex” world premiered at Cannes in Un Certain Regard, where it won the top prize and earned unanimous praise. The film follows three British teenage girls who go on a holiday in sun-drenched Crete and find themselves navigating the complexities of sex, consent and self-discovery.
Variety‘s Guy Lodge described the film as “fresh, head-turning debut” that “lays out the minefield of sexual education and consent for a post-#MeToo generation, with a precision to its ambiguities that will draw gasps from its characters’ contemporaries and elders alike.” The movie was acquired by Mubi in multiple territories before debuting in Cannes. It will be released theatrically by Mubi on Nov. 3 in the U.
Penned and directed by Manning Walker, “How to Have Sex” world premiered at Cannes in Un Certain Regard, where it won the top prize and earned unanimous praise. The film follows three British teenage girls who go on a holiday in sun-drenched Crete and find themselves navigating the complexities of sex, consent and self-discovery.
Variety‘s Guy Lodge described the film as “fresh, head-turning debut” that “lays out the minefield of sexual education and consent for a post-#MeToo generation, with a precision to its ambiguities that will draw gasps from its characters’ contemporaries and elders alike.” The movie was acquired by Mubi in multiple territories before debuting in Cannes. It will be released theatrically by Mubi on Nov. 3 in the U.
- 11/3/2023
- by Elsa Keslassy
- Variety Film + TV
Sony Pictures Classics has acquired rights in North America and China to mystery-comedy Wicked Little Letters from Studiocanal, for a 2024 theatrical release.
The film is directed by Thea Sharrock (Me Before You) from a screenplay by Jonny Sweet (Greed). Olivia Colman and Jessie Buckley co-star in the period comedy-drama which world premiered at the 2023 Toronto International Film Festival.
Additional cast include Anjana Vasan, Timothy Spall, Hugh Skinner, Malachi Kirby, Gemma Jones), Lolly Adefope), Eileen Atkins and Alisha Weir.
The deal was negotiated between SPC and Studiocanal, which financed the film with Film4. Sony Pictures’ Stage 6 Films previously acquired additional international rights.
The film is produced by Blueprint Pictures alongside South of The River Pictures and Jo Wallett.
It is executive produced by Anna Marsh, Ron Halpern, and Joe Naftalin for Studiocanal and Daniel Battsek, Ollie Madden, and Farhana Bhula for Film4. In addition to writing the screenplay,...
The film is directed by Thea Sharrock (Me Before You) from a screenplay by Jonny Sweet (Greed). Olivia Colman and Jessie Buckley co-star in the period comedy-drama which world premiered at the 2023 Toronto International Film Festival.
Additional cast include Anjana Vasan, Timothy Spall, Hugh Skinner, Malachi Kirby, Gemma Jones), Lolly Adefope), Eileen Atkins and Alisha Weir.
The deal was negotiated between SPC and Studiocanal, which financed the film with Film4. Sony Pictures’ Stage 6 Films previously acquired additional international rights.
The film is produced by Blueprint Pictures alongside South of The River Pictures and Jo Wallett.
It is executive produced by Anna Marsh, Ron Halpern, and Joe Naftalin for Studiocanal and Daniel Battsek, Ollie Madden, and Farhana Bhula for Film4. In addition to writing the screenplay,...
- 11/3/2023
- by Melanie Goodfellow
- Deadline Film + TV
Delivering some late deal-making momentum to the American Film Market, Sony Pictures Classics snatched up North America and China distribution rights to the British black comedy mystery film Wicked Little Letters, starring Olivia Colman and Jessie Buckley.
Sony acquired the rights from StudioCanal and will release the film theatrically in 2024.
Directed by Thea Sharrock (Me Before You) from a screenplay by Jonny Sweet (Greed), Wicked Little Letters is based on a true scandal that stunned 1920s England. The story centers on neighbors Edith Swan (Colman) and rowdy Irish migrant Rose Gooding (Buckley) in the seaside town of Littlehampton. One day, a series of obscene letters begin to target Edith and others, and when suspicion falls on Rose, the women of the town suspect something is amiss and decide to investigate.
Wicked Little Letters recently had its world premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival.
The film’s cast is rounded...
Sony acquired the rights from StudioCanal and will release the film theatrically in 2024.
Directed by Thea Sharrock (Me Before You) from a screenplay by Jonny Sweet (Greed), Wicked Little Letters is based on a true scandal that stunned 1920s England. The story centers on neighbors Edith Swan (Colman) and rowdy Irish migrant Rose Gooding (Buckley) in the seaside town of Littlehampton. One day, a series of obscene letters begin to target Edith and others, and when suspicion falls on Rose, the women of the town suspect something is amiss and decide to investigate.
Wicked Little Letters recently had its world premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival.
The film’s cast is rounded...
- 11/3/2023
- by Patrick Brzeski
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Sony Pictures Classics just picked up the distribution rights in both North America and China for “Wicked Little Letters.” The StudioCanal film, directed by Thea Sharrock (“Me Before You”) and penned by Jonny Sweet (“Greed”), stars Olivia Colman and Jessie Buckley and made its premiere at this year’s Toronto International Film Festival. The film is expected to open theatrically in 2024.
“Wicked Little Letters” takes place in a 1920s English seaside town which gets turned upside down when the residents begin receiving mysterious letters filled with profanities. The scandal, based on true-life events, creates a national uproar as the town’s women take it upon themselves to deduce the culprit.
StudioCanal’s Head of International Sales Chloe Marquet said, “We are thrilled to partner with SPC on ‘Wicked Little Letters’ and closely following the fantastic reception in TIFF. We know that SPC is the ideal partner to bring this very...
“Wicked Little Letters” takes place in a 1920s English seaside town which gets turned upside down when the residents begin receiving mysterious letters filled with profanities. The scandal, based on true-life events, creates a national uproar as the town’s women take it upon themselves to deduce the culprit.
StudioCanal’s Head of International Sales Chloe Marquet said, “We are thrilled to partner with SPC on ‘Wicked Little Letters’ and closely following the fantastic reception in TIFF. We know that SPC is the ideal partner to bring this very...
- 11/3/2023
- by Scott Mendelson
- The Wrap
Sony Pictures Classics has acquired North American rights to “Wicked Little Letters,” a stranger-than-fiction mystery comedy starring Olivia Colman and Jessie Buckley. The movie, directed by “Me Before You” filmmaker Thea Sharrock, had its world premiere at this year’s Toronto International Film Festival.
“Wicked Little Letters” will debut in theaters sometime in 2024.
Set in a 1920s English seaside town amid a “dark and absurd scandal,” the film follows the true story of two neighbors: the deeply conservative local Edith Swan (Colman) and the rowdy Irish migrant Rose Gooding (Buckley). When Edith and fellow residents begin to receive wicked letters full of unintentionally hilarious profanities, fouth-mouthed Rose is charged with the crime. The anonymous letters prompt a national uproar, and a trial ensues — but as the town’s women start to investigate, they suspect that Rose may not be the culprit after all.
“’Wicked Little Letters’ not only showcases great...
“Wicked Little Letters” will debut in theaters sometime in 2024.
Set in a 1920s English seaside town amid a “dark and absurd scandal,” the film follows the true story of two neighbors: the deeply conservative local Edith Swan (Colman) and the rowdy Irish migrant Rose Gooding (Buckley). When Edith and fellow residents begin to receive wicked letters full of unintentionally hilarious profanities, fouth-mouthed Rose is charged with the crime. The anonymous letters prompt a national uproar, and a trial ensues — but as the town’s women start to investigate, they suspect that Rose may not be the culprit after all.
“’Wicked Little Letters’ not only showcases great...
- 11/3/2023
- by Rebecca Rubin
- Variety Film + TV
The comedy with Olivia Colman and Jessie Buckley premiered at this year’s Toronto.
Sony Pictures Classics (SPC) has acquired rights for North America and China to Thea Sharrock’s comedy Wicked Little Letters.
SPC is planning a 2024 theatrical release for the film, which had its premiere at this year’s Toronto festival.
Sony’s Stage 6 Films previously acquired rights to the film for markets including Latin America, Scandinavia, Asia, Eastern Europe, the Commonwealth of Independent States and the Baltics.
