News and Events

New production is announced - submitted 28th May 2008

Our nest production, Heartless due on the Island on the 30th June stars up and coming British actor Jim Sturgess (The Other Boleyn Girl), well established Brit actor Timothy Spall (Harry Potter series) French actress Clemence Posey (In Bruges), Noel Clarke (Doctor Who), and Joseph Mawle (Foyle's War). Directed and written by Philip Ridley, it tells the story of Jamie Morgan (Sturgess) who makes a deal with a demon in order to start his life afresh.

Filming underway on Me and Orson Welles - submitted 25th February 2008

Whilst 'A Bunch of Amateurs' leave the Island, the cast and crew for our next production, Me and Orson Welles have now arrived bringing Zac-mania with them! Me and Orson Welles has just started shooting in Douglas for three weeks and tells the story of a young actor's (Zac Efron) chance encounter with Orson Welles (Christian McKay) and his subsequent acting role in Welles' Julius Caesar at the famous Mercury Theatre. Claire Danes, Ben Chaplin and Kelly Reilly also star.

Our next Production - Bunch Of Amateurs - submitted 10th January 2008

The New Year will get off to a great start for the Island’s film industry with the arrival of US superstar Burt Reynolds who will be leading a fabulous ensemble cast of British actors in the comedy drama feature film “A Bunch of Amateurs”.

As well as starring Burt Reynolds, A Bunch of Amateurs cast list also includes some of the best of British acting talent – Imelda Staunton (Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix, Cranford) Sir Derek Jacobi (The Golden Compass, Gladiator) and Samantha Bond (Tomorrow Never Dies etc, Fanny Hill) have already confirmed their participation.

A Bunch of Amateurs is due to start filming at various locations around the Island from early February.

Freefonix to be screened on BBC One and CBBC - submitted 2nd January 2008

Freefonix, the exciting new 3D CGI animated children’s cartoon series produced on the Isle of Man by Balley Beg Studios is due to be screened on CBBC and BBC One from Friday 4th January.

Part financed by Isle of Man Film, Freefonix features some very special guest stars who voice characters, sing and play instruments in the show. R'n'B superstar Jamelia plays the singing part of Sugar Che, mentor and funky fairy godmother to Freefonix. Justin Hawkins from The Darkness sings and lends his unique guitar playing skills to Kurtz, lead singer of Mantyz. Throughout the series other guest stars appearing include pop star Chico, cricketer Alistair Cook, actor Joseph Fiennes and musician Hayley Ecker – plus a whole host of other names will be announced as the series progresses.

It was created by Magnus Fiennes, brother of Joseph and Ralph – a renowned music producer (who co-wrote and produced the first All-Saints album) and has worked with many international artists including Lenny Kravitz, Morcheeba, Spice Girls, Sugababes and Tom Jones.

Freefonix have discovered a sophisticated way of fighting their battles against rival band Mantyz, by using the power of the Thirteenth Note, an awesome force that can bend space and minds when the perfect sound is created. When the two rival bands meet, the result is an explosive Soundclash, where the opposing forces do battle as all the energies of the Thirteenth Note are released. The action continues each week as the Freefonix protect the guardians of the Thirteenth Note and begin to understand its magical properties.

Freefonix will run weekly for 40 half-hour episodes starting on 4th January on CBBC and BBC One at 1620. Freefonix is the largest commission by the BBC for an animation aimed at 7 to 11 year olds. The show is a combination of sophisticated storytelling, incredible music and amazing characters and graphics.

Plan your Christmas viewing! - submitted 20th December 2007

Many of our films made it onto the TV schedules this Christmas, for a complete list please click here.

Chromophobia is released - submitted 27th November 2007

Chromophobia is premiering in the UK on the 14th December. Filmed on the Island in 2004, it closed the Cannes Film Festival in 2005 and has a quality British cast including Kristen Scott Thomas, Ralph Fiennes, Damien Lewis and Rhys Ifans. Penelope Cruz also stars in the film, directed by Martha Fiennes and described as a darkly comic urban drama.

Who Gets the Dog to be screened - submitted 27th November 2007

Isle of Man Film production, Who Gets the Dog will get its premiere screening this weekend when it is broadcast on ITV1 at 9pm on Sunday 2nd December. Shot in the Island last year and produced by Island-regulars Company Pictures, the 90 minute comedy drama starring Kevin Whately, (Auf Wiedersehen Pet, Lewis) Alison Steadman, (The Dinner Party, Gavin and Stacey) Stephen Mangan, (Green Wing, Confetti) and Emma Pierson (Hotel Babylon, Talk to Me) tells the story of married couple Jack and Jenny.

