Limerick producers pitch ambitious projects at European Film Market
Local producers recently worked on projects such as Bonhoeffer and Wayfinders
LOCAL producers have been pitching their projects to film financiers in Berlin after being selected to join this year's European Film Market.
Three locally-based film producers were selected as part of this year’s Film in Limerick delegation to the European Film Market.
Producers, Melissa Collins, Grainne Carroll and Steve Hall were selected as part of a training initiative by Innovate Limerick through Film in Limerick, in partnership with Limerick and Clare Education and Training Board.
Taking place alongside the Berlinale Film Festival, the European Film Market (EFM) is one of the top film markets in the world.
Attended by over 8,300 international industry professionals, including 1,500 buyers and more than 480 exhibitors, the EFM is where independent film producers find partners and finance to make their projects a reality.
Speaking of the initiative, Regional Film Manager at Film in Limerick, Paul C. Ryan said: "It’s fantastic to continue our partnership with Limerick and Clare Education and Training Board to offer this chance for new producers to experience a working film and TV market.
"The participants attend industry training events and learn how to attract finance for their future projects. With the support of Limerick and Clare Education and Training Board our participants are able to build their networks and knowledge at an international level."
This year’s delegation already have a wealth of experience in the industry. Melissa Collins, a graduate of Creative Broadcast and Film Production at TUS, has produced several high-profile short films including the documentary ‘Vonnie: Ireland's Forgotten Fashion Icon’ and the upcoming Engine short film ‘Baps and Buns’.
Grainne Carroll has worked as on several features and TV series including the AppleTV+ show ‘Foundation, filmed at Troy Studios, and as line producer on the soon-to-be released feature Bonhoeffer, which was also filmed in the region.
Steve Hall, has directed the successful features, ‘Nightshift’ and ‘The Gates’ as well as producing the recently filmed pilot TV drama, ‘Wayfinders’, made at Troy Studios and throughout the Mid West region.
Eimear Brophy, Further Education and Training manager, Enterprise Engagement, at Limerick and Clare Education and Training Board said: "We are delighted to continue this innovative initiative with Film in Limerick, providing skills development training to producers who are developing their feature and TV projects.
"Along with our other film training supports, we are working to address skills gaps and to create pathways into working in the screen industries in the Mid-West.”