Financed by Studiocanal and Film4, Wicked Little Letters is directed by British theatre and film maker Sharrock from a screenplay by Jonny Sweet.
Sony Pictures Classics (SPC) has acquired rights for North America and China to Thea Sharrock’s comedy Wicked Little Letters.
SPC is planning a 2024 theatrical release for the film, which had its premiere at this year’s Toronto festival.
Sony’s Stage 6 Films previously acquired rights to the film for markets including Latin America, Scandinavia, Asia, Eastern Europe, the Commonwealth of Independent States and the Baltics.
Financed by Studiocanal and Film4, Wicked Little Letters is directed by British theatre and film maker Sharrock from a screenplay by Jonny Sweet.
- 11/3/2023
- by John Hazelton
- ScreenDaily
The BFI and Film4 have selected what has been described as nine “high-budget” short film projects that will receive cash funding in the first round of awards from their Future Takes short film fund.
Each selected filmmaking team is set to be awarded between £55,000-£90,000 to create their projects. The nine greenlit projects will shoot between September 2023 and spring 2024. In addition to production funding, BFI and Film4 creative and production executives will support each film through its entire lifecycle. Once completed, the films will be screened at a showcase at BFI Southbank, after which they will be available on Channel 4 streaming and BFI Player.
Launched with an open call in December 2022, the BFI and Film4 said they received over 400 applications for Future Takes. The two companies said the quality of projects was “incredibly high,” which led them to agree to fund nine projects rather than seven per their initial open call.
Each selected filmmaking team is set to be awarded between £55,000-£90,000 to create their projects. The nine greenlit projects will shoot between September 2023 and spring 2024. In addition to production funding, BFI and Film4 creative and production executives will support each film through its entire lifecycle. Once completed, the films will be screened at a showcase at BFI Southbank, after which they will be available on Channel 4 streaming and BFI Player.
Launched with an open call in December 2022, the BFI and Film4 said they received over 400 applications for Future Takes. The two companies said the quality of projects was “incredibly high,” which led them to agree to fund nine projects rather than seven per their initial open call.
- 9/28/2023
- by Zac Ntim
- Deadline Film + TV
Recipients including Screen Star of Tomorrow 2023 Rory Fleck Byrne and ’Chuck Chucky Baby’ producers Anne Beresford and Andrew Gillman.
The British Film Institute (BFI) and Film4 have unveiled the nine short films that will receive funding through their Future Takes programme,.
It will see each filmmaking team receive between £55,000 and £90,000 of National Lottery funding, with recipients including Screen Star of Tomorrow 2023 Rory Fleck Byrne and Chuck Chucky Baby producers Anne Beresford and Andrew Gillman.
Actor-director Fleck Byrne, who stared in BBC drama series This Is Going To Hurt, has been selected for In Heat, produced Radha Bhandari, whose short For...
The British Film Institute (BFI) and Film4 have unveiled the nine short films that will receive funding through their Future Takes programme,.
It will see each filmmaking team receive between £55,000 and £90,000 of National Lottery funding, with recipients including Screen Star of Tomorrow 2023 Rory Fleck Byrne and Chuck Chucky Baby producers Anne Beresford and Andrew Gillman.
Actor-director Fleck Byrne, who stared in BBC drama series This Is Going To Hurt, has been selected for In Heat, produced Radha Bhandari, whose short For...
- 9/28/2023
- by Mona Tabbara
- ScreenDaily
Searchlight Pictures’ theatrical trailer for All of Us Strangers teases the fantasy/drama without completely spoiling the storyline. Following the film’s successful festival run – it currently sits at 94% fresh on Rotten Tomatoes – All of Us Strangers is set to open in theaters on December 22, 2023.
Paul Mescal (Aftersun), Andrew Scott (Fleabag), Jamie Bell (Shining Girls), and Claire Foy (The Crown) star in the drama based on the novel Strangers by Taichi Yamada. Andrew Haigh adapted Yamada’s novel and directs, with Graham Broadbent, Peter Czernin, and Sarah Harvey producing. Diarmuid Mckeown, Ben Knight, Ollie Madden, Daniel Battsek, and Farhana Bhula serve as executive producers.
Searchlight Pictures offer this synopsis:
One night in his near-empty tower block in contemporary London, Adam (Scott) has a chance encounter with a mysterious neighbor Harry (Mescal), which punctures the rhythm of his everyday life. As a relationship develops between them, Adam is preoccupied with memories...
Paul Mescal (Aftersun), Andrew Scott (Fleabag), Jamie Bell (Shining Girls), and Claire Foy (The Crown) star in the drama based on the novel Strangers by Taichi Yamada. Andrew Haigh adapted Yamada’s novel and directs, with Graham Broadbent, Peter Czernin, and Sarah Harvey producing. Diarmuid Mckeown, Ben Knight, Ollie Madden, Daniel Battsek, and Farhana Bhula serve as executive producers.
Searchlight Pictures offer this synopsis:
One night in his near-empty tower block in contemporary London, Adam (Scott) has a chance encounter with a mysterious neighbor Harry (Mescal), which punctures the rhythm of his everyday life. As a relationship develops between them, Adam is preoccupied with memories...
- 9/21/2023
- by Rebecca Murray
- Showbiz Junkies
All of Us Strangers, the new drama from Fox Searchlight Pictures, has just released its trailer and shows that even if it’s incredibly painful or filled with sorrow, you can go home again.
The official synopsis from Fox Searchlight Pictures reads,
“One night in his near-empty tower block in contemporary London, Adam (Andrew Scott) has a chance encounter with a mysterious neighbor Harry (Paul Mescal), which punctures the rhythm of his everyday life. As a relationship develops between them, Adam is preoccupied with memories of the past and finds himself drawn back to the suburban town where he grew up, and the childhood home where his parents (Claire Foy and Jamie Bell), appear to be living, just as they were on the day they died, 30 years before.”
The cast includes Andrew Scott, Paul Mescal, Jamie Bell and Claire Foy. Graham Broadbent, Pete Czernin and Sarah Harvey are serving as the producers on the film.
The official synopsis from Fox Searchlight Pictures reads,
“One night in his near-empty tower block in contemporary London, Adam (Andrew Scott) has a chance encounter with a mysterious neighbor Harry (Paul Mescal), which punctures the rhythm of his everyday life. As a relationship develops between them, Adam is preoccupied with memories of the past and finds himself drawn back to the suburban town where he grew up, and the childhood home where his parents (Claire Foy and Jamie Bell), appear to be living, just as they were on the day they died, 30 years before.”
The cast includes Andrew Scott, Paul Mescal, Jamie Bell and Claire Foy. Graham Broadbent, Pete Czernin and Sarah Harvey are serving as the producers on the film.
- 9/21/2023
- by EJ Tangonan
- JoBlo.com
It’s fitting that British filmmaker Charlotte Regan’s first feature — the charming Sundance winner “Scrapper” — follows a precocious 12-year-old who is startlingly adept at taking care of herself, because Regan’s got a bit of that in her, too. The London native’s childhood wasn’t exactly like that of “Scrapper” lead Georgie (played by newcomer Lola Campbell), who fends for herself after the passing of her mother, a dreamy if fragile existence punctuated by the arrival of her immature dad Jason (Harris Dickinson), but there was certainly a bit of Georgie’s spirit in those early years.
Consider Regan’s early cinema-going memories. During a recent interview with IndieWire, Regan was asked about her experiences seeing films as a kid. What did she remember? “I was too young for sure, but my nan snuck me into ‘Lord of the Rings,’ because the cinema we went to, you could...
Consider Regan’s early cinema-going memories. During a recent interview with IndieWire, Regan was asked about her experiences seeing films as a kid. What did she remember? “I was too young for sure, but my nan snuck me into ‘Lord of the Rings,’ because the cinema we went to, you could...
- 8/24/2023
- by Kate Erbland
- Indiewire
TIFF continues to build out its speaker lineup despite the SAG-AFTRA and WGA strikes barring a number of participants from this year’s 48th edition.
Of note, actor Viggo Mortensen will appear on stage in Toronto to discuss his feature directorial debut, the western The Dead Don’t Hurt, a movie he also stars in with Garret Dillahunt, Danny Huston and Vicky Krieps. Despite the SAG-AFTRA strike, Mortensen will appear at TIFF under the guise of director. He’ll be joined by producer Jeremy Thomas and Regina Solórzano. Global rights are available on The Dead Don’t Hurt; HanWay Films is handling.