Your property as a film location - submitted 15 October 2007

Have you ever thought about using your property as a film location? We are currently developing a searchable online locations database, set to be live before Christmas, and would like to encourage local property owners to register their property with us. Using your property as a film location can provide you with extra income and a chance to see film-making live in action. We are in particular need of farmhouses and farm buildings, contemporary interiors, historic Manor houses and Pubs and restaurants, although a location can be anything a script calls for. If you would like to register your property, you should read the guidance notes first before filling in the entry form and sending it back with some pictures (preferably digital).

Japanese adore Miss Potter - submitted 27 September 2007

The Beatrix Potter biopic Miss Potter has taken Japan by storm grossing $2,525,500 in it's first week. Released on 292 screens, the film attracted Japan's huge Beatrix Potter fanbase ,who have made her books and related merchandise strong sellers. Miss Potter has grossed $28 million to date.

Films on Sky this month - submitted 17th September 2007

Many of our films are screening on Sky this month; please download the September list for detailed information.

Under the Stars event a success - submitted 10th September 2007

The weekend's outdoor screenings of Grease and Casino Royale were extremely successful, with a great turnout and beautiful weather to boot! The stunning backdrop of The Nunnery grounds added further ambience to the event. The Friday night sell out screening of Grease attracted families and groups who were all keen to sing along and dance during the film, creating a fantastic atmosphere (that was further propelled by the glasses of wine!). Saturday night's screening of Casino Royale was slightly more demure, although the females in the audience seemed to enjoy Daniel Craig emerging from the sea...

As this was our (and the Island's) first public outdoor film screenings, we would appreciate feedback from those who attended the event to see how we can improve for next year. All suggestions are welcome to iomfilm@dti.gov.im

Sparkle to be released in the UK - submitted 10th August 2007

The romantic comedy Sparkle, is being released in the UK on the 17th August, following its premiere at the Edinburgh Film Festival the night before. It was filmed in the Island last year and has its own dedicated website http://www.sparklethemovie.co.uk

Finley the Fire Engine on CBeebies - submitted 23rd July 2007

Finley the Fire Engine, Isle of Man Film's first animation project, will be screening nightly on CBeebies at 5pm on week nights and 4pm during the weekend. The 39 episode series tells the tale of Finley and the residents of Friendlyville.

Talk to Me to be televised this Sunday - submitted 6th June 2007

Talk to Me aka Is This Love? is to be shown on ITV from the 10th June at 9.30pm. The 4 part series was shot in the Island in January this year and written by Danny Brocklehurst, who has previously written for the critically acclaimed TV series Shameless. Directed by Dearbhla Walsh and produced by Matt Jones, who also both worked on Shameless, it stars Max Beesley, Laura Fraser, Joseph Millson, Kate Ashfield, Emma Pierson and Adrian Bower.

Early reviews are extremely positive with the Radio Times describing it as 'well written, classily made and at times even sexy'.

Miss Potter released on DVD - submitted 23rd April 2007

Miss Potter, the tale of the life of prolific children's story writer Beatrix Potter, is released on DVD today. The film stars Renee Zellwegger as Beatrix Potter and Ewan McGregor as Norman Warne, her publisher.

Big Nothing released on DVD - submitted 16th April 2007

Big Nothing starring Simon Pegg and David Schwimmer has been released on DVD to buy today. Shot on the Island in 2005 the film tells the tale of a bungled blackmail plot.

Isle of Man Film Announces Next Production - submitted 26th March 2007

Isle of Man Film's next production entitled 'The Cottage' will begin shooting on the Island from Tuesday 27th March.

'The Cottage' will star Andy Serkis (Lord of the Rings Trilogy), Reece Shearsmith (The League of Gentlemen) and Jennifer Ellison (The Phantom of The Opera) and will be executive produced by Island regular Martin Pope of Magic Light Pictures (Sparkle, Lawless Heart). Directed by Paul Andrew Williams and Produced by Ken Marshall, the team behind the mulitple award winning hit 'London to Brighton', the £2.6million feature film is described as a British comedy-horror along the lines of Severance, a recent Isle of Man Film success.

Isle of Man Movie Map tops government download charts - submitted 21st March 2007

The Isle of Man Movie Map was the most popular download for the entire Government website for the month of February 2007

Isle of Man Movie Map Released - submitted 9th February 2007

Trace the steps of the stars with the new Isle of Man Movie Map released today.

Miss Potter gets local release - submitted 22nd January 2007

Miss Potter will get a local release as The Palace cinema is currently screening Miss Potter for a season. Tickets can be booked online at www.palace-cinema.com.

