Category: Production

Screen Alliance North launches industry wide working group to improve sustainability across productions in the North

Posted on 7 May 20257 May 2025 by Jo Macleod

Screen Alliance North, the northern screen industry skills cluster, (thanks to support from the BFI awarding National Lottery funding), is working closely with sustainability consultants Picture Zero to establish a new Sustainability Working Group.

Made up of members representing a cross section of industry professionals who are interested in improving sustainable practices, the north-wide peer group will be run by Picture Zero on behalf of Screen Alliance North and is sponsored by Sunbelt Rentals.

Representatives from ITV, BBC, Channel 4, 5, BFI and Heads of Department in the industry will implement sustainable working practices across production companies, freelance crew, new entrants and on all types of productions shooting in the North.

Penny Hall, Skills Cluster Lead at Screen Alliance North, said;

“We continue to work towards our aim of becoming a beacon of sustainable good practice and are establishing this group to allow us to communicate sustainability messages across the industry. Members of the group are at a senior level with significant experience of working on productions in the North. They will be sharing best practice, advocate for sustainable practices and aim to positively influence productions and crew.

The group will meet four times a year to workshop solutions, share resources and use their network to drive change ultimately feeding into a joined-up set of criteria for productions to adhere to when filming anywhere in the North.”

Eve Stollery, Picture Zero, added;

“Reducing the environmental impact of production and putting climate messaging on screen requires action right from the start. The earlier sustainability is considered, the bigger the difference the production can make. We hope through working closely with Screen Alliance North and members of the Sustainability Working Group we can find ways to affect change early in the production process, communicate best practice and share new sustainable ways of working.

We are delighted to be collaborating with Screen Alliance North and I look forward to meeting with members and working towards a greener and more sustainable northern screen industry.”

Jenny Clark, Partnerships and Development Manager at Sunbelt Rentals UK and Ireland, said;

“We are proud to support the Sustainability Working Group in their mission to create a more sustainable future for the screen industry. By partnering with innovators and leaders, we can drive meaningful change that reduces environmental impact and sets new standards for sustainability across the sector. Together, we’re committed to a greener, more responsible future for production, and we look forward to being part of this transformative journey.”

Screen Alliance North are looking for sponsors for various elements of the Sustainability Working Group – meetings, a suppliers list, newsletter and programme of activity. If this is something your company would be interested in, please contact eve@picturezero.com.

International tourism campaigns make North East the star of the show

Posted on 1 May 20251 May 2025 by Jo Macleod

North East England is set to benefit from an influx of international tourists thanks to a number of international marketing campaigns, as summer tourism season approaches.

Destination North East England is leading on multiple international marketing campaigns alongside partners including DFDS, Expedia Group, Newcastle International Airport and tourism body VisitBritain.

The campaigns, which represent hundreds of thousands of pounds of marketing investment are aligned with VisitBritain’s international #StarringGREATBritain programme which focusses on the ‘set jetting’ trend, encouraging tourists to explore famous filming locations and delve into the movies and TV shows filmed in the region.

Throughout the spring, the campaign activity has been showcasing the region around the world, contributing significantly to Destination North East England’s goal of doubling the value of the visitor economy over the next ten years.

The campaigns aim to showcase all corners of the region, from our breathtaking coastlines, tranquil countryside and our vibrant towns and cities to eager tourists – especially those who are keen to explore some of the region’s iconic film and TV locations, that have lit up the box office in recent years.

The region’s burgeoning screen industry continues to be a huge asset for the tourism sector, with TV shows like ITV’s Vera and blockbusters like premium horror, 28 Years Later (released 20th June 2025), showcasing some of our most iconic landscapes and locations to audiences around the world. As work continues on the landmark Crown Works Studios development on Wearside and more productions seek to point their cameras in the North East’s direction, tourism leaders hope this will inspire more visitors to walk in the footsteps of their favourite TV and film stars.

Chair of Destination North East England John Marshall said: “Telling the North East’s story around the world is key to our ambition to double the value of the visitor economy over the next ten years. By aligning with the Starring GREAT Britain programme to shine a light on our incredible screen sector and through the power of strong partnerships with Visit Britain, DFDS, Expedia and Newcastle International Airport, we look forward to welcoming more visitors to our special part of the world.”