Also having onstage conversations in the Visionaries section are Oscar winners Guillermo del Toro and Spike Lee.
Last week, TIFF announced that Pedro Almodovar, who is already receiving a tribute at the fest, Hong Kong actor Andy Lau and the stars of Korean disaster epic, Concrete Utopia, are already set to have sitdown conversations.
Of note, actor Viggo Mortensen will appear on stage in Toronto to discuss his feature directorial debut, the western The Dead Don’t Hurt, a movie he also stars in with Garret Dillahunt, Danny Huston and Vicky Krieps. Despite the SAG-AFTRA strike, Mortensen will appear at TIFF under the guise of director. He’ll be joined by producer Jeremy Thomas and Regina Solórzano. Global rights are available on The Dead Don’t Hurt; HanWay Films is handling.
Also having onstage conversations in the Visionaries section are Oscar winners Guillermo del Toro and Spike Lee.
Last week, TIFF announced that Pedro Almodovar, who is already receiving a tribute at the fest, Hong Kong actor Andy Lau and the stars of Korean disaster epic, Concrete Utopia, are already set to have sitdown conversations.
- 8/14/2023
- by Anthony D'Alessandro
- Deadline Film + TV
Speakers include Guillermo del Toro, Ladj Ly, Nadine Labaki, Viggo Mortenson, Jeremy Thomas.
TIFF top brass have unveiled the bulk of the TIFF Industry Conference line-up with sessions and speakers including Spike Lee, Lucy Walker, AI and film, and African cinema and film industries.
The Conference is divided into six sections and encompasses Doc Day and the new Sloane science and technology project pitch initiative funded by Alfred P. Sloan Foundation’s Public Understanding of Science and Technology programme.
Besides Lee and Walker, whose acquisition title Mountain Queen: The Summits Of Lhakpa Sherpa will premiere in TIFF Docs, speakers include Guillermo del Toro,...
TIFF top brass have unveiled the bulk of the TIFF Industry Conference line-up with sessions and speakers including Spike Lee, Lucy Walker, AI and film, and African cinema and film industries.
The Conference is divided into six sections and encompasses Doc Day and the new Sloane science and technology project pitch initiative funded by Alfred P. Sloan Foundation’s Public Understanding of Science and Technology programme.
Besides Lee and Walker, whose acquisition title Mountain Queen: The Summits Of Lhakpa Sherpa will premiere in TIFF Docs, speakers include Guillermo del Toro,...
- 8/14/2023
- by Jeremy Kay
- ScreenDaily
Guests to attend include Harris Dickinson, Emilia Jones, Anton Corbijn.
New BFI London Film Festival director Kristy Matheson, Elysian CEO Danny Perkins and producers Tristan Goligher and Mary Burke are among the recent additions to the industry programme at next month’s Sundance Film Festival: London (July 6-9).
All four will be speaking at the event, as will filmmakers Gurinder Chadha, Alice Lowe, Marianna Palka and Zeina Durra; composer Nainita Desai; and Screen Star of Tomorrow 2021 casting director Heather Basten.
Further new speakers include A24 executives Harpa Manku and Tom Lazenby; and Luane Gauer, SVP, international production and acquisitions at Black Bear International.
New BFI London Film Festival director Kristy Matheson, Elysian CEO Danny Perkins and producers Tristan Goligher and Mary Burke are among the recent additions to the industry programme at next month’s Sundance Film Festival: London (July 6-9).
All four will be speaking at the event, as will filmmakers Gurinder Chadha, Alice Lowe, Marianna Palka and Zeina Durra; composer Nainita Desai; and Screen Star of Tomorrow 2021 casting director Heather Basten.
Further new speakers include A24 executives Harpa Manku and Tom Lazenby; and Luane Gauer, SVP, international production and acquisitions at Black Bear International.
- 6/15/2023
- by Ben Dalton
- ScreenDaily
Guests to attend include Harris Dickinson, Emilia Jones, Anton Corbijn.
New BFI London Film Festival director Kristy Matheson, Elysian CEO Danny Perkins and producers Tristan Goligher and Mary Burke are among the recent additions to the industry programme at next month’s Sundance Film Festival: London (July 6-9).
All four will be speaking at the event, as will filmmakers Gurinder Chadha, Alice Lowe, Marianna Palka and Zeina Durra; composer Nainita Desai; and Screen Star of Tomorrow 2021 casting director Heather Basten.
Further new speakers include A24 executives Harpa Manku and Tom Lazenby; and Luane Gauer, SVP, international production and acquisitions at Black Bear International.
New BFI London Film Festival director Kristy Matheson, Elysian CEO Danny Perkins and producers Tristan Goligher and Mary Burke are among the recent additions to the industry programme at next month’s Sundance Film Festival: London (July 6-9).
All four will be speaking at the event, as will filmmakers Gurinder Chadha, Alice Lowe, Marianna Palka and Zeina Durra; composer Nainita Desai; and Screen Star of Tomorrow 2021 casting director Heather Basten.
Further new speakers include A24 executives Harpa Manku and Tom Lazenby; and Luane Gauer, SVP, international production and acquisitions at Black Bear International.
- 6/15/2023
- by Ben Dalton
- ScreenDaily
Emma Mackey Joins Vicky Krieps, Fiona Shaw in ‘Hot Milk,’ HanWay Films Selling in Cannes (Exclusive)
“Emily” star Emma Mackey has joined the cast of “Hot Milk,” the adaptation of the bestselling novel by Deborah Levy.
The BAFTA winner will lead the cast alongside Fiona Shaw (“Killing Eve”), Vicky Krieps (“Corsage”), Vincent Perez (“Shantaram”) and Patsy Ferran (“Living”). HanWay Films has worldwide sales rights and will shop the pic to buyers in Cannes next week.
“Hot Milk” marks the directorial debut of award-winning writer Rebecca Lenkiewicz. It will start shooting in July in Greece in co-production with Heretic Films.
The film explores the complexities of the mother-daughter relationship against the hot and atmospheric backdrop of Almería in Spain.
The story centers on Rose (Shaw) and her daughter Sofia (Mackey), who travel to a seaside resort in Spain, to consult with the shamanic Dr Gomez (Perez), a physician who could possibly hold the cure to Rose’s mystery illness, which has left her bound to a wheelchair.
The BAFTA winner will lead the cast alongside Fiona Shaw (“Killing Eve”), Vicky Krieps (“Corsage”), Vincent Perez (“Shantaram”) and Patsy Ferran (“Living”). HanWay Films has worldwide sales rights and will shop the pic to buyers in Cannes next week.
“Hot Milk” marks the directorial debut of award-winning writer Rebecca Lenkiewicz. It will start shooting in July in Greece in co-production with Heretic Films.
The film explores the complexities of the mother-daughter relationship against the hot and atmospheric backdrop of Almería in Spain.
The story centers on Rose (Shaw) and her daughter Sofia (Mackey), who travel to a seaside resort in Spain, to consult with the shamanic Dr Gomez (Perez), a physician who could possibly hold the cure to Rose’s mystery illness, which has left her bound to a wheelchair.
- 5/10/2023
- by Manori Ravindran
- Variety Film + TV
Mubi has acquired all rights for Molly Manning Walker’s directorial debut “How to Have Sex” for major territories.
The deal covers North America, U.K., Ireland, Italy, Latin America, Turkey and Benelux ahead of the movie’s world premiere at Cannes in the Un Certain Regard section.
Theatrical releases are planned for key territories, including the U.S. and U.K. In Benelux, the film will be released theatrically in partnership with Imagine Film Distribution. Following theatrical releases, the film will premier exclusively on Mubi in all territories acquired.
Written and directed by Manning Walker, “How to Have Sex” stars Mia McKenna-Bruce (“Persuasion”) alongside Lara Peake (“Mood”), Shaun Thomas (“Ali & Ava”), Samuel Bottomley (“Somewhere Boy”), and newcomers Enva Lewis and Laura Ambler. The film was shot by Nicolas Canniccioni.
In the film, three British teenage girls go on a rites-of-passage holiday – drinking, clubbing and hooking up, in what should...