Miss Potter gets UK release - submitted 8th January 2007

Miss Potter was released in cinemas last Friday (5th January) and has received some great reviews, with the Mail on Sunday describing it as 'A Triumph for British Charm'.

Is This Love? starts today - submitted 8th January 2007

Isle of Man Film's next Production titled 'Is This Love?' will start shooting on the Island from today. Produced by Island-regulars Company Pictures, who most recently shot Who Gets the Dog? on the Island, it stars Max Beasley (Hotel Babylon), Kate Ashfield (Shaun of the Dead) and Emma Pierson (Who Gets the Dog?).

The four-part television drama is described as ‘Cold feet with tough edges’ as it tells the story of a love triangle between a couple and their best friend. Directed by Dearbhla Walsh (Shameless) and produced by Matt Jones (Shameless), filming is set to continue through January till the 2nd of February.

Miss Potter makes it through the first round of BAFTA voting - submitted 8th January 2007

Miss Potter has made it through the first round of voting by BAFTA members in the Orange British Academy Film Awards, appearing in seven categories; Original Screenplay, Make-up & Hair, Costume Design, Cinematography, Film Music, Actress in a Leading role (Renee Zellweger) and Actress in a Supporting role (Emily Watson).

The second round of voting is open now and will close on the 10th January whereupon the shortlist of five films will be decided. The BAFTAs take place on February 11th at London’s Royal Opera House.

Severance is released on DVD - submitted 8th January 2007

Comedy Horror film Severance, filmed on the Island back in 2004, is released on DVD to buy from today. The film attracted great reviews with James King, the Radio 1 Film critic describing the film as ‘Absolutely Brilliant – Scary and Hilarious’.

Miss Potter nominated for Golden Globe - submitted 15th December 2006

Isle of Man Film is delighted to announce its first Golden Globe nomination for Renee Zellweger's portrayal of Beatrix Potter in the film Miss Potter. Nominations were announced yesterday and Renee's competitors for Best Actress (Musicical or Comedy) include Annette Bening for "Running with Scissors" Toni Collette for "Little Miss Sunshine" Beyonce Knowles for "Dreamgirls" and Meryl Streep for "The Devil Wears Prada". The awards will be presented on 15th January 2007 in Hollywood.

Miss Potter premieres in London - submitted 5th December 2006

Renee Zellweger and Ewan McGregor braved the cold weather on Sunday night to attend the World Premiere of Miss Potter, the film telling the story of the much-loved Children's author Beatrix Potter. It was filmed partly on the Island during April this year and is set for a UK general release in Cinemas on the 5th January 2007. View the stars arriving on the red carpet and clips of the film at the Reuters website. Also released is a beautifully illustrated 'Making of Miss Potter' movie companion book written by Garth Pearce and a novel of the film written by Richard Maltby which are available to buy now.

Big Nothing gets UK release - submitted 29th November 2006

Starring Simon Pegg and David Schwimmer, Big Nothing hits UK cinemas this Friday, 1st December. Empire magazine have described the film as 'beautifully shot..mixing humour and horror in equal mesaure'.

Stormbreaker released on DVD - submitted 10th November 2006

Perfectly timed for Christmas presents, Stormbreaker is released on DVD in the UK on Monday 13th November. It was shot on the Island last year and is based on the novels of the same name by Anthony Horowitz. The film was positively received by critics with The Times describing it as 'a British action hero to rival Bond'.

Severance nominated for BIFA - submitted 7th November 2006

Comedy Horror film Severance has been nominated for Best Acheivement in Production at the British Independent Film Awards which are due to be presented on 29th November at London's Hammersmith Palais. It was released eariler this year and received great reviews.

Manx Films showing at AFM - submitted 7th November 2006

Four Manx films are showing at the American Film Market which is taking place in Los Angeles this week. Fade to Black, Big Nothing, Sparkle and The Deaths of Ian are all screening during the Market which is one of the biggest film events in America and attracts more than 8,000 industry leaders.

Downturn in UK Film Production Impacts on Island - submitted 9th October 2006

Autumn has got off to a quieter start than usual in terms of on-Island film production activity this year. Changes in the relevant UK tax relief legislation, shortly to be ratified by the European Union, have left a number of productions, both on and off-Island, awaiting news of the revised structure before filming can commence. For the full press release click here .

Things to do Before You're 30 released on DVD - submitted 18th September 2006

The British comedy drama Things to do Before You're 30 is released on DVD today. Starring Billie Piper, Dougray Scott, Emilia Fox and Jimi Mistrey, it was filmed on the Island in 2003.

