This in from Sue on behalf of Visit Isle of Wight. Ed
Earlier this month, Visit Isle of Wight took soundings from one of the South’s premier film-making events to get a better understanding of what production companies are looking for in a location, in a bid to attracting new filmmakers to the Island.
Film Expo brings together a range of key decision makers and great contacts including directors, producers, future filmmakers, writers, make-up artists, production companies and more. It also allows exhibitors to forge valuable new relationships, identify potential collaborators and to hear about new sector opportunities
Screen tourism a growing phenomenon
A one-stop shop for all things to do with movies, the event was held at the Ageas Bowl in Southampton on 4th February. More than 40 Hollywood speakers were booked to appear, including John Glen, who has directed five James Bond movies and editor on three others in the hit franchise.
Screen tourism is seen as a growing phenomenon with more and more locations across the UK benefitting from a booming screen industry. From period drama to dark, contemporary stories, family fare to fantasy and sci-fi, screen exposure can help drive tourists to UK regions.
Visit IW Film TV Services Network
Visit Isle of Wight believes that the Island is well placed to encourage all kinds of film production and has partnered with English Heritage and Wight Media Services to set up a new venture – the Visit Isle of Wight Film TV Services Network – to smooth the way for film and television companies by offering a pool of expertise and resources – from locations advice and facilities hire to sourcing accommodation and theatrical services.
David Thornton, CEO, Visit Isle of Wight, said:
“From themed visitor experiences and activities to accommodation both for visitors attracted through screen tourism and for crews filming on location, there a number of ways that tourism businesses can capitalise on television and film production.
“Whether it be a fashion ad looking for a retro-style backdrop, a TV drama searching for country house interiors or even a Hollywood blockbuster looking for the drama of a ‘Jurassic’ forest, the new Visit Isle of Wight Film TV Services Network is keen to see the Island’s scene-stealing scenery cast in a leading role – and in doing so, generate a broad range of economic benefits for the local Island economy.”
Get in touch
The Visit Isle of Wight Film TV Services Network is now looking for expressions of interest from Island businesses.
Those wishing to get involved in any upcoming projects should e-mail (one) high-res image and a description of the property to [email protected]
A new Isle of Wight guide, which includes a movie map of the Island will be produced to lure more movie-makers, TV and commercial production teams to the Island. A dedicated webpage “Filming on the Isle of Wight” is also available on the VIOW Website.
