Tag: cinema

Scotland’s Sean Connery Talent Lab announces first participants

NEW COLLABORATION WITH PRIME VIDEO

The National Film and Television School (NFTS) and the Sean Connery Foundation are delighted to announce the first intake of 26 emerging filmmakers who will join the prestigious Sean Connery Talent Lab, set to begin later this month in Leith.

In an exciting development, the Talent Lab is also proud to welcome Prime Video as its newest collaborator. 

Prime Video’s contribution will form part of Prime Video Pathway, the multifaceted training initiative set up by the streamer to open up access to jobs in the TV and film industry across the UK. This marks the expansion of a successful collaboration between Prime Video and the NFTS, running alongside other positive initiatives delivered by the two organisations, such as the Prime Video Craft Academy.

With the Sean Connery Talent Lab, Prime Video will join a wide range of industry organisations, trusts and foundations dedicated to working with the NFTS to foster the next generation of creative talent.

Under the seasoned leadership of renowned Scottish film producer Chris Young, the Sean Connery Talent Lab, named in honour of the legendary Scottish actor and supported by the Sean Connery Foundation, will embark on its mission to discover and nurture a new wave of filmmaking luminaries.

Chris Young, whose legacy includes founding the award-winning Young Films, brings invaluable experience and vision to the Talent Lab, with a career spanning critically acclaimed and award-winning film and television productions including The Inbetweeners. 

Following an extensive search for the most promising ‘on the rise’ creative talent across Scotland and the UK, the final 26 participants were selected from hundreds of applicants, with each showcasing a diverse range of skills across writing, directing, producing, cinematography and editing disciplines.

Introducing the Sean Connery Talent Lab Participants:

WRITERS / DIRECTORS

  1. Alex Salam
  2. Cat MacLeod & Lana Phuetan
  3. Josefa Celestin
  4. Mairead Hamilton
  5. Miranda Stern
  6. Ryan Pollock

“To get the chance to bring my short film to life with the support of the Sean Connery Talent Lab is mind-bogglingly thrilling. I hope to come away from the experience a stronger storyteller with a few more industry connections and to have found like-minded creatives with whom I will continue to collaborate long into the future.” – Writer/Director Mairead Hamilton

PRODUCERS

  1. Carys Evans
  2. Isabella Bassett
  3. Katie Mallinder
  4. Katriona Tweedie
  5. Kitty McMurdo-Schad
  6. Saffia Sage
  7. Steven Jeram

“It feels like a full circle moment to have such an icon of Scottish history – Sir Sean Connery – leaving a legacy that I am now a part of. I can’t wait to see how this bolsters Scottish talent and look forward to working with the rest of the cohort on what will undoubtedly be a strong selection of films!” – Producer Kitty McMurdo-Schad

CINEMATOGRAPHERS

  1. Alyson Thompson
  2. Fiann McLeod
  3. Iona Ward
  4. Matt Mead
  5. Simon Williamson
  6. Vasileios Kapnis

“I believe the Sean Connery Talent Lab will accelerate my career as a cinematographer. The opportunity to train on state-of-the-art equipment, collaborate with other up-and-coming filmmakers, and shoot a short film in gorgeous Scotland will be the catalyst I need to propel myself to a more professional level. This experience will mark a major turning point for me.” – Cinematographer Alyson Thompson

EDITORS

  1. CJ Lazaretti
  2. Fraser Ballantyne
  3. Jonathan Ley
  4. Lu Kemp
  5. Roddy McDonald
  6. Sam J Thomson

“I am thrilled to be part of a new cohort, and to collaborate with my colleagues to produce an ambitious body of new work which I hope will magnify the energy and force of Scottish film talent.” – Editor Lu Kemp

The Sean Connery Talent Lab offers a rich curriculum, designed to challenge and inspire these emerging filmmakers. Through hands-on training, mentorship by industry professionals, and collaborative projects, participants will develop their skills, culminating in the creation of six short films, working to a budget of £25,000 per project. 

With the support of Prime Video and inaugural supporters BBC Film, the Dana and Albert Broccoli Foundation, FirstStage Studios, Blazing Griffin, DNA Films, Hartswood Films, Juniper Trust, LS Productions, the Rank Foundation and Synchronicity Films, the projects are set to serve as significant calling cards for the participants, showcasing their talents at film festivals and industry events worldwide.