Chief Executive of North East Screen, Alison Gwynn, said:

“The North East has some of the best filming locations in the world and a rich history of iconic films and TV shows that have attracted tourists to the region.”

“Production in the region is already up 89% in the past two years, and our ambition is to see the North East become one of the leading destinations for world class film and TV production in the next 10 years.”

“Aligning our ambition to brilliant initiatives curated by those rock star filming destinations like Alnwick Castle, Durham Cathedral and Cragside, will not only attract more global productions, but also introduce new audiences to some of the hidden gems the region has to offer.”

Pete Akerman, Marketing Director, DFDS said:

“We are excited to be part of this initiative to promote North East England as a premier international tourist destination and to showcase the region’s unique attractions in collaboration with NewcastleGateshead Initiative and VisitBritain. Our Amsterdam-Newcastle route is a vital link between mainland Europe and North East England, providing travellers with a convenient way to explore this beautiful region.”

“This initiative highlights the unique offerings of the North East and strengthens our commitment to enhancing the visitor experience for our northbound passengers. We look forward to welcoming travellers to explore the breathtaking coastlines, charming towns, and iconic film and TV locations that make the North East truly special.”

ITV commissions Torvill & Dean: The Last Dance by North-East based FilmNova

Posted on 1 May 20251 May 2025 by Jo Macleod

ITV has announced a one-off documentary Torvill & Dean: The Last Dance, made by Gateshead-based FilmNova.

The 60-minute programme will follow ice skating legends Jayne Torvill and Christopher Dean as they embark on their last ever tour, ‘Our Last Dance’.

The film explores Torvill and Dean’s career, looking back on their professional highlights, and follows the skating duo as they train and prepare to say goodbye to their fans and dance on ice together one last time.

From from their preparations and last ever television performance on Dancing on Ice; the early gruelling training sessions and first rehearsals for their farewell tour in Aberdeen; through to the iconic first performance of the live tour at Wembley Arena and throughout their shows across the UK – viewers will be with them every step of the way, gaining an intimate insight into what it’s been like to live life as the UK’s greatest ever ice skaters, their 50-year relationship and their desire to leave a lasting legacy.

Jayne Torvill & Christopher Dean said: “We’re delighted that our farewell tour will be the subject of an ITV documentary. The programme will be filled with poignant and joyful moments as we plan, rehearse and perform our final skating journey together – all caught on camera by a film crew following us over many months as we bid farewell to our 50 year ice skating partnership. It’s fitting that this documentary will be broadcast on ITV, our TV home for the last two decades. We hope fans will enjoy this final opportunity to see us skate together.”

FilmNova Executive Producer, Lucy Cutler said: “It is an honour for FilmNova to add to our growing Originals portfolio with this prestigious documentary for ITV and a privilege for us to film with two of British sports greatest ever Olympians as they embark on this extraordinary final tour. Jayne and Chris have allowed our cameras unprecedented behind-the-scenes access to capture every moment as they strive to recreate some of their most memorable routines, supported by an
ensemble cast of world class skaters. ‘Perfection’ is a word often attributed to their iconic performances, and with good reason, but this film will also illustrate the painstaking path necessary to remain the very best, 50 years after it all began. We are thrilled to be working alongside the talented team at Phil McIntyre Entertainments in order to bring to the screen a story for the ages.”

Commissioned by Katie Rawcliffe, Director of Entertainment & Daytime ITV, Katie said: “We are thrilled to be continuing our long working relationship with Torvill and Dean as they embark on their most iconic tour to celebrate their astonishing life, both on and off the ice, a treat for their fans and the ITV audience.”

Have your say on Hartlepool Screen Industries Production Village plans

Posted on 10 April 202510 April 2025 by Jo Macleod

Members of the public are being asked to help shape transformational plans for Hartlepool’s growing film and TV industry at a two-day event.

Work is being developed on multi-million pound projects to develop the town as a centre for film and TV production, including a significant expansion of the Northern Studios complex in Lynn Street.

The studio expansion will complement plans led by Hartlepool Borough Council to create a Production Village in the Lynn Street and Whitby Street area and build on the town’s burgeoning film-making pedigree.