The deal covers North America, U.K., Ireland, Italy, Latin America, Turkey and Benelux ahead of the movie’s world premiere at Cannes in the Un Certain Regard section.
Theatrical releases are planned for key territories, including the U.S. and U.K. In Benelux, the film will be released theatrically in partnership with Imagine Film Distribution. Following theatrical releases, the film will premier exclusively on Mubi in all territories acquired.
Written and directed by Manning Walker, “How to Have Sex” stars Mia McKenna-Bruce (“Persuasion”) alongside Lara Peake (“Mood”), Shaun Thomas (“Ali & Ava”), Samuel Bottomley (“Somewhere Boy”), and newcomers Enva Lewis and Laura Ambler. The film was shot by Nicolas Canniccioni.
In the film, three British teenage girls go on a rites-of-passage holiday – drinking, clubbing and hooking up, in what should...
- 4/27/2023
- by Manori Ravindran
- Variety Film + TV
Mubi has acquired British filmmaker Molly Manning Walker’s debut feature How to Have Sex, which is set to debut in Un Certain Regard at the forthcoming Cannes Film Festival.
The streamer has taken all rights for North America, the UK, Ireland, Italy, Latin America, Turkey, and Benelux. Announcing the deal, Mubi said theatrical releases are planned for “key territories,” including the US and UK, while a theatrical release in the Benelux will be hosted in partnership with Imagine Film Distribution. Following theatrical releases, the film will debut on Mubi in all territories acquired.
Written and directed by Walker, the pic stars Mia McKenna-Bruce alongside Lara Peake, Shaun Thomas, Samuel Bottomley, and newcomers Enva Lewis and Laura Ambler. The film was shot by Nicolas Canniccioni.
Billed as an “exuberant, nuanced and painfully honest” tale...
The streamer has taken all rights for North America, the UK, Ireland, Italy, Latin America, Turkey, and Benelux. Announcing the deal, Mubi said theatrical releases are planned for “key territories,” including the US and UK, while a theatrical release in the Benelux will be hosted in partnership with Imagine Film Distribution. Following theatrical releases, the film will debut on Mubi in all territories acquired.
Written and directed by Walker, the pic stars Mia McKenna-Bruce alongside Lara Peake, Shaun Thomas, Samuel Bottomley, and newcomers Enva Lewis and Laura Ambler. The film was shot by Nicolas Canniccioni.
Billed as an “exuberant, nuanced and painfully honest” tale...
- 4/27/2023
- by Zac Ntim
- Deadline Film + TV
First Look
U.K. broadcaster Channel 4 has released a first look image of its new comedy series, “Big Mood” (working title), produced by Fremantle‘s Dancing Ledge Productions. The six-part series explores the intricacies of female friendship when confronted with the complexities of serious mental illness.
Starring in the show are Nicola Coughlan and Lydia West. Joining the ensemble cast are Niamh Cusack, Eamon Farren, Luke Fetherston, Kate Fleetwood, Rob Gilbert, Rebecca Lowman, Sally Phillips, Ukweli Roach, and Amalia Vitale. The cast also includes Olu Adaeze, Max Bennett, Skylar Betteridge, David Bedella, Tim Downie, Ron Donachie, Sarah Durham, Lara Grace Ilori, Neil Edmond, Amy Gledhill, Maddie Grace Jepson, Tom Rhys Harries, Layla-Belle Matthews, Simon Meacock, David Mumeni, David Newman, Freya Parker, Shuna Snow, Sid Sagar, Stephen Sobal, Lottie Tolhurst, Isobel Thom and Robin Weaver.
Joanna Page, best known for her roles in “Love Actually” and “Gavin and Stacey,” will make a guest appearance,...
U.K. broadcaster Channel 4 has released a first look image of its new comedy series, “Big Mood” (working title), produced by Fremantle‘s Dancing Ledge Productions. The six-part series explores the intricacies of female friendship when confronted with the complexities of serious mental illness.
Starring in the show are Nicola Coughlan and Lydia West. Joining the ensemble cast are Niamh Cusack, Eamon Farren, Luke Fetherston, Kate Fleetwood, Rob Gilbert, Rebecca Lowman, Sally Phillips, Ukweli Roach, and Amalia Vitale. The cast also includes Olu Adaeze, Max Bennett, Skylar Betteridge, David Bedella, Tim Downie, Ron Donachie, Sarah Durham, Lara Grace Ilori, Neil Edmond, Amy Gledhill, Maddie Grace Jepson, Tom Rhys Harries, Layla-Belle Matthews, Simon Meacock, David Mumeni, David Newman, Freya Parker, Shuna Snow, Sid Sagar, Stephen Sobal, Lottie Tolhurst, Isobel Thom and Robin Weaver.
Joanna Page, best known for her roles in “Love Actually” and “Gavin and Stacey,” will make a guest appearance,...
- 4/26/2023
- by Naman Ramachandran
- Variety Film + TV
Speakers include BFI London Film Festival director Kristy Matheson, Film4’s Farhana Bhula and The British Blacklist’s Akua Gyamfi.
US producer Anthony Bregman, incoming BFI London Film Festival director Kristy Matheson and leading UK execs are among the speakers confirmed for the second edition of the Sundance Film Festival: London industry programme.
The Sundance Institute will once again be partnering with Picturehouse for this year’s event, which takes place at London’s Picturehouse Central from July 6-9.
Bregman will deliver the keynote talk. He premiered three features at the Sundance Film Festival in January: Flora And Son, Eileen and You Hurt My Feelings,...
US producer Anthony Bregman, incoming BFI London Film Festival director Kristy Matheson and leading UK execs are among the speakers confirmed for the second edition of the Sundance Film Festival: London industry programme.
The Sundance Institute will once again be partnering with Picturehouse for this year’s event, which takes place at London’s Picturehouse Central from July 6-9.
Bregman will deliver the keynote talk. He premiered three features at the Sundance Film Festival in January: Flora And Son, Eileen and You Hurt My Feelings,...
- 4/26/2023
- by Mona Tabbara
- ScreenDaily
Second feature from Stockholm-based filmmaker Emily Norling.
Croatian sales agent Split Screen has boarded world sales rights on documentary Megaheartz, the second feature from Swedish filmmaker Emily Norling.
Megaheartz will have its world premiere today (March 21) in the Next:Wave section at Cph:dox.
The hybrid documentary follows four women with intersecting stories about love and madness: one obsessing over a former lover; another holding on to a souvenir from her history; another bouncing in and out of rehab; and a fourth who has to revisit a house from her past.
Nording’s debut All We Own premiered at Goteborg Film Festival...
Croatian sales agent Split Screen has boarded world sales rights on documentary Megaheartz, the second feature from Swedish filmmaker Emily Norling.
Megaheartz will have its world premiere today (March 21) in the Next:Wave section at Cph:dox.
The hybrid documentary follows four women with intersecting stories about love and madness: one obsessing over a former lover; another holding on to a souvenir from her history; another bouncing in and out of rehab; and a fourth who has to revisit a house from her past.
Nording’s debut All We Own premiered at Goteborg Film Festival...
- 3/21/2023
- by Ben Dalton
- ScreenDaily
Bhula fills the role vacated by Ollie Madden, who became director of Film4.
Film4 has promoted Farhana Bhula to head of creative, filling the role vacated by Ollie Madden since his move to director of Film4.
Bhula moves up from senior commissioning executive. She joined Film4 in January last year from the BFI, where she had been a senior development and production executive at the Film Fund.
Bhula will continue to report to Madden, with senior commissioner David Kimbangi and head of development Ben Coren now reporting into Bhula.
In her new role, Bhula will have oversight of Film4’s creative team and creative strategy.
Film4 has promoted Farhana Bhula to head of creative, filling the role vacated by Ollie Madden since his move to director of Film4.
Bhula moves up from senior commissioning executive. She joined Film4 in January last year from the BFI, where she had been a senior development and production executive at the Film Fund.
Bhula will continue to report to Madden, with senior commissioner David Kimbangi and head of development Ben Coren now reporting into Bhula.
In her new role, Bhula will have oversight of Film4’s creative team and creative strategy.
- 3/20/2023
- by Ben Dalton
- ScreenDaily
Charades has secured a further raft of international deals, including to Italy, Japan and South Korea.