The Sean Connery Talent Lab is noteworthy for its accessibility, with the Sean Connery Foundation generously underwriting 70% of the fees for each participant. This initiative highlights the commitment of the NFTS and its umbrella of partners, supporters and collaborators to making world leading training accessible to a broad array of aspiring filmmakers.

Jon Wardle, Director of the NFTS commented: “We are thrilled to welcome Prime Video to the Sean Connery Talent Lab.

“Under the leadership of Chris Young, the Lab embodies our shared commitment to nurturing emerging talent across the UK. We are excited to explore the innovative perspectives and contributions these filmmakers will make to the industry, both within Scotland and on the international stage.”

Chris Young, Head of the Sean Connery Talent Lab shared his enthusiasm, saying: “The addition of Prime Video as our newest collaborator highlights the broad industry support for the Sean Connery Talent Lab.

“Their involvement, along with our other partners and supporters, underscores a collective commitment to fostering a new generation of filmmakers. I am beyond excited to embark on this journey with our newly selected participants.

“Together, we’re not just kicking off a new programme; we’re launching careers and redefining what’s possible for filmmakers across Scotland and the UK.”

Stephane Connery, Chair of the Sean Connery Foundation said: “We are so pleased that Prime Video has joined the extraordinary cohort of committed organisations supporting the Sean Connery Talent Lab and we congratulate the first cohort of students on their admission.

“In establishing the Lab, we hope not only to honour Sir Sean’s Scottish roots, but also to expand the opportunities for employment, both above and below the line, by strengthening Scotland’s reputation as a pivotal destination for film and TV production.”

Jason Connery, Ambassador for the Sean Connery Foundation added: “Scotland’s rich heritage, versatile landscapes and dynamic talent have long contributed to its cinematic success, paving the way for ground-breaking storytelling. 

“We are so looking forward to getting to know this talented cohort of filmmakers and are excited to see the stories they create over the course of the next year, inspired by their world-class instructors, their surroundings, and each other.”

For more information, go to: nfts.co.uk/sean-connery-talent-lab 

Fun family favourites leap into action on the big screen this Easter at Vue

A host of brand-new animated adventures and all-time family favourites are landing at Vue this Easter, meaning there are plenty of opportunities to spend quality family time at the big screen during the school holidays.  

For the first time in almost a decade, the world’s most unlikely kung fu master Po bounces back onto this big screen with a hilarious new chapter, in Kung Fu Panda 4 on 28 March.  

Facing his most fearsome foe yet in the many forms of the powerful sorceress The Chameleon, Po (voiced by the iconic Jack Black) must use his courageous Dragon Warrior martial arts skills to defend the Valley of Peace. However, he’s not alone, as he must team up with the crafty fox thief Zhen (voiced by Awkwafina) in this butt-kicking mission to ensure the world remains peaceful and at balance.  

This Easter break will also see some familiar heroes take up the call when Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire brings paranormal pranks and ghostly grins to Vue from 22 March. Returning to New York City, the Spengler Family from Ghostbusters: Afterlife must unite with the original Ghostbusters to take on an evil force that threatens the world with a second Ice Age.  

With a cast that includes newer names such as Paul Rudd and Finn Wolfhard and original ‘busters Bill Murray and Dan Akyroyd, Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire looks to provide eerie thrills for the entire family this half term.  

Sweeter than a spoonful of sugar, both Mary Poppins and its recent sequel Mary Poppins Returns are heading back to the big screen at Vue this Easter, marking 60 years since the release of the iconic first film.     

Making its debut on the big screen after exclusively releasing on streaming platforms, Disney’s recent adventure Luca will be playing at Vue from the 5 April. Set in a beautiful seaside town on the Italian Riviera, this animated adventure tells a coming-of-age story about one young boy’s unforgettable summer filled with gelato, scooters and his new best friend – who turns out to be a sea monster from a secret world below the ocean.  

Vue will also be bringing back some of the biggest family films from the past year, perfect for Easter viewing including the chocolatey charm of Wonka from 29 March and Disney’s Wish from 5 April as part of the Vue Mini Mornings series, shown every day across Half Term at 10am.  

Robert Lea, Head of Screen Content at Vue Entertainment, said ‘We’ve got a great selection of new films and big screen entertainment on show this Easter providing the perfect way to enjoy quality time with the family over the school break.  

‘With film screenings from just £4.99 online at selected venues the big screen experience at Vue is the perfect treat during the Easter holidays. 