Members of the public can find out more about the proposals at a consultation event in Hartlepool on Tuesday 15th April, at The Northern Studios, on Lynn Street, from 12noon until 7pm, and Wednesday 16th April from 12noon to 7pm, at the former H&M unit in Middleton Grange Shopping Centre.

It will be led by consultants Pegasus Planning and Leonard Design, who are working in partnership with Hartlepool Borough Council and Hartlepool Development Corporation, and project leaders will be on hand to explain the plans, answer questions and listen to views.

Hartlepool Borough Council Leader Councillor Brenda Harrison said:

“Creating jobs, driving investment in Hartlepool and delivering regeneration are all key aims of our council and this project delivers all three in an abundance. We are proud to be leading the way with this transformational project for Hartlepool.

“The film and TV industry has been one of Hartlepool’s fastest growing sectors in recent years and we are building on that success and creating more jobs for local people in a wide range of careers.

“We are excited for work to begin but before we get to that point, we are keen to engage with a range of stakeholders including members of the public to get views on the proposals so please do take up this opportunity to get involved and have your say.”

Tees Valley Mayor and Hartlepool Development Corporation Chairman Ben Houchen said:

“We are dedicated to developing Hartlepool as a powerhouse for TV and film production and have made excellent progress so far.

“However we want to go much further to deliver this significant investment, which will bring international productions to the town and create well-paid skilled jobs in Hartlepool.

“It’s vital that local people directly benefit from these projects – which is why we want their involvement in this process, to hear what is planned and help shape these developments.”

Funding for the Northern Studios expansion would be provided under a proposed £15million allocation from the Tees Valley Investment Zone. Tees Valley secured Investment Zone status in 2023, with a total of £160million allocated to drive the creative and digital sectors.

Hartlepool Borough Council’s is leading on the Production Village project, supported by £16.5million from the Levelling Up Fund.

Working with North East Screen, Northern Studios opened in 2022 supported by funding from the Tees Valley Mayor and the Tees Valley Combined Authority in partnership with Hartlepool Borough Council.

It is the only large-scale film and TV studio facility in the North East. Recent productions filmed at the studios include feature film Jackdaw alongside Sky true crime documentaries, ITV drama and comedy productions. It has also been used as a unit base for productions filming on location in Hartlepool.

BBC Comedy’s Smoggie Queens, ITV drama I Fought the Law, and ITV comedy Transaction were also created with the help of the facility.

Northern Studios is based next to the Northern School of Art which provides training and education courses for the creative industries.

North East Screen Chief Executive Alison Gwynn said:

“The North East has been the fastest growing region in the UK for the film and TV industry which has seen an increase in production by 89%.

“The development of the Northern Studios and Production Village in Hartlepool will see the town and surrounding areas become a real hotbed for world class film, digital and TV productions as well as suppliers to the wider creative industries businesses.

“It’ll also provide opportunities for local people who have previously had to leave the region to work in the industry.”

The Northern School of Art Principal, Dr Martin Raby, said:

“This is an important step in the development of The Northern Studios. The Studios have been operating successfully, which is testament to the initial backing from Hartlepool Borough Council and Tees Valley Combined Authority, but the requirements of the sector are progressing.

“The creation of the Production Village and the enhancement of the Studios, supported by the sterling efforts of North East Screen to attract productions, will facilitate much greater screen industry activity in Hartlepool, the Tees Valley and the wider North East, bringing further economic benefits to the town and the region. In addition, it will provide work experience opportunities for students and will boost employment prospects for our graduates.”

North East Screen hosts exclusive screening for new 5 drama by North East-based Lonesome Pine

Posted on 7 April 20257 April 2025 by Jo Macleod

Stars Jill Halfpenny and Larry Lamb joined 5 commissioner Paul Testar, writer Ash Ditta and North East Production crew for an exclusive screening of domestic drama The Feud at the Tyneside Cinema in Newcastle, ahead of its transmission on Monday 14^th April.

Filmed last year in and around Newcastle, the new 6-part series starring local actor Jill Halfpenny and Rupert Penry-Jones, was produced by Newcastle-based Lonesome Pine Productions and supported by the North East Production Fund.

The fund, administered by North East Screen on behalf of the North East Screen Industries Partnership is attracting more productions to film in the region bringing jobs and inward investment. £2.5 million has been invested so far into scripted projects. 5 is the first broadcaster in over 15 years to commission a North East based company for a drama filmed in the region.