Kino Lorber has taken North American rights to Charlotte Regan’s diretorial debut Scrapper, one of a number of new sales confirmed on the Sundance World Cinema grand jury prize-winner that will open Sundance London this summer.
Sales agent Charades has also closed a raft of new deals on the father-daughter story, selling to Italy (Lucky Red), Scandinavia (Angel Films), Japan (King Records), South Korea (Green Narae), Adriatics (Megacom), Israel (Lev Cinema), Turkey (Mars), Taiwan (Filmware) and India (Pictureworks). Aardwolf has taken airlines rights.
Kino Lorber has taken North American rights to Charlotte Regan’s diretorial debut Scrapper, one of a number of new sales confirmed on the Sundance World Cinema grand jury prize-winner that will open Sundance London this summer.
Sales agent Charades has also closed a raft of new deals on the father-daughter story, selling to Italy (Lucky Red), Scandinavia (Angel Films), Japan (King Records), South Korea (Green Narae), Adriatics (Megacom), Israel (Lev Cinema), Turkey (Mars), Taiwan (Filmware) and India (Pictureworks). Aardwolf has taken airlines rights.
- 3/7/2023
- by Jeremy Kay
- ScreenDaily
Charades has secured a flurry of deals on Charlotte Regan’s British dramedy “Scrapper,” which won the Grand Jury Prize at Sundance.
Starring Harris Dickinson (“Triangle of Sadness”) as a downbeat dad, “Scrapper” has been sold to Spain (Caramel), Australia (Madman), Poland (Against Gravity), Baltics and Cis (Arthouse), Greece (Cinobo) and Airlines (Aardwolf). “Scrapper” has already sold to the U.K. (Pictures House). Charades is currently negotiating deals for Japan, Israel, USA, Scandinavia and South Korea.
The film follows Georgie, a dreamy 12-year-old girl who lives happily alone in her London flat, filling it with magic. Suddenly, her estranged father turns up and forces her to confront reality.
“Scrapper” bowed in the World Cinema Dramatic Competition at Sundance and earned unanimous critical praise with Variety’s Guy Lodge describing it as a “sweet, pastel-colored spin on British Realism. The movie is produced by Theo Barrowclough, and executive produced by Eva Yates,...
Starring Harris Dickinson (“Triangle of Sadness”) as a downbeat dad, “Scrapper” has been sold to Spain (Caramel), Australia (Madman), Poland (Against Gravity), Baltics and Cis (Arthouse), Greece (Cinobo) and Airlines (Aardwolf). “Scrapper” has already sold to the U.K. (Pictures House). Charades is currently negotiating deals for Japan, Israel, USA, Scandinavia and South Korea.
The film follows Georgie, a dreamy 12-year-old girl who lives happily alone in her London flat, filling it with magic. Suddenly, her estranged father turns up and forces her to confront reality.
“Scrapper” bowed in the World Cinema Dramatic Competition at Sundance and earned unanimous critical praise with Variety’s Guy Lodge describing it as a “sweet, pastel-colored spin on British Realism. The movie is produced by Theo Barrowclough, and executive produced by Eva Yates,...
- 2/16/2023
- by Elsa Keslassy
- Variety Film + TV
BFI has partnered with Film4 on Future Takes, a pilot fund seeking applications for ambitious and original short form work from emerging filmmaking talent from across the U.K.
The initiative will award up to £90,000 each to up to seven projects with funding by BFI National Lottery and Film4. It is positioned as a stepping stone between lower budget shorts and features or long form work and the aim is to help more filmmaking talent build sustainable careers.
Future Takes will be available to teams with a background in but not limited to filmmaking, theater, TV, video gaming, commercials, music videos, graphic novels, with a writer/director attached who has a demonstrably strong creative track record in their field. It will not fund directors making their first screen work. The fund will seek to back projects which demonstrate a clear career progression, for example with a more ambitious scale and...
The initiative will award up to £90,000 each to up to seven projects with funding by BFI National Lottery and Film4. It is positioned as a stepping stone between lower budget shorts and features or long form work and the aim is to help more filmmaking talent build sustainable careers.
Future Takes will be available to teams with a background in but not limited to filmmaking, theater, TV, video gaming, commercials, music videos, graphic novels, with a writer/director attached who has a demonstrably strong creative track record in their field. It will not fund directors making their first screen work. The fund will seek to back projects which demonstrate a clear career progression, for example with a more ambitious scale and...
- 12/15/2022
- by Naman Ramachandran
- Variety Film + TV
Up to £90,000 will be awarded per project
The British Film Institute (BFI) and Film4 are piloting a high-budget shorts programme called Future Takes that will see a maximum of seven projects awarded with up to £90,000 each.
Future Takes aims to create a stepping stone for emerging filmmakers between lower-budgeted shorts and feature films or longer-form work. Funding comes from BFI National Lottery and Film4.
The deadline for applications is February 13.
A statement from the BFI said the fund is hoping to help up-and-coming filmmakers at a time in which “it is becoming increasingly challenging to secure financing for debut features...
The British Film Institute (BFI) and Film4 are piloting a high-budget shorts programme called Future Takes that will see a maximum of seven projects awarded with up to £90,000 each.
Future Takes aims to create a stepping stone for emerging filmmakers between lower-budgeted shorts and feature films or longer-form work. Funding comes from BFI National Lottery and Film4.
The deadline for applications is February 13.
A statement from the BFI said the fund is hoping to help up-and-coming filmmakers at a time in which “it is becoming increasingly challenging to secure financing for debut features...
- 12/15/2022
- by Mona Tabbara
- ScreenDaily
Up to £90,000 will be awarded per project
The British Film Institute (BFI) and Film4 has partnered on a high-budget pilot shorts programme, Future Takes, which will see a maximum of seven projects awarded with up to £90,000 per short.
Future Takes aims to create a stepping stone for emerging filmmakers between lower-budgeted shorts and feature films or longer-form work. Funding comes from BFI National Lottery and Film4.
The deadline for applications is February 13.
A statement from the BFI said that the fund is hoping to help up-and-coming filmmakers at a time in which “it is becoming increasingly challenging to secure financing...
The British Film Institute (BFI) and Film4 has partnered on a high-budget pilot shorts programme, Future Takes, which will see a maximum of seven projects awarded with up to £90,000 per short.
Future Takes aims to create a stepping stone for emerging filmmakers between lower-budgeted shorts and feature films or longer-form work. Funding comes from BFI National Lottery and Film4.
The deadline for applications is February 13.
A statement from the BFI said that the fund is hoping to help up-and-coming filmmakers at a time in which “it is becoming increasingly challenging to secure financing...
- 12/15/2022
- by Mona Tabbara
- ScreenDaily
The film is described as a contemporary Romeo & Juliet story, set in London’s LGBTQ+ community.
Layla, the debut feature of 2018 Screen Star of Tomorrow Amrou Al-Kadhi, about the romance between a struggling British-Palestinian drag performer and a successful white gay man, wraps this week after a six-week shoot in east London.
The film is backed by Film4 and the BFI and is produced by UK producer Savannah James-Bayly of Fox Cub Films. WME Independent is handling North America and will oversee a potential global sale, with Luc Roeg’s Independent Entertainment on board as international sales agent handling individual territory sales.
Layla, the debut feature of 2018 Screen Star of Tomorrow Amrou Al-Kadhi, about the romance between a struggling British-Palestinian drag performer and a successful white gay man, wraps this week after a six-week shoot in east London.
The film is backed by Film4 and the BFI and is produced by UK producer Savannah James-Bayly of Fox Cub Films. WME Independent is handling North America and will oversee a potential global sale, with Luc Roeg’s Independent Entertainment on board as international sales agent handling individual territory sales.
- 12/1/2022
- by Ben Dalton
- ScreenDaily
Protagonist Pictures has closed a U.K. and Ireland distribution deal with BFI Distribution on the debut feature from Dionne Edwards, “Pretty Red Dress,” it was announced Tuesday by CEO Dave Bishop. Protagonist is handling worldwide sales on the critically lauded title and will continue sales at the ongoing American Film Market.
“Pretty Red Dress,” which world premiered at the BFI London Film Festival, will receive its market premiere at AFM screening for world buyers on Nov. 2 at 11 a.m. at the AMC Broadway.