‘Even better, our Vue Mini Mornings at 10am, will continue to show the latest kids’ films at just £2.49 a ticket if purchased online and £3.49 in venue. Parents and children can come along, switch off and immerse themselves in great stories.” 
 

Tickets are available now at www.myvue.com. 

Cineworld Edinburgh welcomes back IMAX Film Fest with £3 tickets

·       IMAX FILM FEST TO TAKE PLACE ON SATURDAY 20 APRIL

·       TICKETS REDUCED TO £3 FOR ALL FILMS, ALL DAY, ONLY IN IMAX 

·       OFFER VALID ACROSS ALL IMAX CINEWORLD SITES IN THE UK & IRELAND

Cineworld, the UK’s leading cinema chain, will be holding its seventh annual IMAX Film Fest on Saturday 20th April 2024 with tickets on sale now! 

IMAX is the world’s most immersive cinematic experience, the special one-day event will give film fans across the nation the chance to catch some of last year’s best movies in IMAX for only £3 a ticket.

For one day only, Cineworld will bring back some of 2023’s biggest hitters including:

  • The Super Mario Bros. Movie – family favourite with an all-star cast of voice actors including Jack Black as Bowser 
  • Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse – Miles Morales returns for the next chapter of the Oscar-winning Spider-Verse saga, fun for all ages!
  • The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes – prequel to the popular series starring Rachel Zegler and Tom Blyth formatted exclusively for IMAX. Experience up to 26% more picture, only in IMAX. 
  • Oppenheimer – Oscar winning epic shot with IMAX film cameras and the first film to shoot sections on IMAX black-and-white photographic film. IMAX is the format it was intended to be watched in!

The festival will give guests the chance to experience their favourite star-studded blockbusters with the IMAX difference, where crystal clear images and pulse raising audio will make you feel like you’re in the room.

Stuart Crane, VP of Film Cineworld Group, said: “We’re thrilled to bring back the IMAX film festival for the seventh year in a row and look forward to guests experiencing their favourite blockbusters in this revolutionary format for only £3 a ticket.

“We hope guests enjoy the incredible picture and sound of IMAX, there’s no better time to try out IMAX than the IMAX Film Fest!” 

Tickets for this spectacular experience can now be purchased from the Cineworld website or the Cineworld app.

#IMAXFilmFest

Cineworld IMAX Sites: 

Ashford

Ashton-under-Lyne

Barnsley

Basildon

Belfast

Birmingham – Broad Street

Birmingham – NEC

Broughton

Cheltenham

Chichester

Crawley

Edinburgh

Glasgow – Silverburn

Hemel Hempstead

Ipswich

Leeds – White Rose

London – Enfield

London – Leicester Square

Nottingham

Plymouth

Rushden Lakes

Sheffield

Stevenage

Telford

Watford

York

Gaelic Film winners unveiled at biggest-ever FilmG awards ceremony

On Friday night, the winners of this year’s prestigious Gaelic short film competition, FilmG, were announced to an audience of almost 500 filmmakers, industry professionals, and FilmG devotees.

The event took place in the Lomond Auditorium of the SEC in Glasgow and was hosted by BBC ALBA stars Lana Pheutan and Hannah McKirdy who saw winners crowned across 16 categories.

Taking top spot in the under 18 competition was Parker Dawes who won the Best Film for Iomlaineachd (Perfection).

This is the second year in a row that Dawes has picked up the Best Film Award, a testament to his Gaelic storytelling ability and continued investment in his craft, earmarking him as one of Scotland’s best young film talents.

Parker Dawes, Best Film winner (-18), said: “It was an amazing night and it was great that people had the opportunity to view and appreciate my film.

“I enjoy entertaining people with my stories and competitions like FilmG enable me to do this and to pursue filmmaking which is something I really love. This is my second year winning, but it still came as a big surprise – it’s still sinking in!”

Securing first place in the over 18 category for Best Film was Kayleigh Bell’s documentary, Sealladh mo Sheanair, which explores her “Grandfather’s Perspective” through a series of interviews. This is Kayleigh’s first win in this category at the FilmG Awards.

Kayleigh Bell, Best Film winner (18+), said: “I’m quite shocked I won – I thought all the nominees were fantastic. I still can’t quite believe it.

“It’s my first time winning FilmG ever and I’m so glad it was with a personal story – my Granda would have been very proud and I think he’d be very happy to see himself on TV. This win has been really encouraging – I’ve definitely got lots of ideas and plans for next year’s competition.”