Gayle Woodruffe, Operations Director at North East Screen, said;

“The Feud is one of 10 productions to shoot in the region with North East Production Fund investment so far. Each production hires regional crew, and actors, uses regional supply chain companies as well as providing training opportunities which helps to build regional infrastructure.

“Lonesome Pine is a great example of a regionally based production company bringing stories of global appeal to the screen. We were delighted to support the series and are looking forward to what comes next.”

As well as investment, the production received assistance from North East Screen’s Film Office to find crew, facilities and locations; the skills team to give trainees the opportunity to work on a scripted drama, and the business development team to support their growing business. North East Screen are continuing to build a vibrant and sustainable global screen sector in the region. The North East is the fastest growing region in the UK for screen industries.

Lesley Douglas, Executive Producer and Managing Director of Lonesome Pine said;

“Making The Feud in the North East is exactly why we moved Lonesome Pine here. The crew who worked on the show were exceptional and made the filming an absolute joy, come rain or shine. We received nothing but really positive feedback about the crew from all of our amazing cast – including of course Jill Halfpenny, someone else who made the decision to head back home!

“North East Screen has been holding our hand since we arrived here 3 years ago, and not only did they invest in the project at a critical point, but they also helped us access the region’s full potential. We are so proud of The Feud, and it is only through the support of 5, North East Screen and Banijay that we were given the opportunity to make it. We look forward to working further with North East Screen and playing our part in building the North East’s presence on and off screen.”

Paul Testar, Commissioning Editor, Scripted, 5, adds:

“Working with North East Screen has been a pleasure, and their support has been invaluable in bringing The Feud to life. The collaboration allowed us to tap into local talent and resources, providing access to the wealth of experience and knowledge in the North East that really brought the series together. We look forward to working with North East Screen again, and sharing this compelling drama with our audience on 5.”

Jill Halfpenny plays lead Emma Barnett in the series and was excited to be back in her home city to film.

“It was a joy to work in the North East again, being surrounded by local crew and knowing we could all go home to our families at night meant a lot and is something which I hope we can all do more of. Lonesome Pine were an absolute pleasure. Lesley and Ash made the job feel so collaborative. I loved every minute.”

The Feud begins Monday 14^th April, 9pm, on 5.

Channel 5 Greenlights 6-Part Drama ‘The Feud’, Starring Jill Halfpenny and Rupert Penry-Jones, from Lonesome Pine Productions

Posted on 22 May 202422 May 2024 by North East Screen

Channel 5 has announced a brand-new domestic thriller, The Feud (6×60’), starring Jill Halfpenny and Rupert Penry-Jones. Produced by Lonesome Pine Productions, in association with Banijay Rights and North East Screen.

The Feud introduces Emma and John Barnett, played by Jill Halfpenny (The Cuckoo, The Long Shadow, Everything I Know About Love) and Rupert Penry-Jones (Spooks, Our House, The Drowning), who, along with their teenage daughter Beth, played by newcomer Megan Trower, appear to live an idyllic life on Shelbury Drive. They’re close friends with their neighbours, Sonia and Alan, played by Amy Nuttall (Downton Abbey, Chemistry of Death, Mr Bates vs The Post Office) and Ray Fearon (Fleabag, Barbie, Harry Potter), and despite their foibles, are also fond of older couple, Derek and Barbara, played by James Fleet (Unforgotten, Bridgerton, Vicar of Dibley) and Tessa Peake-Jones (Grantchester, Only Fools and Horses, Unforgotten).

The close friendships in this seemingly peaceful street prove to be not quite as harmonious as they seem. When Emma and John decide to add a kitchen extension to their house, things quickly start to spin drastically out of control. As objections to the plans are raised, unexpected skeletons and life-threatening secrets begin to rise to the surface. Laced with menace, The Feud reveals how Emma’s aspirational dream turns sharply into obsession, paranoia, and fear. One decision sets in motion events that have unforeseeable consequences for both her and the people living on her street.

