28/02/2007

Film London, the UK capital’s film and media agency, has announced the creation of London’s first ever Production Finance Market, which will run from October 22-23, 2007, in association with the Times BFI 51st London Film Festival. The mini-market will be held at a central London venue and intends to bring together producers, financiers and new forms of investment and funds.

Over 100 film producers and financiers from the UK, Europe and the rest of the world will be invited to attend, selected through a call for entries this spring. Financiers will be drawn from across the sector, from private equity and hedge fund managers to banks, tax funds and financiers specialising in the industry.

Some 15 pre-selected UK projects will also be able to participate. A minimum 30% of producers’ financing has to be in place on the projects submitted. There will be no language, budget or country restrictions, although priority will be given to territories with official co-production treaties with the UK.

Adrian Wootton, CEO of Film London, said: “At a time when new forms of financing and significant structural and technological changes are taking place in the UK film industry, the need for such a market is particularly evident. Running in association with The Times BFI London Film Festival provides a perfectly complimentary framework to the market and adds a further incentive for participants to attend.”

Sandra Hebron, artistic director of LFF, also said: “This exciting and timely initiative from Film London promises to provide significant new opportunities for producers from across the UK. As a festival committed to nurturing and showcasing UK talent, we are proud to be associated with the market.”

This new Production Finance Market held in conjunction with the LFF will reinforce the position of the London event, set to take place this year from October 17-November 1, at the same time as the RomeFilmFest (October 18-27).