The Dark is released on DVD - submitted 12th September 2006

Supernatural thriller The Dark is released on DVD today. Starring Sean Bean and Maria Bello, the film was shot in the Island in 2004 and tells the story of a bereaved mother who becomes convinced that her lost daughter is trying to communicate from beyond the grave. The film was described by the Guardian as 'An atmospheric and rather creepy supernatural thriller'

Manx-funded films screen at Toronto - submitted 12th September 2006

Both Christopher Smith's Severance and Geoffrey Sax's Stormbreaker are screening at the Toronto International Film Festival which runs from the 7th to the 16th September . Both recently released in the UK, Stormbreaker has been a Summer mainstream release at the box office whilst Severance, a fresh new British comedy-horror written by Christopher Smith and James Moran has received great reviews and has grossed £1.3 million in its first ten days of release in the UK. For more information about the Toronto International Film Festival please visit their website.

Lassie gets US Release - submitted 4th September 2006

Filmed in the Island last year, Lassie opened in the US last Friday (1st September) after its New York premiere was held a week earlier, where Lassie gave away 'pawtographs'. The Film, which stars Samantha Morton and Peter O'Toole was also commended by the New York Times who described it as 'beautifully orchestrated' and described the locations used as 'breathtaking'. Lassie is still available to buy on DVD in the UK.

Severance cuts it with critics - submitted 23rd August 2006

The latest Isle of Man Film to be released has received great reviews from film critics. Due to be released this Friday (25th August) in both the UK and the Isle of Man, Severance – described as ‘The Office meets Deliverance’, first started receiving attention at the Cannes Film Festival. Since then, positive reviews have been circulating on the Internet and more recently James King, the Radio 1 Film critic described the film as ‘Absolutely Brilliant – Scary and Hilarious’ whilst Lad’s Mag Loaded said it was ‘The best British horror-comedy you’ll see this year’. The film is further commended by the BBC who describe it as ‘a slick mix of satire and splatter’ whilst Total Film carried a 4 page feature on the film in their September issue resulting in a 4 star review with the quote ‘A rare horror-comedy, one that’s scary, brutally funny and frequently brilliant’.

Severance will be showing at The Broadway Cinema from Friday 25th.

Mistress of Spices to be released on DVD - submitted 9 August 2006

Filmed in the Island last year, Mistress of Spices is released on DVD in the UK on the 14th August. Starring Aishwarya Rai and Dylan McDermott, the film is based on the popular book by Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni. Written by Gurinda Chadha and directed by Paul Mayeda Berges - who collaborated on BEND IT LIKE BECKHAM and BRIDE & PREJUDICE--the film focuses on how much immigrants should try to assimilate into a new country and how much of their traditions they should keep.

Colour Me Kubrick showing at the Edinburgh International Film Festival - submitted 7 August 2006

Colour Me Kubrick, shot in the Island in 2004, has been selected for this year's Edinburgh International Film Festival which celebrates its 60th birthday from 14 to 27 August. The film stars John Malkovich as Alan Conway, a British conman who masqueraded as reclusive director Stanley Kubrick in the 1990s. For more information, please visit the EIFF website.

Our next Production - submitted 31 July 2006

After a busy week following the successful release of Stormbreaker, Isle of Man Film is expecting its next Production, Deaths of Ian to arrive on the Island on 31st July. Starring Christina Cole (‘Casino Royale’, ‘Hex’) and Mike Vogel (‘Poseidon’, ‘The Texas Chainsaw Massacre’) the film tells the story of an all-American guy who is murdered each day by horrifying pursuers, only to wake up in slightly different lives to experience the terror of being murdered again.

London Premiere goes down a Storm - submitted 18 July 2006

Renowned film stars paid tribute to the Island at the premiere of Island-made movie Stormbreaker, held in the baking heat of Leicester Square in London on Monday night. Ewan McGregor, Bill Nighy, Alicia Silverstone, Sophie Okenodo and the star of the film Alex Pettyfer were amongst those walking the red carpet to promote what is expected to be the biggest British movie of the summer.

British Actor Bill Nighy (Love Actually, Pirates of the Caribbean) who plays MI6 agent, Alan Blunt in the film said ‘I’ve been to the Island lots of times on many different films and Thank God for the Isle of Man. Virtually all British films under a certain budget would not get made if it was not for the Isle of Man and Isle of Man Film. I like [the Island] very much’.