Other winners include Thurso High School who won the new Inspiration Award in the under 18 competition for their film, Ar Sealladh aig Àrd-sgoil Inbhir Theòrsa, a documentary that explores the views of Thurso’s teachers and pupils on Gaelic medium education.

The Inspiration Award in the over 18 competition went to Edinburgh-based filmmaker, Luca Kerr, for his horror Campachadh (Camping).

Glasgow-based production company, Lost Rollerskate Pictures, picked up the award for Best Story (-18) for their film, A bheil thu an sin? (Are you there?). This is the first year the production company entered FilmG, headed up by high school student, Tomas Dimbleby Weber.

Individual prizes went to Inverness filmmaker Rachel Urquhart who won the Technical Excellence Award (18+) for her work on her documentary, Còisir – Mgr M!, about the impact of Mr MacMillan and his choir at Inverness Gaelic Primary School. The Rionnag Award (-18), for the best off-screen contribution, went to polyglot Jasmine Krzyzanowska-Pawlak from Millburn Academy in Inverness – who is learning Gaelic as her third language – for her camera work on Sealladh na Bànrigh.

Last year’s Best Performance winner, Finlay Morrison, has once again won the award in the under 18 competition, however, this year he shares the accolade with his brother Calum for their performances in the comedy, Bràthair Mòr Nan Gàidheal!!. 

In the over 18 competition, the Best Performance Award was won by Evie Waddell, a Gaelic and Scots singer hailing from Stirlingshire, for her film, Fios no Fois. Her film explores the confusions of deaf experience through Gaelic song, accompanying choreography, and BSL.

There were also two winners for the FilmG Choice Award – the only awards selected by public vote via the FilmG website. In the under 18 competition the winner was Sgoil Lionacleit, on the Isle of Benbecula, for their moving film, Aillse, Sealladh Marsaili, which explores Marsaili’s journey with cancer from a young age.

In the over 18 competition, Skye’s Niamh MacKinnon took home the Choice Award for her film, Glac an Latha, which encourages everyone to embrace the present.

A highlights programme will be shown on BBC ALBA at 8pm this evening (Sunday 25 February). Watch live on BBC ALBA or on demand on BBC iPlayer: www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/m001wsfr.

The livestream of the whole event is also available now on the BBC ALBA YouTube channel.

FilmG Project Manager, Megan Dale, said: “What a brilliant night! We’re still reflecting on the wealth of talent and enthusiasm displayed during the FilmG Awards.

“2024 has been a year of firsts for FilmG; we had our first entrants from Canada; it was our first year at the SEC; we had new presenters; and our biggest-ever audience of 500 attending the awards. Our bigger venue meant that more nominees and FilmG enthusiasts could attend the awards and this added a real buzz to the event.

“A huge congratulations to all the nominees and winners – it was fantastic seeing them all dressed up for the awards night and it truly felt like the Gaelic Baftas.”

MG ALBA’s Head of Publishing, Maggie Taylor, said: “A huge congratulations to all our nominees and winners – what a brilliant night celebrating the best of Gaelic storytelling.

“What becomes evident – looking at the talented list of FilmG winners – is that Gaelic storytellers hail from all over Scotland. We have winners from Thurso, Inverness, Skye, Edinburgh, Glasgow, and the Western Isles.

“A big thank-you to Lana and Hannah who did a fantastic job at keeping the room captivated whilst presenting awards to the next generation of Gaelic filmmakers. Hopefully nights like the FilmG Awards encourage Gaelic speakers to continue making films and that their stories and voices are incredibly important in shaping Scotland’s storytelling.”

A full list of films from FilmG can be found at www.filmg.co.uk.

New presenters set to host Gaelic film’s biggest night of the year

BBC ALBA stars, Lana Pheutan and Hannah McKirdy, are set to host Gaelic film’s biggest night of the year: the FilmG Awards. The presenters will oversee the awards ceremony on Friday (23 February) where winners will be crowned for the 16th annual iteration of the Gaelic short-film competition.

With the awards historically held at the Old Fruitmarket in Glasgow and hosted by BBC ALBA stalwarts Fiona MacKenzie and Niall Iain MacDonald, the event this year takes place at the SEC with Lana and Hannah welcoming the audience of almost 500 filmmakers, industry professionals and FilmG devotees.

Lana and Hannah themselves participated in FilmG over the years, both picking up awards that helped propel them into their media careers.

