Cinema launches support for young filmmakers
BBCA new initiative aimed at supporting young filmmakers has been launched.
The Tyneside Cinema's Talent Unit offers free access to professional facilities, mentoring and training in the hope of getting more young people from the north-east of England into the film and television industry.
Backed by the likes of Oscar-winning director Danny Boyle, the Newcastle cinema wants to help filmmakers who would otherwise not have the means to develop their skills
Nic Greenan, chief executive, said: "The talent [in the region] is palpable and the heritage that's come from here and those working class stories are just so crucial. We just really want to support that."
Launched on Thursday, North East industry professionals gathered at the cinema to mark the occasion.
Actor Stephen Tompkinson, originally from Stockton-on-Tees, said the North East has "got all the facilities, we've got the people here, we just need the backing and the momentum to carry on".
Ian Youngs/BBCKema Sikazwe, an actor from Newcastle who starred in Ken Loach's I, Daniel Blake, said opportunities like the Talent Unit are integral in giving people their start.
"Some people, all they need is an opportunity to show what they can do," he said.
"I was given that opportunity and I went on to do many other things because of that, but if no one gave me that opportunity to start with I don't know what I'd be doing now."
The programme has also been backed by Hairy Biker Si King and Oscar-winning screenwriter Peter Straughan, both from the North East.
Greenan said the financial side of filmmaking often leaves a lot of young people stuck when they leave education.
She said: "When you're in those institutions it's great, but the minute you're out the other side and you haven't got parents who can afford to buy you the camera and the kit and the equipment, where do you go and how do you continue to make?
"You'll be able to make here."