The film stars Natey Jones, singer Alexandra Burke, and new talent Temilola Olatunbosun in the story of a south London family and how their lives revolve around one red dress.
The film is produced by Georgia Goggin for the U.K.’s Teng Teng Films, with the support of the BFI, which awarded National Lottery funding, and BBC Film, in association with Magellanic Media Limited and Great Point Media.
“Pretty Red Dress,” which world premiered at the BFI London Film Festival, will receive its market premiere at AFM screening for world buyers on Nov. 2 at 11 a.m. at the AMC Broadway.
The film stars Natey Jones, singer Alexandra Burke, and new talent Temilola Olatunbosun in the story of a south London family and how their lives revolve around one red dress.
The film is produced by Georgia Goggin for the U.K.’s Teng Teng Films, with the support of the BFI, which awarded National Lottery funding, and BBC Film, in association with Magellanic Media Limited and Great Point Media.
- 11/1/2022
- by Leo Barraclough
- Variety Film + TV
Exclusive: The Worst Person In The World and Portrait Of A Lady On Fire outfit MK2 has joined UK feature How To Have Sex, which is currently shooting in Greece.
Directed by emerging UK filmmaker Molly Manning Walker (pictured above right), How to Have Sex follows a group of teenage girls as they navigate early sexual encounters on a rite of passage clubbing holiday.
Cast includes Persuasion and Vampire Academy actress Mia McKenna-Bruce (pictured above left) and Lara Peake (Mood) alongside Shaun Thomas (Ali and Ava) and Sam Bottomley (Somewhere Boy), with newcomers Enva Lewis and Laura Ambler.
Film4 and the BFI developed the project and are financing the production, alongside Paris-based MK2 Films, which is handling international sales and will be teasing the project to buyers in coming months. Film4 retains TV and on-demand rights in the UK/Ireland.
Wild Swim Films’ Ivana MacKinnon and Emily Leo are producing alongside Heretic’s Konstantinos Kontrovrakis.
Directed by emerging UK filmmaker Molly Manning Walker (pictured above right), How to Have Sex follows a group of teenage girls as they navigate early sexual encounters on a rite of passage clubbing holiday.
Cast includes Persuasion and Vampire Academy actress Mia McKenna-Bruce (pictured above left) and Lara Peake (Mood) alongside Shaun Thomas (Ali and Ava) and Sam Bottomley (Somewhere Boy), with newcomers Enva Lewis and Laura Ambler.
Film4 and the BFI developed the project and are financing the production, alongside Paris-based MK2 Films, which is handling international sales and will be teasing the project to buyers in coming months. Film4 retains TV and on-demand rights in the UK/Ireland.
Wild Swim Films’ Ivana MacKinnon and Emily Leo are producing alongside Heretic’s Konstantinos Kontrovrakis.
- 10/21/2022
- by Andreas Wiseman
- Deadline Film + TV
Exclusive: Production is underway in the UK on feature Wicked Little Letters, which reunites Oscar winner Olivia Colman with her Oscar-nominated Lost Daughter co-star Jessie Buckley (Chernobyl).
Based on a true story, the comedy-drama will see the in-demand Brit and Irish actors play very different neighbours who come together to solve a mystery.
Joining the cast are Anjana Vasan (We Are Lady Parts), BAFTA nominee Timothy Spall (Mr Turner), BAFTA winner Joanna Scanlan (After Love), Hugh Skinner (Fleabag), BAFTA winner Malachi Kirby (Small Axe), Gemma Jones (Bridget Jones trilogy), Lolly Adefope (Ghosts), Eileen Atkins (The Crown), and Alisha Weir (Matilda!).
Thea Sharrock (Me Before You) is directing from a script by British actor and writer Jonny Sweet. French powerhouse Studiocanal developed the project, is fully financing with Film4, and is releasing in the UK, France, Germany, Australia, New Zealand and Benelux, as well as handling remaining sales.
Three Billboards Outside...
Based on a true story, the comedy-drama will see the in-demand Brit and Irish actors play very different neighbours who come together to solve a mystery.
Joining the cast are Anjana Vasan (We Are Lady Parts), BAFTA nominee Timothy Spall (Mr Turner), BAFTA winner Joanna Scanlan (After Love), Hugh Skinner (Fleabag), BAFTA winner Malachi Kirby (Small Axe), Gemma Jones (Bridget Jones trilogy), Lolly Adefope (Ghosts), Eileen Atkins (The Crown), and Alisha Weir (Matilda!).
Thea Sharrock (Me Before You) is directing from a script by British actor and writer Jonny Sweet. French powerhouse Studiocanal developed the project, is fully financing with Film4, and is releasing in the UK, France, Germany, Australia, New Zealand and Benelux, as well as handling remaining sales.
Three Billboards Outside...
- 9/29/2022
- by Andreas Wiseman
- Deadline Film + TV
Industry stalwarts including director Cheryl Dunye (“Bridgerton”), actor, writer, director Romola Garai, producer Elizabeth Karlsen (“Mothering Sunday”) and Sky Comedy commissioning editor Tilusha Ghelani have joined the illustrious roster of mentors at The Writers Lab U.K. & Ireland.
Now in its second year in the territory, the lab, which supports women and non-binary writers over 40, is set up to discover new writing voices from across Scotland, England, Ireland, Wales and Northern Ireland. The initiative is produced by Untamed Stories’ Julia Berg and Ruth Spencer and Twl co-founders Elizabeth Kaiden and Nitza Wilon.
It is presented with support from Dirty Films, the independent production company headed by Cate Blanchett, Andrew Upton, Coco Francini and Georgie Pym. The Writers Lab U.K. & Ireland is in association with Birds’ Eye View, Dancing Ledge Productions, Curzon Cm Development Fund, Maisie Williams’ production company Rapt, London-based film and TV agency Dench Arnold, Screen Scotland, Fís Éireann/Screen Ireland,...
Now in its second year in the territory, the lab, which supports women and non-binary writers over 40, is set up to discover new writing voices from across Scotland, England, Ireland, Wales and Northern Ireland. The initiative is produced by Untamed Stories’ Julia Berg and Ruth Spencer and Twl co-founders Elizabeth Kaiden and Nitza Wilon.
It is presented with support from Dirty Films, the independent production company headed by Cate Blanchett, Andrew Upton, Coco Francini and Georgie Pym. The Writers Lab U.K. & Ireland is in association with Birds’ Eye View, Dancing Ledge Productions, Curzon Cm Development Fund, Maisie Williams’ production company Rapt, London-based film and TV agency Dench Arnold, Screen Scotland, Fís Éireann/Screen Ireland,...
- 8/12/2022
- by Naman Ramachandran
- Variety Film + TV
Andrew Scott, Paul Mescal, Claire Foy and Jamie Bell have joined the cast of filmmaker ‘Andrew Haigh’s feature film ‘Strangers.’
The story follows screenwriter Adam (Scott) who, one night in his near-empty tower block in contemporary London, has a chance encounter with his mysterious neighbour Harry (Mescal) that punctures the rhythm of his everyday life. As Adam and Harry get closer, Adam is pulled back to his childhood home where he discovers that his long-dead parents (Foy and Bell) are both living and look the same age as the day they died over 30 years ago.
The ‘Lean on Pete’ filmmaker takes the helm on the picture which he also adapted from the award-winning novel by Taichi Yamada.
Also in news – Hugh Grant set for greek god role in Netflix series ‘Kaos’
Graham Broadbent and Pete Czernin are producing for Blueprint, along with Sarah Harvey. Blueprint’s Ben Knight and...
The story follows screenwriter Adam (Scott) who, one night in his near-empty tower block in contemporary London, has a chance encounter with his mysterious neighbour Harry (Mescal) that punctures the rhythm of his everyday life. As Adam and Harry get closer, Adam is pulled back to his childhood home where he discovers that his long-dead parents (Foy and Bell) are both living and look the same age as the day they died over 30 years ago.
The ‘Lean on Pete’ filmmaker takes the helm on the picture which he also adapted from the award-winning novel by Taichi Yamada.
Also in news – Hugh Grant set for greek god role in Netflix series ‘Kaos’
Graham Broadbent and Pete Czernin are producing for Blueprint, along with Sarah Harvey. Blueprint’s Ben Knight and...