Hannah picked up a Best Performance trophy in 2017 for Cheating our Language while Lana has won numerous awards, including winning two in 2017 (Best Comedy and People’s Choice Award), three in 2018 (Best Performance, Best Student Film and People’s Choice Award) and the prestigious Best Film award in 2019 for her film Sòlas.

Since then, Lana and Hannah have worked together regularly, as actors, podcasters and most recently as co-creators and stars of the BBC ALBA mockumentary Glan Fhèin, and as co-hosts of the successful BBC Radio nan Gàidheal podcast Fad Botal Fìon.

New FilmG co-host, Lana Pheutan, said: “This is the first year that myself and Hannah are presenting the FilmG Awards and I’m really excited, and a bit nervous, for what has historically been a fantastic night.

“We’ve both attended many FilmG ceremonies over the years and it’s always a great chance for young Gaelic speakers to meet, mingle, and celebrate the language. It’s up to us to keep the crowd entertained whilst guiding the FilmG nominees through a seamless night of celebrating Gaelic short films.”

New FilmG co-host, Hannah McKirdy, said: “FilmG is a fantastic vehicle for developing Gaelic talent, and Lana and I both benefited from the experience we gained through creating films, writing scripts, and later winning awards.

“This year, over 50 films have been shortlisted across the categories, which demonstrates the wealth of Gaelic Filmmaking talent in Scotland and beyond. We know exactly how excited and nervous the nominees will be – we’ve been in their shoes – so Lana and I will be there on the night to ensure everyone has a good time.”

The FilmG Awards will take place on the evening of Friday 23 February in the Lomond Auditorium of the SEC in Glasgow.

The awards will be live-streamed to BBC ALBA’s YouTube and FilmG’s Facebook, with a highlights programme to be broadcast two days later on BBC ALBA (8pm on Sunday 25 February): https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/m001wsfr.

Vue Edinburgh brings back classic films for Valentine’s Day  

To mark Valentine’s Day, four classic romance films are returning to the big screen at Vue Edinburgh Omni and Edinburgh Ocean– for one night only. 

To kick things off, the timeless love story of Jack and Rose is back with Titanic. The film is an epic, action-packed romance set against the ill-fated maiden voyage of the ‘unsinkable’ Titanic – at the time, the largest moving object ever built. James Cameron’s multi-Academy Award-winner will be on the big screen in 3D 4K HDR and high-frame rate, with a cast headed by Oscar winners Leonardo DiCaprio and Kate Winslet. 

For those looking for a more uplifting spectacle, 10 Things I Hate About You will also be returning to the big screen for Valentine’s Day. The 90s classic stars Julia Stiles and the late Heath Ledger as they navigate high school dating in this wildly entertaining romcom – as loved now as it was 25 years ago. 

For lovers of musicals, one of the most celebrated productions of all time will be returning to Vue. Set against the backdrop of 19th-century France, Les Misérables tells the story of ex-prisoner Jean Valjean (Hugh Jackman), hunted for decades by the ruthless policeman Javert (Russell Crowe), after he breaks parole. When Valjean agrees to care for factory worker Fantine’s (Anne Hathaway) young daughter, Cosette, their lives change forever.  

Finally, one of (if not the) ultimate romcom, Notting Hill will also be returning to the big screen on 14 February. Hugh Grant stars as a London bookstore owner whose humdrum existence is thrown into romantic turmoil when a famous American actress (Julia Roberts) appears in his shop.

A chance encounter over spilled orange juice leads to a kiss that blossoms into a full-blown affair.

As the average bloke and glamorous movie star draw closer and closer together, they struggle to reconcile their radically different lifestyles in the name of love.  

Toby Bradon, General Manager of Vue UK & Ireland, said: “We’re thrilled to be showing four classic romance films this Valentine’s Day.

“No matter who you choose to spend the day with, these titles are sure to bring back fond emotions for lovers of film. 

“There’s nothing quite like the magic of the big screens and Vue is the perfect place to celebrate Valentine’s!”  

Tickets are available online from just £4.99 at select venues at www.myvue.com. 

Nominees announced for Gaelic short film competition

Luca Kerr from Edinburgh has been nominated for the Inspiration Award for his film ‘Campachadh.’

While some may be eagerly awaiting the Baftas and Oscars, Scotland’s Gaelic communities are busy preparing for Gaelic film’s biggest night of the year: the FilmG Awards.