Bill also praised the Island in an interview with The Guardian at the weekend in which he spoke about his time on the Island whilst filming Stormbreaker ‘I’m always very happy to be [on the Island]. It’s a sort of cross between Cornwall and Ireland’

American Actress Alicia Silverstone (Clueless, Batman & Robin) who plays nanny Jack Starbright remarked ‘We had so much fun, it was ridiculous, it wasn’t really a job. Missi Pyle and I would ride our bikes everywhere and we went to a lovely vegetarian restaurant and really good health store. It was very nice’

The film is based on the Alex Rider series written by Anthony Horowitz, who also wrote the screenplay for the film. He said ‘The Isle of Man is a great film location, I mean it’s everything, England, France Germany...it’s a chameleon of an Island. The great chase scene that opens the film, I’m not sure we could have shot that anywhere else’

Director Geoff Sax praised Isle of Man Film for their help with the film, in particular Hilary Dugdale and Steve Christian who he described as ‘very film savvy and delightful to work with’ He continued ‘If it was not for Isle of Man Film, the British movie industry would not be able to produce the kind of films it does’

CLICK HERE TO SEE THE FOOTAGE OF THE PREMIERE (for Windows) Click here for Macs.

Stormbreaker's premiere and release date - submitted 13 July 2006

Our biggest film to date is due for nationwide release on the 21st July following its London Premiere on the 17th July. There has already been plenty of publicity surrounding the film, which is based on Anthony Horowitz's Alex Rider series. The film will also have a local premiere on the 23rd July, which has been arranged by the Isle of Man Children's Centre and will include some of the key cast and Anthony Horowitz himself. Bill Nighy will also be attending.

Anthony Horowitz will also be signing copies of his books at Ottakar's in Douglas on the 23rd July at 2pm.

Work for Isle of Man Film! - submitted 28 June 2006

We are looking for a temporary member of staff for a year's contract to work in the busy office at Isle of Man Film. Previous experience in Customer Service and working in the office environment is essential. You must be reliable and resilient as the role is admin based and will involve filing, scanning and answering telephone calls. If you are interested, please contact Kate at Miracles on 620297.

Keeping Mum to be shown on Sky Box Office - submitted 7 June 2006

From 14th June, Keeping Mum will be showing on Sky Box Office. It will be shown at various times and has a 15 rating. It is also available to buy on DVD.

Piccadilly Jim released on DVD - submitted 25 May 2006

Piccadilly Jim has been released in the UK on DVD. Filmed on the Island in 2003, it stars Sam Rockwell, Brenda Blethyn and Tom Wilkinson. It is based on the book of the same name by P G Wodehouse.

Things to do Before You're 30 released in the UK - submitted 17 May 2006

Things to do Before You're 30 is due to be released in the UK on 2nd June. It was filmed on the Island in 2003 and stars Billie Piper, Dougray Scott, Jimi Mistrey and Emilia Fox. It will be shown at The Broadway Cinema, Douglas from 23rd June.

The Libertine out on DVD - submitted 20th April 2006

The Libertine, starring Johnny Depp and Rosamund Pike, is due to be released on DVD on the 24th April. The film received good reviews with Channel 4 describing it as 'a beautifully grimy period film'.

Mistress of Spices released in the UK - submitted 20th April 2006

Mistress of Spices, a fairytale about an Indian woman and her magical spice shop and filmed in the Island in 2005, is due to be released in Cinemas this Friday (21st April).

Our next film - submitted 20th April 2006

Production continues to be busy on the Island with our next film, The Walker due to start filming today. The Walker is produced by Deepak Nayar who has already filmed Mistress of Spices (which is due to be released on 21st April) and The Thread on the Island. It is to be directed by Paul Schrader (‘Taxi Driver’) and stars Woody Harrelson (‘Cheers’, ‘Indecent Proposal’), Island regular Kristin Scott Thomas (‘Keeping Mum’, ‘The English Patient), Lauren Bacall (‘The Big Sleep’, ‘Dogville’), Ned Beatty (‘Deliverance’, ‘Superman’), Moritz Bleibtreu (‘Munich’), Willem Dafoe (‘Spiderman’, ‘Body of Evidence’) and Lily Tomlin (‘The West Wing’, ‘Tea with Mussolini’).

Filming on The Walker has already taken place in London and cast and crew will be on the Island until 5th May when they will leave to shoot in Washington DC.

Stars pay tribute to their time on the Island - submitted 20th April 2006

Whilst cast and crew on Miss Potter head to the UK to complete their shoot, Stars Renee Zellweger and Ewan McGregor pay tribute to their time on the Island. See the full press release here.