- 7/1/2022
- by Zehra Phelan
- HeyUGuys.co.uk
Andrew Haigh, acclaimed filmmaker behind queer festival darling “Weekend” and A24’s “Lean on Pete,” has assembled four U.K. heavyweights for his next feature film.
“Fleabag” breakout star Andrew Scott, “Normal People” heartthrob Paul Mescal, “The Crown” O.G. Elizabeth II Claire Foy, and “Rocketman” actor Jamie Bell are all on deck for “Strangers” — which Haigh has adapted and will direct. Searchlight Pictures, Film4 and Blueprint Pictures are partnering on the project, loosely based on an award-winning novel by Taichi Yamada.
“Strangers” follows screenwriter Adam (Scott) who, one night in his near-empty tower block in contemporary London, has a chance encounter with his mysterious neighbor Harry (Mescal) that punctures the rhythm of his everyday life. As Adam and Harry get closer, Adam is pulled back to his childhood home where he discovers that his long-dead parents (Foy and Bell) are both living and look the same age as the...
“Fleabag” breakout star Andrew Scott, “Normal People” heartthrob Paul Mescal, “The Crown” O.G. Elizabeth II Claire Foy, and “Rocketman” actor Jamie Bell are all on deck for “Strangers” — which Haigh has adapted and will direct. Searchlight Pictures, Film4 and Blueprint Pictures are partnering on the project, loosely based on an award-winning novel by Taichi Yamada.
“Strangers” follows screenwriter Adam (Scott) who, one night in his near-empty tower block in contemporary London, has a chance encounter with his mysterious neighbor Harry (Mescal) that punctures the rhythm of his everyday life. As Adam and Harry get closer, Adam is pulled back to his childhood home where he discovers that his long-dead parents (Foy and Bell) are both living and look the same age as the...
- 6/30/2022
- by Matt Donnelly
- Variety Film + TV
Project is loosely based on the English translation of a Japanese novel by Taichi Yamada
Andrew Haigh is to direct Andrew Scott, Paul Mescal, Claire Foy and Jamie Bell in Strangers, with the UK’s Blueprint Pictures producing for Searchlight Pictures and Film4.
Production has already begun in the UK.
Haigh wrote the film’s script, loosely based on the 2003 novel of the same name by Japanese writer Taichi Yamada. The story follows a screenwriter (to be played by Scott) who, after an encounter with a mysterious neighbour, is pulled back to his childhood home where he discovers his long-dead...
Andrew Haigh is to direct Andrew Scott, Paul Mescal, Claire Foy and Jamie Bell in Strangers, with the UK’s Blueprint Pictures producing for Searchlight Pictures and Film4.
Production has already begun in the UK.
Haigh wrote the film’s script, loosely based on the 2003 novel of the same name by Japanese writer Taichi Yamada. The story follows a screenwriter (to be played by Scott) who, after an encounter with a mysterious neighbour, is pulled back to his childhood home where he discovers his long-dead...
- 6/30/2022
- by John Hazelton¬Mona Tabbara
- ScreenDaily
Short Film
Ahead of World Refugee Day on June 20, Unhcr, the Un Refugee Agency has released “Uprooted,” a powerful short film featuring and made by Ukrainian refugees now living in Germany. The film shows loud noises – a door slamming, the sirens of an ambulance, the bangs of a firework display – and how they can trigger terrifying memories of war. Some 50 refugees from Ukraine, including writers, choreographers, designers, casting producers, styling assistants, set dressing, make up, music and all the talent featured in the film, were involved in the project.
“Uprooted”, released Monday on Unhcr’s social media platforms, is being shown in select cinemas across the U.K. It was directed by Stink Films’ Andzej Gavriss who wrote the concept with Ukrainian choreographer, Konstantin Koval and Don’t Panic London’s creative partner, Rick Dodds. Production took place in Berlin, Germany.
Unhcr spokesperson, Joung-Ah Ghedini-Williams said: “The Ukrainian refugee cast...
Ahead of World Refugee Day on June 20, Unhcr, the Un Refugee Agency has released “Uprooted,” a powerful short film featuring and made by Ukrainian refugees now living in Germany. The film shows loud noises – a door slamming, the sirens of an ambulance, the bangs of a firework display – and how they can trigger terrifying memories of war. Some 50 refugees from Ukraine, including writers, choreographers, designers, casting producers, styling assistants, set dressing, make up, music and all the talent featured in the film, were involved in the project.
“Uprooted”, released Monday on Unhcr’s social media platforms, is being shown in select cinemas across the U.K. It was directed by Stink Films’ Andzej Gavriss who wrote the concept with Ukrainian choreographer, Konstantin Koval and Don’t Panic London’s creative partner, Rick Dodds. Production took place in Berlin, Germany.
Unhcr spokesperson, Joung-Ah Ghedini-Williams said: “The Ukrainian refugee cast...
- 6/13/2022
- by Naman Ramachandran
- Variety Film + TV
“I don’t want to do it the way it’s often done,” said Bays.
The BFI Film Fund is changing the way it assesses and responds to funding applications, according to Mia Bays, director of the Fund.
“We’re in the middle of changing it, somewhat democratising it,” said Bays, speaking on a panel at Sundance London film festival alongside fellow funding representatives Farhana Bhula from Film4, Jordan McGarry from Film London and Claudia Yusef from BBC Film.
“I don’t want to do it the way it’s often done,” said Bays. “I’ve described myself as a...
The BFI Film Fund is changing the way it assesses and responds to funding applications, according to Mia Bays, director of the Fund.
“We’re in the middle of changing it, somewhat democratising it,” said Bays, speaking on a panel at Sundance London film festival alongside fellow funding representatives Farhana Bhula from Film4, Jordan McGarry from Film London and Claudia Yusef from BBC Film.
“I don’t want to do it the way it’s often done,” said Bays. “I’ve described myself as a...
- 6/10/2022
- by Ben Dalton
- ScreenDaily
Exclusive: The Pursuit of Love‘s Emily Mortimer and Rocks co-writer Claire Wilson are among the guest mentors for The Writers Lab UK & Ireland’s second script development program for women and non-binary screenwriters aged over 40.
Film4 Senior Film Commissioning Executive Farhana Bhula and Top Boy producer Yvonne Isimeme Ibazebo have also been announced for the programming, with Curzon Cm Development Fund joining the Lab as it enters its second year.
Created by independent film distributors Curzon, Cinéart from the Benelux region and Australia’s Madman Entertainment, the £1.2M (1.5M) Cm Development Fund film development fund runs out of Curzon’s London office and is led by Head of Development Kristian Brodie. It focuses on director-led scripts.
Film and TV scripts will be eligible for the Lab, which will see up to 12 writers from across the UK and Ireland be selected for the six-month program, during which they’ll work...
Film4 Senior Film Commissioning Executive Farhana Bhula and Top Boy producer Yvonne Isimeme Ibazebo have also been announced for the programming, with Curzon Cm Development Fund joining the Lab as it enters its second year.
Created by independent film distributors Curzon, Cinéart from the Benelux region and Australia’s Madman Entertainment, the £1.2M (1.5M) Cm Development Fund film development fund runs out of Curzon’s London office and is led by Head of Development Kristian Brodie. It focuses on director-led scripts.
Film and TV scripts will be eligible for the Lab, which will see up to 12 writers from across the UK and Ireland be selected for the six-month program, during which they’ll work...
- 5/30/2022
- by Jesse Whittock
- Deadline Film + TV
IFC Films has acquired U.S. distribution rights from HanWay Films on Rebecca Lenkiewicz’s “Hot Milk,” starring Academy Award nominee Jessie Buckley, Fiona Shaw and Vicky Krieps.
Streaming service Mubi has also agreed a multi-territory deal for the film in the U.K., Ireland, Italy, Latin America and Turkey. Meanwhile, HanWay has also sold the pic into Metropolitan Films (France), The Searchers (Benelux), Scanbox (Scandinavia), M2 (Eastern Europe), A-One (Baltics), Front Row (Middle East) and Shaw (Singapore).
The film marks the directorial debut for acclaimed screenwriter Lenkiewicz, whose writing credits include Pawel Pawlikowski’s Oscar-winning “Ida,” Keira Knightley-led biopic “Colette” and the forthcoming Harvey Weinstein drama “She Said.”
