Film Hub Wales (FHW), led by Chapter as part of the BFI Film Audience Network, has announced two pioneering new projects that will champion Welsh storytelling across Wales, the UK and internationally.
Supported by Creative Wales and developed in consultation with Welsh screen organisations, an exciting new role will be created for a Made in Wales Officer. Building on the work of FHW to date, the post holder will explore ways of bringing Welsh film to public audiences, ensuring that regional stories, talent and locations are at the forefront. Details of the post can be found on Film Hub Wales’ website.
Also underway, is a piece of research into the potential of Made in Wales as a recognisable brand. Funded by Clwstwr, the project will explore the possible cultural and economic impact of a national brand for films with Welsh connections. The research will be delivered by social and economic research specialists, Wavehill, in partnership with Pontio Arts and Innovation Centre and Bangor University, who will test perceptions of film branding and Welsh identity.
Hana Lewis, strategic manager for Film Hub Wales explains: “Our ambition is for Welsh film to be recognised alongside quality independent and foreign language titles worldwide. This is something we’ve been committed to since the Hub’s inception and we’re grateful for the support to take this work to a new level.
There’s so much creativity in Wales and we want this story to be told. In this economic climate, we can’t presume that if a film is good enough, it will be seen. This work will prioritise the audience, exploring how to maximise the journey of a film once it’s been made.”
Gerwyn Evans, Deputy Director of Creative Wales, said: “I’m delighted that we can support the work of Film Hub Wales which will work to raise the profile of Welsh film and also ensure that the stories which we tell through film are representative of our regions and communities.”
Sally Griffith, Clwstwr Producer adds: “We’re really pleased to be able to work with Film Hub Wales on this research. As an organisation supporting R&D in the screen and news sector, we can see the real potential of this work to producers of film and cinema audiences as well as to the screen sector in it’s widest sense.”
Ann Griffiths, BFI’s Senior Manager for UK-wide Audiences, said: “It’s great that Film Hub Wales is boosting opportunities for audiences across Wales to see
Welsh stories and Welsh talent on the big screen alongside films from around the world. FAN is all about increasing choice and reflecting a diversity of perspectives and experiences so this project is a welcome extension of the work being carried out by Welsh FAN members and Chapter as the Hub Lead.” Thanks to National Lottery funding FHW delivers a wide portfolio of activity annually, bringing more films, to more people, at more cinemas and film festivals across Wales.