Sparkle leaves the Island - submitted 20th April 2006

Sparkle has also left the Island to shoot in Liverpool. Starring Bob Hoskins, Stockard Channing and Shaun Evans, Sparkle is a comedy from acclaimed writing and directing team Neil Hunter and Tom Hunsinger and is about an opportunistic young Liverpudlian who comes to London and decides to sleep his way to the top

The Dark is released in UK cinemas - submitted 4th April 2006

The Dark is due for UK release this Friday, 7th April. Starring Sean Bean and Maria Bello, the supernatural horror was filmed on the Island in 2004. A trailer for the film can be found at http://www.thedark.film.de/

Lassie out on DVD - submitted 4th April 2006

Lassie, filmed on the Island last year, is due out on DVD this Friday 7th April. The film was released last year with Screen International describing it as 'Hansomely crafted, full of lively performances from both animals and humans, and with far more satirical bite than might have been expected'.

Stormbreaker trailer online - submitted 17 March 2006

The latest release of the Stormbreaker trailer is now on their website http://stormbreaker.com/ . It features some good shots of the Island, particularly the action sequence that was filmed in Port Erin. The film is due for release on 21st July and was filmed on the Island last year.

Keeping Mum released on DVD - submitted 17 March 2006

Keeping Mum is due for release on DVD on Monday 20th March. Filmed in 2005, the film received great reviews with the BBC describing it as ‘Waking Ned meets Serial Mom in the genial and genuinely funny British black comedy’.

Our new films - submitted 17 March 2006

Miss Potter and Sparkle begin their shoot on the Island next week. Miss Potter is the much talked about story of Beatrix Potter and stars Renee Zellweger (Bridget Jones’s Diary, Cold Mountain), Ewan McGregor (Star Wars, Moulin Rouge) and Emily Watson (Punch Drunk Love, Gosford Park). Filming has already taken place in London and cast and crew are coming to the Island to film on the 22nd March.

Meanwhile, our second film, Sparkle is due on the Island on the 21st March and stars Bob Hoskins(Mrs Henderson Presents, Vanity Fair), Stockard Channing (Grease, The West Wing), Shaun Evans (Boys from County Clare, The Virgin Queen) Anthony Head (Little Britain, Buffy the Vampire Slayer) Amanda Ryan (The Forsyte Saga, Murphy’s Law) and Leslie Manville (Poirot, Vera Drake). It is being produced by Martin Pope and Michael Rose who have already produced Lawless Heart and The Heart of Me on the Island. It is to be directed by Lawless Heart Directors Neil Hunter and Tom Hunsinger.

Crew and Facilities Search goes live - submitted 15 February 2006

Isle of Man Film are pleased to announce the launch of their online Crew and Facilities search. The online Directory can be used to search by primary area of expertise or by name to help locate local crew and facilities. If you would like to appear in our Directory, please see our FAQs page.

Further Miss Potter details announced - submitted 2 February 2006

In addition to Oscar winning actress Renee Zellweger, both Ewan McGregor and Emily Watson are to appear in Miss Potter, due to the Island in March. Watson will play Millie, the sister of McGregor's character, Norman Warne, Potter's publisher and lover. The film, which marks Director Chris Noonan's first feature since his Oscar-nominated work on Babe in 1995, is being produced by Phoenix Pictures alongside David Kirschner Productions.

Kristen Scott-Thomas nominated for Award - submitted 6th January 2006

Kristen Scott-Thomas has been nominated for Best British Actress at this year's Film Critic Awards for her role in Keeping Mum. The 26th Awards of the London Film Critics' Circle are being held in aid of the NSPCC on February 8. The awards are voted for by over 100 members of the Critics Circle who write for newspapers and magazines in the UK.

The Libertine wins a BIFA award - submitted 5th December 2005

Rosamund Pike won the award for Best Performance by a Supporting Actress in a British Independent Film for her role as Elizabeth Malet in The Libertine. The awards were held last week in London.

Our next film - submitted 25th November 2005

The next film due to film on the Island is entitled Big Nothing. It stars David Schwimmer (best known for his role as Ross in Friends), Simon Pegg ("Spaced" and "Shaun of the Dead") Mimi Rogers ("Lost in Space" and "Austin Powers") and Natascha McElhone ("The Truman Show"). It's due on the Island on the 4th December and will finish around the 22nd.

Miss Potter to be filmed on Island next year - submitted 18th November 2005

We are delighted to announce that that terms have been agreed to film Miss Potter in the Isle Of Man next Spring. The film tells the story of the life of Beatrix Potter, the author of children’s classics such as The Tale of Peter Rabbit and The Tale of Miss Tiggy-Winkle. Starring Renee Zellweger (Bridget Jones’ Diary, Cold Mountain, Cinderella Man), the US$25m film is anticipated to be one of Britain’s biggest independent films of 2006. Principal photography is due to start in March 2006.

