Terry Gilliam held a master class for Northern Ireland filmmakers in Belfast recently. Organised as one part of a visit from the British Film Institute (BFI), Gilliam also took part in an in-depth interview with Michael Orpen, Director of Queens Film Theatre. Terry Gilliam, best known for his work with the Monty Python team and for his work as a producer, director and writer on films such as the Fisher King and Six Monkeys is a Governor of the BFI.
Also involved with the trip was Ronnie Kells, Chairman of the Northern Ireland Film Commission. Referring to the recent appointment of producer and broadcaster Joan Bakewell as Chair of the BFI and the establishment of the new Film Council he said, “I am delighted that the BFI is visiting Belfast. This historic visit is another small step towards the recognition that Northern Ireland has plenty to offer the creative filmmaker and it heralds a positive, new future for the expanding local industry.”
During the trip the Governors attended a special screening of Northern Ireland Short films. “With so much filmmaking happening traditionally out of London, a trip like this to the regions is a great opportunity for local filmmakers,” explained Julia Carson of the Northern Ireland Film Commission. “It helps create an image of Northern Ireland as a place where filmmaking happens” she said.
Contact the Northern Ireland Film Commission at www.nifc.co.uk