Over 50 films have been shortlisted for the FilmG Awards, a night celebrating the best Gaelic storytellers and filmmakers in Scotland and beyond. Winners will be crowned in categories such as Best Performance, Best Production Design, Technical Excellence, and the Best Film Award.

Leading the way with four nominations in the Under-18 competition is ‘A Bheil Thu An Sin?’, a psychological drama by the new independent filmmaking group Lost Rollerskate Pictures from Glasgow Gaelic School.

In the Over-18 competition, Inverness charity FC Sonas’s ‘Blàr nan Gàidheal’, which tells the story of the first-ever official football match in Gaelic, also has four nominations, closely followed by Isle of Lewis-based Tormod MacLeod’s funeral farce ‘An Tiodhlaiceadh’ (three nominations).

With the judges’ job now complete, the only categories still to be decided are the FilmG Choice Awards, with the public vote for these categories still open until midnight, 2nd February. Votes can be cast online by the public at www.FilmG.co.uk.

Rachel Kennedy, FilmG Judge and star of hit BBC ALBA drama series An Clò Mòr, said: “It’s been a record-breaking year for FilmG, with over 160 entries – the highest number of submissions since the competition began. The appetite for the competition is brilliant, but it makes our job as judges incredibly difficult as there is so much talent to choose from.

“Our shortlist has been carefully considered and showcases the best Gaelic filmmakers based on production, technical ability, and storytelling. From highly skilled animation to tear-jerking documentaries and cutting-edge dramas, the high level of talent, creativity, and effort has been evident in every film shortlisted, and they are all deserved finalists.”

FilmG Project Manager, Megan Dale, said: “The theme for this year was “Mo Shealladh’ (My Point of View), and all the entrants embraced this by showcasing different perspectives and playing with form. The shortlisted films show a deep understanding of perspective and the importance of listening to Scotland’s multitude of voices.

“The nominees represent different perspectives from all over Scotland, including Thurso, Portree, Glasgow, Harris, Lewis, Dunoon, and Inverness. Often, when we think of the film industry, we picture London or Glasgow, but FilmG shows that a wealth of talent can be found in all corners of Scotland (and beyond) and that it is important to encourage these voices to be heard.”

MG ALBA’s Head of Publishing, Maggie Taylor, said: “Congratulations to all the nominees this year – it’s wonderful to see such a diverse selection of stories and to acknowledge the skill, talent, and enormous technical effort it takes to bring them alive. The Awards night is where this talent can be recognised, and I’m excited to see who will be crowned FilmG winners on 23 February.

“For the first time, the nominees list includes Gaelic filmmakers from the Isle of Man and Canada, showing the international reach of the Gaelic film competition. We hope to continue developing FilmG’s transnational ties and supporting the talented filmmakers emerging across Scotland.”

The FilmG Awards will take place on 23 February in the Lomond Auditorium of Glasgow’s illustrious SEC.

The awards will be live-streamed to YouTube, with a highlights programme to be broadcast two days later on BBC ALBA (Sunday 25 February).

Leading Scottish film producer Chris Young to spearhead Sean Connery Talent Lab

NFTS appoints renowned Scottish film producer and founder of award-winning Young Films to lead the Sean Connery Talent Lab in Edinburgh

The National Film and Television School (NFTS) is thrilled to announce acclaimed Scottish film producer and founder of Young Films, Chris Young will lead the inaugural Sean Connery Talent Lab as part of the expansion of NFTS Scotland.

Bringing a wealth of industry expertise and a legacy of close to four decades in filmmaking, Chris will spearhead the transformative 12-month programme aimed at developing emerging filmmakers across Scotland and the UK.

Aspiring writers/directors, producers, cinematographers, editors and production designers have until midnight on 29th January to apply, with the first cohort embarking on their training journey in Leith from April.

To ensure the programme is as accessible to as many people as possible, each of the 30 places are substantially subsidised, with 70% of fees generously underwritten by the Sean Connery Foundation.

Since its inception in 1986, Young Films has become synonymous with critically acclaimed and award-winning productions, spanning feature films and television.

From early successes like Venus Peter and Gregory’s Two Girls to developing The Inbetweeners for Channel 4, with the spin off film, The Inbetweeners Movie becoming the UK’s highest-grossing comedy film, Chris Young has been at the forefront of shaping the Scottish film landscape.

His commitment to fostering talent is evident in initiatives such as the nine-series Scottish Gaelic drama Bannan, created on the Isle of Skye, and the establishment of the Young Films Foundation in 2017, focused on training the next generation of Scottish screenwriters.