Quest III to be repeated on ITV - submitted 18th November 2005

Quest III, directed by and starring David Jason is due to be repeated tonight on ITV at 9pm. Quest III is the follow up drama to Quest II and follows the stories of Dave, Ronno and Charlie during their teenage years as they pay a nostalgic visit to their favourite coffee bar

The Libertine, Keeping Mum and Lassie to get local premiere - submitted 18th November 2005

Three of our movies are due to get their local premieres on the Island. The Libertine (starring Johnny Depp) is released today and has already attracted a significant amount of publicity with eight British Independent Film Award nomiations already. Johnny Depp plays John Wilmot, the Earl of Rochester, who received posthumous acclaim after living a drunken and debauched life. All Isle of Man filming took place within Island Studios in April last year. Approximately 300 local extras took part in the film, working alongside cast members Johnny Depp, Samantha Morton and John Malkovich.

The second of the three films to screen locally is Keeping Mum, starring Rowan Atkinson, Dame Maggie Smith, Patrick Swayze and Kristin Scott-Thomas. The plot revolves around the life of Reverend Walter Goodman (Rowan Atkinson) who is determined to write the perfect sermon but he comically and frustratingly ignores his family in the process until Grace Hawkins (Dame Maggie Smith) arrives to put everything in order in her own unorthodox fashion. The comedy drama will be screening at the Broadway from December 2nd.

Finally, Lassie starring Peter O’Toole and Samantha Morton, will be released on 16th December in time for the Christmas market. Based on the original story, Lassie is a wonderful family film which features an extensive amount of the beautiful Manx Countryside. For further information on booking tickets please contact the Broadway Cinema Box Office on 694555.

On A Clear Day wins 2 BAFTA Awards - submitted 17th November 2005

On A Clear Day has won 2 of the 3 Scottish BAFTA awards that it was nominated for including Best Film. Alex Rose also won the Best Screenplay award. The film has received some excellent reviews, with Empire magazine describing it as 'an inspiring, uplifting tale'. On A Clear Day is nominated for 3 Scottish BAFTA Awards - submitted 4th November 2005 Gaby Dellal's On A Clear Day has received 3 nominations at this year's Scottish BAFTA Awards, to be held in Glasgow on November 13th. Gaby is up for Best Director, whilst Screenwriter Alex Rose has been nominated for Best Screenplay. On A Clear Day is also up for Best Film. For further information on the awards, please visit BAFTA Scotland's website.

The Libertine is nominated for 8 BIFA Awards - submitted 27th November 2005

The Libertine, filmed on the Island in April 2004, has been nominated for 8 British Independent Film Awards (BIFA), with Johnny Depp competing for the best actor prize. BIFA 2005 will take place on Wednesday November 30th at The Hammersmith Palais, London.

The Libertine is based around the life of the 17th Century poet John Wilmot (played by Johnny Depp), who received posthumous acclaim after living a debauched life. The film was shot in Island Studios, Ramsey after the UK Government closed its tax break and the film nearly cancelled before Isle of Man Film stepped in to fund production. It is due for UK release on 18th November.

Full details of the nominations for The Libertine follow:

Best British Independent Film – The Libertine

Best Director of a British Independent Film – Laurence Dunmore

Best Performance by a Supporting Actor or Actress in a British Independent Film – Rosamund Pike and Tom Hollander

Best Performance by an Actor in a British Independent Film – Johnny Depp

Best Technical Achievement – Ben van Os (Production Designer)

Most Promising Newcomer – Rupert Friend

The Douglas Hickox Award – Laurence Dunmore (Gaby Dellal is also nominated for this award for On A Clear Day)

For further information on the film, please see the British Independent Film Awards website

On A Clear Day gets local premiere - submitted 3rd October 2005

Manx Movie, On A Clear Day will be screening at The Broadway Cinema from 7th October. It was released in the UK on 2nd September and has so far attracted good reviews, with Empire Magazine describing it as ‘an inspiring uplifting tale’ and rating it with 4 stars. For booking details, please contact the Broadway Box Office directly on 694555.

Manx Films nominated for the Irish Film and Television Awards - submitted 3rd October 2005

Three of our films, Boy Eats Girl , The Boys and Girl from County Clare and On A Clear Day have been nominated in various categories for the Irish Film and Television Awards, due to be held on 5th November 2005.

Boy Eats Girl is up for Best Production Design (Anna Rackard), Best Costumer Design (Susan Scott), Best Supporting Actor Film (Tadgh Murphy) and Best Supporting Actress Film (Deidra O'Kane). Meanwhile, The Boys and Girl from County Clare is up for Best Music for Film (Fiachra Trench), Best Actress Film (Andrea Corr) and Best Supporting Actress Film (Charlotte Bradley). On A Clear Day has one nomination in the Best Supporting Actor Category (Sean McGinley). For further information, please see the Irish Film and Television Awards website.