Further cast include Jamie-Lee O’Donnell (Derry Girls, Screw, Unwelcome) as scorned police officer PC Gallagher, Larry Lamb (The Inheritance, Gavin and Stacey, EastEnders) as Emma’s wheeler-dealer father Terry, Alex Macqueen (The Inbetweeners, The Thick of It, Hijack) as oddball neighbour Nick, and Chris Gascoyne (Coronation Street, New Street Law, Moving On) as intimidating builder Lee. Judith Alexander (The Crown, Coronation Street, Walk Like a Panther), Joel Beckett (The Office, EastEnders, Casualty), and newcomers Luke Hammond and Joel Kai Ali round off The Feud’s cast.

The Feud has been ordered for Channel 5 by Paul Testar, Commissioning Editor, Drama, Channel 5.

Written and created by Aschlin Ditta (The Inheritance, The Catherine Tate Show, Doc Martin), the series will be directed by Andy de Emmony (Vigil, Lucky Man, The Nest) with Lesley Douglas producing for Lonesome Pine Productions. Aschlin Ditta and Andy de Emmony will also executive produce the series, with Banijay Rights onboard for international distribution and funding by North East Screen Industries Partnership delivered by North East Screen.

On supporting The Feud via the North East Production Fund, Gayle Woodruffe, Operation Director, North East Screen, said: “Lonesome Pine Productions have already successfully delivered a must-watch drama for Channel 5 with 2023’s The Inheritance, and are a great example of a North East-based production company bringing stories of global appeal to the screen. The Feud is a fascinating story with an exceptionally strong cast which will bring more opportunities for talented local crew and wrap around supply chain businesses to contribute to making content for global audiences without having to leave the region.”

On filming The Feud, Jill Halfpenny comments: “The spiral that we see Emma’s world take in The Feud, from one seemingly innocent situation to life altering revelations, is something I can’t wait to dive into! Getting to work in the Northeast with the teams at Channel 5 and Lonesome Pine, along with the rest of this brilliant cast, is a joy.”

On adding the series to Channel 5’s critically acclaimed drama slate, Paul Testar says: “Neighbourly disputes happen every day. The Feud takes that premise and runs with it to its extreme limit. What starts as an innocuous renovation triggers an extraordinary sequence of events. We’re excited to work with the wonderful team at Lonesome Pine again to bring this great story and stellar cast to the Channel 5 audience.”

Does Emma know the people around her as well as she thinks? Who is hiding behind facades, who is manipulating events, and who is simply exactly who they appear to be? A drama full of paranoia, The Feud has started filming in Newcastle and is set to air on Channel 5 in 2025.

North East Screen joins calls of support for the CrownWorks Studio plan

Posted on 15 February 20245 March 2024 by North East Screen

North East Screen, the regional screen agency for North East England, are fully supportive of the scale and ambition of the development of CrownWorks Studios, which would be a crucial game-changer for the region’s rapidly growing screen industry.

Alison Gwynn, Chief Executive of North East Screen, believes in making brave and ambitious decisions and plans for the region, with the studio development clearly being an ambitious plan.

On North East Screen support for the studio plan, Alison said: “Through the work delivered by North East Screen and the North East Screen Industries Partnership (NESIP) we are already delivering real results to grow the screen industry across the North East. Capital investment however, in a large studio would supercharge the region’s capacity to deliver a much broader range of international production across the whole year. We know we have the talent, skills, locations, and experience, building on the impact of activity that has already been developed and delivered across the region in the last two years. Now we need the infrastructure to make the industry more sustainable and create long-term jobs and opportunities.

“Since NESIP backed North East Screen to deliver a strategic five-year development project in 2020, production has risen 28% in the last year (bucking the national trend), and for every £1 invested by NESIP, up to £8 is being spent in the region creating well paid creative jobs. We will likely see these figures continue to rise across 2024 and 2025.

“The North East is very much open for, and delivering business. It is vital for the region to maintain this momentum in a very fast-moving sector. FulwelCain’s plans for CrownWorks Studios presents a phenomenal opportunity to capitalise on, and bring real change to the North East’s infrastructure, helping the region become one of the leading film and TV production hubs not only here in the UK, but globally.”

Newspapers and news websites from around the North East have also come together to call on the Government to provide financial support for the CrownWorks Studios plan.

A joint statement from regional editors Ross Robertson, Ian Arkle, Graeme Whitfield, Helen Dalby, Sophie Barley and Gavin Foster said: “The CrownWorks Studios plan has the potential to be transformational for Sunderland and the wider North East. It could be the catalyst for growth in the North East creative industries in the same way that the Nissan plant was for the car industry 40 years ago.

