The Isle of Wight is set to shine at FOCUS 24, the premier international trade event for the film, TV, advertising, and gaming industries, taking place 10th-12th December 2024 at the Business Design Centre in London.
This marks the third consecutive year that FilmWight will attend, but the first with a full trade stand, showcasing the Island’s diverse filming locations and its growing appeal as a production hub.
Supported by the Isle of Wight council, Creative Island, Wightlink, and Visit Isle of Wight, FilmWight’s presence at the event underscores the Island’s commitment to becoming a prime destination for screen productions.
Russell: Thrilled to promote this film-friendly landscape
FilmWight’s Film Officer, Dave Russell, highlighted the Island’s unique offering,
“The Isle of Wight boasts coast-to-coast diversity in a compact, accessible area—perfect for TV and film productions.
“We’re thrilled to promote this film-friendly landscape alongside Directors Linda Sullivan and Stephen Izatt with Councillor Julie Jone-Evans representing the IW Council who are fully behind our mission.”
Medina Studios
Momentum is building for the Island’s screen industry, with the recent planning approval for Medina Studios in East Cowes, which will become the Isle of Wight’s first screen-based media hub.
This development is set to generate approximately 400 new jobs in the film and TV sector, further enhancing the Island’s growing reputation.
Baxter: The Isle of Wight is a dream destination for productions
Also representing the Island at FOCUS 24, is Blackgang Chine, the UK’s oldest amusement park and a long-standing location for both tourists and filmmakers.
Laura Baxter, Head of Marketing at Blackgang Chine, shared her enthusiasm,
“With its unique landscapes, locations like Blackgang Chine, and the upcoming studio facilities in East Cowes, the Isle of Wight is a dream destination for productions.
“The convenience of having so many desirable locations within a 30-minute radius makes filming on the Island both versatile and cost-effective.”
Familiarisation visits for location managers
In addition, FilmWight will be hosting familiarisation visits for location managers, providing them with a first-hand experience of the Island’s film-friendly environment.
As the Isle of Wight continues to make waves at FOCUS 24, its goal is clear: to position itself as a top-tier filming destination with diverse locations, new production facilities, and an efficient, collaborative approach to the global screen industry.
News shared by Dave on behalf of FilmWight. Ed