“Hot Milk” is based on the bestselling novel by Deborah Levy and centers on the relationship between single mother Rose (Shaw) and her daughter Sofia (Buckley), who travel to southern Spain in order to see a medical consultant that might...
Streaming service Mubi has also agreed a multi-territory deal for the film in the U.K., Ireland, Italy, Latin America and Turkey. Meanwhile, HanWay has also sold the pic into Metropolitan Films (France), The Searchers (Benelux), Scanbox (Scandinavia), M2 (Eastern Europe), A-One (Baltics), Front Row (Middle East) and Shaw (Singapore).
The film marks the directorial debut for acclaimed screenwriter Lenkiewicz, whose writing credits include Pawel Pawlikowski’s Oscar-winning “Ida,” Keira Knightley-led biopic “Colette” and the forthcoming Harvey Weinstein drama “She Said.”
“Hot Milk” is based on the bestselling novel by Deborah Levy and centers on the relationship between single mother Rose (Shaw) and her daughter Sofia (Buckley), who travel to southern Spain in order to see a medical consultant that might...
- 5/18/2022
- by Manori Ravindran
- Variety Film + TV
Sundance Institute and Picturehouse have announced additions to the 2022 Sundance Film Festival: London programme today.
Alongside the twelve feature films, two short film strands and industry events previously announced, the festival will also present a new podcast strand with live audiences, including Girls on Film and Evolution of Horror; a 25th-anniversary screening of Love Jones, a special screening of Danny Boyle’s Shallow Grave; and a screening of Janicza Bravo’s Lemon chosen by keynote speaker, producer Christine Vachon.
The Festival will open up the spirit of Sundance Film Festival to UK audiences by screening three films at upwards of 25 cinemas across the country. A Love Song, Free Chol Soo Lee and Good Luck To You, Leo Grande will screen alongside recorded Filmmaker Q&As during the festival dates of 9 to 12 June 2022.
For the first time ever, the festival will include an exciting programme of live podcast recordings within the line-up.
Alongside the twelve feature films, two short film strands and industry events previously announced, the festival will also present a new podcast strand with live audiences, including Girls on Film and Evolution of Horror; a 25th-anniversary screening of Love Jones, a special screening of Danny Boyle’s Shallow Grave; and a screening of Janicza Bravo’s Lemon chosen by keynote speaker, producer Christine Vachon.
The Festival will open up the spirit of Sundance Film Festival to UK audiences by screening three films at upwards of 25 cinemas across the country. A Love Song, Free Chol Soo Lee and Good Luck To You, Leo Grande will screen alongside recorded Filmmaker Q&As during the festival dates of 9 to 12 June 2022.
For the first time ever, the festival will include an exciting programme of live podcast recordings within the line-up.
- 5/16/2022
- by Zehra Phelan
- HeyUGuys.co.uk
The debut feature from Screen’s 2020 Star of Tomorrow is produced by Dmc Film.
Paris-based Charades has boarded worldwide sales on UK director Charlotte Regan’s debut feature Scrapper, starring Harris Dickinson.
The comedy-drama with a magical realist twist is in post-production and tells the story of a dreamy 12-year-old girl, living happily alone in her London flat where the resident spiders make snarky comments until her estranged father turns up and forces her to confront reality.
Regan, a former Screen Star of Tomorrow, has written and directed the film which is produced by Theo Barrowclough for Dmc Film, with backing from the BFI,...
Paris-based Charades has boarded worldwide sales on UK director Charlotte Regan’s debut feature Scrapper, starring Harris Dickinson.
The comedy-drama with a magical realist twist is in post-production and tells the story of a dreamy 12-year-old girl, living happily alone in her London flat where the resident spiders make snarky comments until her estranged father turns up and forces her to confront reality.
Regan, a former Screen Star of Tomorrow, has written and directed the film which is produced by Theo Barrowclough for Dmc Film, with backing from the BFI,...
- 5/3/2022
- by Melissa Kasule
- ScreenDaily
US producer Christine Vachon has been confirmed as keynote speaker.
Sundance Film Festival: London, the UK offshoot of Sundance, is to host its first industry programme, running concurrently with the festival at Picturehouse Central from June 9-12.
Industry passholders will have exclusive access to talks, events, round-table meetings, keynote speeches, masterclasses, panel discussions and daily networking drinks. Passholders will also have access to three public screenings of their choice.
“Sundance Film Festival: London has had industry talks and events in the past, but it’s great to formalise it and make it a real strand that offers the industry more,...
Sundance Film Festival: London, the UK offshoot of Sundance, is to host its first industry programme, running concurrently with the festival at Picturehouse Central from June 9-12.
Industry passholders will have exclusive access to talks, events, round-table meetings, keynote speeches, masterclasses, panel discussions and daily networking drinks. Passholders will also have access to three public screenings of their choice.
“Sundance Film Festival: London has had industry talks and events in the past, but it’s great to formalise it and make it a real strand that offers the industry more,...
- 4/13/2022
- by Mona Tabbara
- ScreenDaily
Acquisition
BBC Three has acquired 10 x 45′ hit HBO Max reality dating competition show “FBoy Island” from Warner Bros International Television production. Created by Elan Gale and hosted by comedian Nikki Glaser, “FBoy Island” follows the adventures of Sarah, Nakia and C.J. – three women all looking to get into a serious relationship with men who really care about them. The good news is they have 24 guys to choose from, the bad news is only half of them are interested in forming a relationship, while the other half are self-confessed bad boys only there to win a cash prize.
Fiona Campbell, controller BBC Three, said: “This series completely flips the dating show concept on its head which makes it fun and captivating viewing. It has a lot of humor and heart and although it shouldn’t be taken too seriously, it does leaves enough room for real romance. It’s already...
BBC Three has acquired 10 x 45′ hit HBO Max reality dating competition show “FBoy Island” from Warner Bros International Television production. Created by Elan Gale and hosted by comedian Nikki Glaser, “FBoy Island” follows the adventures of Sarah, Nakia and C.J. – three women all looking to get into a serious relationship with men who really care about them. The good news is they have 24 guys to choose from, the bad news is only half of them are interested in forming a relationship, while the other half are self-confessed bad boys only there to win a cash prize.
Fiona Campbell, controller BBC Three, said: “This series completely flips the dating show concept on its head which makes it fun and captivating viewing. It has a lot of humor and heart and although it shouldn’t be taken too seriously, it does leaves enough room for real romance. It’s already...
- 4/7/2022
- by Naman Ramachandran
- Variety Film + TV
The BFI has named Louise Ortega as Senior Production and Development Executive for its Film Fund.
Ortega has had roles at companies including See-Saw Films, Vertigo Films and Slim Film and Television. At the BFI, she will work across both the development and production funds, accessing applications, recommending funding decisions and providing hands-on creative production support for filmmakers. Her portfolio will have a focus on debuts.
She will report to Natascha Wharton, the Fund’s Head of Editorial, and work alongside Senior Exec Kristin Irving, as well as Editor-at-Large Lizzie Francke and development executives Aoife Hayes and Phoebe Sutherland. The role replaces Farhana Bhula, who joined Film4 earlier this year.
Mia Bays, Director of the BFI Film Fund, said: “I am excited about Louise joining, bringing a wealth of experience and dynamism to round out the Film Fund team. She has a built up a real specialism around developing writers...
Ortega has had roles at companies including See-Saw Films, Vertigo Films and Slim Film and Television. At the BFI, she will work across both the development and production funds, accessing applications, recommending funding decisions and providing hands-on creative production support for filmmakers. Her portfolio will have a focus on debuts.
She will report to Natascha Wharton, the Fund’s Head of Editorial, and work alongside Senior Exec Kristin Irving, as well as Editor-at-Large Lizzie Francke and development executives Aoife Hayes and Phoebe Sutherland. The role replaces Farhana Bhula, who joined Film4 earlier this year.
Mia Bays, Director of the BFI Film Fund, said: “I am excited about Louise joining, bringing a wealth of experience and dynamism to round out the Film Fund team. She has a built up a real specialism around developing writers...
- 4/7/2022
- by Tom Grater
- Deadline Film + TV
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