Calling all movie buffs - Award-winning film and TV producer Martin Pope is to be special industry guest at the opening night of the 2012 Isle of Man Film Festival, held at the Broadway Cinema Douglas. On Friday 14th September at 7.30pm there will a special Q&A screening of The Heart of Me which was produced by Martin and filmed in London and the Isle of Man in 2001. A brooding period drama starring Paul Bettany, Helena Bonham-Carter and Olivia Williams, the film will be followed by a question and answer session with the visiting producer. In addition to discussing The Heart of Me, Martin will be giving advice about producing films in general and gaining vital career experience in the UK film industry.
Martin has unparalleled expertise in utilising the Isle of Man as a film location and production base. From humble beginnings as a runner at the BBC Martin is now a highly experienced film craftsman with a diverse range of award-winning film credits. His projects range from the Daniel Craig-narrated nature documentary One Life and the TV adaptation of children’s favourite The Gruffalo to Chico & Rita, the Isle of Man’s first Oscar nominated film. On Chico & Rita, Martin trained and employed ten animators in the Isle of Man over a period of sixteen months.
The Heart of Me is widely regarded as a modern classic. Michael O'Sullivan of the Washington Post calls the film “..a little, heartbreaking gem”.
Hilary Dugdale, manager of Isle of Man Film said:
“I am delighted that Martin is able to join us at this year’s festival and share some of his experience and advice with aspiring filmmakers in the Isle of Man. Martin’s skill as a producer is second-to-none and it was a hard choice as to which of his films to revisit at this year’s festival. The Heart of Me is a great study in what can be achieved on the Island in terms of exterior locations, set-build and quality production design.”
Tickets cost £5 for the Friday 14th screening, or £12 for all weekend screenings. To purchase tickets for the event, contact the Villa Marina Box office on 01624 600555 or visit the IOM Welcome Centre at Douglas Sea Terminal. Mannin Shorts will be running a series of film workshops throughout the festival weekend; for more information visit http://iomff2012.wordpress.com or contact info@manninshorts.com.