“FulwellCain have developed a plan that has the backing of the whole region, as well as key players in the film and TV world.

“We felt it was only right that the regional media unite our voices to demonstrate the depth of that support in every corner of the North East. Politicians of all parties have supported the plans but now is the time for the Government to provide the financial support to back up those warm words.

“The CrownWorks plan is levelling up in action and an opportunity that cannot be squandered.”

Teesside to Stateside – Airport doubles as NYC in new romantic comedy feature film

Posted on 6 February 20245 March 2024 by North East Screen

A romantic comedy which sees Teesside International Airport stand in for New York International Airport will hit screens on Friday (February 9).

Upgraded is the latest movie to be filmed in Tees Valley and comes to Prime Video this week.

Secret shooting took place at the airport in August 2022, and saw Teesside transformed into “New York International Airport”.

Upgraded sees Camila Mendes star as Ana – an ambitious intern dreaming of a career in the art world while trying to impress her demanding boss Claire (Marisa Tomei).

When she’s upgraded to first class on a work trip, she meets handsome Will (Archie Renaux), who mistakes Ana for her boss – a white lie that sets off a glamorous chain of events, romance and opportunity, until her fib threatens to surface.

The Amazon Original movie is directed by Carlson Young. Lead Camila Mendes and Spider-man: Homecoming actress Marisa Tomei were among the cast who filmed at Teesside Airport.

Filming took place in just a day and saw the airport terminal signs and luggage trolleys changed to black and yellow “New York International Airport” while famous yellow New York taxis pulled up outside the entrance.

Check-in desks and digital displays were also converted to the fictional “Sovereign Air” airline which appears in the movie.

The shooting followed weeks of negotiations between the film’s production team and Teesside Airport staff to ensure filming went off without a hitch while the airport continued to fully operate.

Teesside International Airport Managing Director Phil Forster said: “We were delighted to welcome the cast and crew of Upgraded to Teesside Airport and it’s fantastic to see our airport in the finished film.

“We know our airport is a great location for our passengers and the fact that we can stand in as New York in a major Hollywood film shows how far we have come in transforming our terminal building into a modern and vibrant place from which even the stars want to travel.”

Tees Valley Mayor Ben Houchen said: “We know we have superb locations for filming across Teesside, Hartlepool and Darlington and it’s great that Teesside Airport is now also firmly on that list.

“Our airport was once a crumbling, failing business but in just the past year we have enjoyed the best passenger numbers in more than a decade, been named UK and Ireland Airport of the Year and are now starring in major movies.”

Upgraded is the latest feature film shot in the Tees Valley and comes as major drive to grow the thriving local film and TV industry continues.

Filming was supported by the North East England screen agency North East Screen.

North East Screen Operations Director Gayle Woodruffe said: The North East is home to a diverse array of world-class locations, all of which have their own unique versatility which can be easily adapted to the needs of the production filming.

“Seeing Teesside Airport transform into New York International Airport shows this at its best, and it is a real asset in our North East locations portfolio.”

North East film and TV production increased 28% in 2023, and Upgraded is the fourth time in 2024 that Tees Valley locations have appeared on screen, following feature film JACKDAW and ITV dramas, After the Flood and Vera, with further in the pipeline for the rest of the year.

Upgraded is available to watch on Prime Video in more than 240 countries and territories worldwide from Friday, 9 February. The trailer is available here.

For filming opportunities at Teesside International Airport contact enquiries@teessideinternational.com.

Three North East Indies win their first BBC daytime TV commission

Posted on 19 January 20245 March 2024 by North East Screen

Three North East Indies are entering 2024 with a bang having won their first BBC daytime commission that will see them create inserts for BBC’s popular daytime show, Morning Live.

Wander Films (Middlesbrough), Sea & Sky Pictures (Hartlepool), and Second Draft (Sunderland), were all successful with their pitch ideas and will now have their northern stories shown to a national audience. All three indies have been working closely with North East Screen over the last four years through a range of programmes and activities to support them becoming reputable broadcast-winning companies.

North East Screen’s Development Director, Lisa Laws, believes this is just the beginning of the broadcast journey for these indies. She said,

“It’s great to see the hard work of Wander, Sea & Sky and Second Draft paying dividends at last given the challenging commissioning climate we are in. So this is a real win not only for them, but for the North East.