The Sean Connery Talent Lab is set to become a cornerstone of the Scottish film industry. In his role as head of the Sean Connery Talent Lab, Chris Young will leverage his extensive experience to guide and mentor 30 emerging creatives as they hone and develop their craft and increase the scale and ambition of their work. They will bring to life their own unique short films, made with the support of BBC Film.

The NFTS has partnered with the Sean Connery Foundation for the Sean Connery Talent Lab and it is supported by a wide range of other industry partners, trusts and foundations who have pledged their support to underpin the programme with additional funding, bursaries and scholarships. 

BBC Film is the production partner with several other partners joining the Talent Lab including: The Dana and Albert Broccoli Foundation, FirstStage Studios, Blazing Griffin, DNA Films, Hartswood Films, Juniper Trust, LS Productions, the Rank Foundation and Synchronicity Films.

After 12 intensive months, the Sean Connery Talent Lab will culminate in the creation of six short films that will serve as powerful industry ‘calling cards’, offering an invaluable launchpad for the 30 talented individuals to make their mark on the world of film.

The final films will be submitted for both UK and international film festivals and will premiere at a prestigious showcase event, with industry figures from across Scotland, the UK and beyond invited to attend the screenings.

Upon successful completion of the programme, participants will be awarded an NFTS Diploma in Filmmaking.

Jon Wardle, NFTS Director said:“We are delighted to welcome Chris Young as head of the Sean Connery Talent Lab.

“This is an exceptional opportunity for the brightest talents in Scottish filmmaking to harness their unique creative voices and under the guidance of Chris, the Sean Connery Talent Lab is poised to make a lasting impression on the Scottish creative industry and beyond.”

Chris Young, Head of the Sean Connery Talent Lab commented: “For over 35 years, my unwavering passion has been to cultivate, sustain, and champion new talent in Scotland.

“This journey began with the establishment of Young Films, and I am thrilled to continue this mission by leading the Sean Connery Talent Lab in collaboration with the NFTS.

“The Lab represents an exciting opportunity to usher in a dynamic new generation of world-class filmmakers in Scotland, spanning crucial disciplines. Much like the NFTS has done over the years, and continues to do, the Sean Connery Talent Lab is poised to leave an indelible mark on the industry.

“To all those with talent and aspirations to contribute to the vibrant Film and TV landscape in Scotland, I wholeheartedly encourage you to apply. This Lab is more than just a programme; it’s a game-changer for Scotland, and its impact will reverberate across the industry for years to come.”

Stephane Connery, Chair of the Sean Connery Foundation said: “Chris Young’s infectious energy, connections across industry, and demonstrated commitment to launching breakthrough talent make him the ideal choice as the inaugural leader of the Sean Connery Talent Lab.” 

Jason Connery added: “We are so grateful to our partners who have come onboard, and we are keen to meet the first group of creators when the Talent Lab kicks off in the Spring.”

Applications for the Sean Connery Talent Lab will close at midnight on Monday 29th January 2024. 

For more information on how to apply and for eligibility criteria, go to: 

nfts.co.uk/sean-connery-talent-lab 

Barbenheimer DIY double bill returns to Vue this weekend as both films receive Oscar nominations

Film fans are in for a treat this weekend, with two of 2023’s biggest films – Barbie and Oppenheimer – returning to Vue sites in Edinburgh.

This week saw both films securing an impressive 21 Oscar nominations between them. Together, they created the cultural phenomenon ‘Barbenheimer’ – a huge moment not just in cinema, but in pop culture as a whole.

It was revealed on Tuesday (23 January) that Christopher Nolan’s Oppenheimer is up for 13 gongs, while Greta Gerwig’s Barbie is not far behind with eight.

To celebrate the impressive feat, film fans will once again be able to enjoy a DIY double feature of both titles at Vue Edinburgh Omni and Vue Edinburgh Ocean this Saturday.

Toby Bradon, General Manager at Vue UK & Ireland, said: ‘We’re thrilled to be welcoming back not one but two great blockbusters on Saturday 27 January and can’t wait to relive the magical movie moments from Great Gerwig and Christopher Nolan.

‘Both films performed brilliantly at the Golden Globes, and we can’t wait to see what’s in store for them at this year’s Oscars.’

Tickets start from just £7.99 when booked online. Visit myvue.com to find out more.