Funding puts filmmakers in picture

THE international pedigree of Scottish filmmakers will be given a boost over the next year following a funding coup from Holyrood and Scottish Screen.

The Edinburgh International Film Festival (EIFF) will promote Scottish producers at four international festivals through its 2010 "Features Scotland" programme, supported by the Scottish Government and Scottish Screen.

Launching at the Capital's Film Festival in June, Features Scotland will equip movie producers with the training, market knowledge, promotional and networking opportunities designed to advance their projects.

Culture minister Fiona Hyslop said the EIFF "champions creativity" and provides "vital opportunities for emerging talent".

Masterclasses, workshops and meetings with industry figureheads will be led by guests that include writing and directing talent, financiers, executive producers, sales agents, media lawyers and distributors

The 2010 Feature Scotland filmmakers, who were formally announced in Cannes yesterday are: Wendy Griffin, Carolynne Sinclair Kidd, Micky MacPherson, Suzanne Reid, Andy Green and Ciara Barry.