“This shows that our North East-based indies have built strong relationships with commissioners to really understand what audiences want and expect from a show like Morning Live.

“This first step into broadcast is crucial for company growth, and I can’t wait to see what they deliver! Exciting times ahead!”

The commission opportunity has been led by BBC Daytime and Early Peak Commissioning Editor, Helen Munson, who is based in the North East. She said,

“This is a really exciting opportunity to build on and develop key relationships with indies based in the North East. I know there is such a wealth of talent here and I’m really looking forward to working with them more.”

Chloe Clover, Co Founder and CEO of Wander Films said,

“We presented five topical stories with positive messages. It was crucial that the ideas were unique yet in line with the Morning Live house style. We’re buzzing that the commissioners loved our angles, and we are now in production for TV!”

Lou Brannon, Development Co-Ordinator at Sea & Sky Pictures said,

“We’re over the moon to have been chosen for this opportunity to contribute to Morning Live on BBC One. We’d like to thank North East Screen and the BBC for allowing us to build on our previous successes with The BBC’s Small Indie Fund 2023 and North East Voices initiatives.

“Our films will cover varied topics such as ways to combat loneliness and litter picking, and will give advice, inspiration and hopefully start conversations across the nation.”

Mark Stuart Bell, Producer/Director at Second Draft said,

“We’re thrilled to have the opportunity to work alongside the BBC’s flagship morning programme. We have a real affection for the warmth and optimism that Morning Live creates, and we hope that our film brings attention to the concerning issue of malnutrition in the UK, but also leaves the audience feeling inspired by the story of one ordinary woman’s mission to solve this crisis.”

Morning Live is BBC One’s flagship daytime magazine show broadcast live from their Manchester-based studio, averaging over 1.2 million viewers. Since the new year, the show has been extended to 75 minutes from 45 minutes and strengthened its pool of on-screen presenters to include Cumbrian Helen Skelton.

Shudder Films set up North East base prior to premiering latest feature at Sundance Film Festival

Posted on 18 January 20245 March 2024 by North East Screen

Newcastle-based Shudder Films, are set to light up the international film market as they premiere their latest feature film at the internationally renowned Sundance Film Festival, which begins 18th January.

Regional screen agency, North East Screen, have supported Shudder Films through their Reach programme to employ a development producer who will scout for talent and drive their activity in the North East, with the team also heading stateside to Sundance Film Festival, a key launch pad for some of the world’s best breakthrough feature films.

KNEECAP, which shot in Ireland last year, is the story of the hip and naughty Irish language rap group, Kneecap. The film features the rap trio in lead roles, with Simone Kirby (His Dark Materials, Hidden Assets, Peaky Blinders, Jimmy’s Hall) and Michael Fassbender (X-Men: First Class, Inglorious Basterds, Shame, Steve Jobs) co-staring.

Shudder Films is an acclaimed independent film company, led by BAFTA-nominated and BIFA winning producer Jack Tarling, that has had previous success with critically acclaimed films such as Gods Own Country.

Jack has a long-term affinity with the North East, having studied at Northumbria University and regularly speaks at regional NFTS and broadcast events. He said,

“We’re excited to be working with Dermot O’Dempsey as our first point of contact for North East talent and stories. I lived in Newcastle for 12 years and look forward to further strengthening our links and bringing new productions to the region and doing more work with local talent.”

Lisa Laws, North East Screen’s Development Director said,

“It’s great to be able to support an award-winning company like Shudder Films to strengthen their base in the North East. They have an outstanding track record at major international festivals.

“We’re looking forward to seeing how Jack and his team bring their ambitious energy to the North East, providing another home for our local talent to develop creative and ground-breaking content.”

North East Screen supported Shudder Films to both strengthen their marketing and distribution strategy, and create a new development post through the Reach programme. Reach is aimed at commercially and critically acclaimed companies (both production and supply chain) wishing to develop and diversify their products and services in order to win investment and create jobs within the region. So far, almost £120,000 has been invested in regional companies, with the latest round of funding currently accepting applications. To find out how you and your business can be supported in the North East screen industry, contact the Business Development team: talent@northeastscreen.org.