Film Agency News
7th January 2009
£1.7 Million Investment in Welsh Filmmakers
The Film Agency for Wales has released statutory accounts showing an investment of more than £1.7 million in Welsh filmmakers in 2007/08.
During their second year of operation, the Film Agency for Wales co-financed18 new development projects and the production of seven feature films across Wales. This included three projects previously in receipt of Arts Council of Wales or Film Agency development funding (I Know You Know, Abraham's Point and Nocturne) succeeding in being awarded production funding from the Film Agency.
Furthermore, two of the three productions inherited from the Arts Council of Wales completed production, with debut feature writer-director, David Evan's film, Daddy's Girl, starring Jamie Winstone and produced by Cardiff based, Boda being picked up for UK distribution by Contender with international sales being represented by Carnaby. Julian Richard's Summer Scars also scored well with the festival circuit including Edinburgh, Austin Fantastic (USA), Ravina nightmare (Italy) and the Hollywood film festival (USA).
Support was also offered to seven film exhibition venues across Wales and core funding provided for the British Board of Film Societies (Wales), who in turn support 17 film societies in Wales, with a total of £98,500 being awarded to support an increased number and range of specialist film for audiences across Wales while 24 film education projects were awarded a total of £81,727.
Commenting on the investment, Peter Edwards, Chairman of the Film Agency for Wales said: "£1.7 million was an unusually high figure due to the period being our first full year of operation, but it shows what can be done with increased finance levels – we're delighted that we were able to Film crosses the commercial and cultural boundaries. As an art-form it has passed its centenary and in the 21st century it is establishing itself as a multi-billion pound 'driver' of businesses as diverse as design, fashion, games and entertainment. Indeed, it is a crucial 'driver' of attitudes, values and ideas."
"Across development, production, education and exhibition, we are particularly proud of the rich talent base in Wales – we are delighted to be making a difference to film in Wales."
Download the Annual Review 2007 / 2008.
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