The Thread - our next film - submitted 15 September 2005

Whilst filming on Fade to Black is coming to a close, preparations are being made for our next film, The Thread, due to start filming on the Island at the end of September. Deepak Nayar, who previously produced Bride and Prejudice and Bend it Like Beckham, is producing. The film is about a half-Indian Englishman who is haunted by a mysterious woman from his past who he doesn’t remember. Linus Roache, Saffron Burrows, and Andrea Corr star. Our last production produced by Deepak, Paul Mayeda Berges’ Mistress of Spices starring Aishwarya Rai and Dylan McDermott, premiered on September 11 at the Toronto International Film Festival.

ITV1 screens Marian, Again - submitted 30 August 2005

Marian, Again one of our TV productions shot on the Island in May is due to be shown on ITV1 on Monday 5th and Tuesday 6th September 2005 at 9pm as a two-part series.

Release dates - submitted 22 August 2005

Two of our films are being released in September. On A Clear Day is due for UK release on 2nd September whilst Revolver is being released on 22nd September.

Fade to Black - our latest film - submitted 22 August 2005

Now that filming on Severance and Stormbreaker has finished on the Island, our next film Fade to Black has started shooting on the Island. The film is set in 1940's Italy and tells the story of Orson Welles following the break-up of his marriage to Rita Hayworth.

Severance - our latest film - submitted 13 July 2005

Severance has started production on the Island after filming the first half of their shoot in Hungary. The film tells the story of a group of colleagues whose team-building weekend goes horribly wrong.

On A Clear Day premiering at Edinburgh Film Festival - submitted 8 July 2005

On A Clear Day, which premiered at Sundance Film Festival earlier in the year is due to premiere at Edinburgh International Film Festival as part of a host of UK, International and World Premieres to grace this year’s festival which runs from the 17th - 28th August. The film, which also opened the 17th Galway Film Festival along with another Isle of Man Film production, Boy Eats Girl, is set in Scotland and tells the story of unemployed Frank who decides to combat depression by swimming the English Channel. For more information, please see the EIFF website.

Stormbreaker - cast announced - submitted 29 June 2005

Alex Pettyfer has landed the year's hottest role as Alex Rider in Stormbreaker. The action-adventure film’s stellar cast includes: Sarah Bolger, Damien Lewis, Ewan McGregor, Bill Nighy, Sophie Okenedo, Missi Pyle, Alicia Silverstone, Ashley Walters and Mickey Rourke. It is due to start shooting on the Island Sunday 3rd July. For further information, please see the press release.

Manx films showing on TV - submitted 25 May 2005

Four Manx films are showing on Sky over the course of the next month. Blackball is premiering on Friday 10th June at 8pm and Suzie Gold is premiering on Monday 13th June at 8pm on Sky Movies One. Meanwhile Five Children and IT and Churchill: The Hollywood Years are showing on Sky Box Office from 8th June.

Our recent productions - submitted 25 May 2005

Filming for Marion, Again is coming to a close whilst Lassie is due to commence filming on the Island on 17th June. The cast of Lassie has recently been announced with Peter O'Toole and Samantha Morton both starring in the Charles Sturridge movie. For further information, please see the press release. Meanwhile, pre-production is ongoing for Stormbreaker - our biggest budget production to date due to start filming on the Island in the Summer. Stormbreaker is the the eagerly-awaited big-screen debut of 14-year-old special agent Alex Rider, hero of Anthony Horowitz’s chart-topping series of novels about a reluctant teenage superspy. For further information please see our press release or the Alex Rider website.

Chromophobia selected for closing gala at Cannes - submitted 21 April 2005

Martha Fiennes’ film Chromophobia, shot on the Isle of Man in August and September last year, has been selected for the prestigious closing gala screening at this year’s Cannes Film Festival. Chromophobia is the only UK film to be selected by the Cannes selection committee for the 2005 Festival. Cannes selection traditionally features the work of classic filmmakers and it is therefore, a huge honour for an Isle of Man film to be selected against massive competition, not just from the UK but from worldwide submissions. For more information, please see the press release

Finley the Fire Engine - submitted 1 April 2005

As part of the continuing development of the Island’s film and media industry, a major pre-school animation series is currently being created at Balley Beg animation studios in Douglas. Balley Beg Studios is currently in production on 78 episodes of Finley the Fire Engine – a 3D computer animated television series to be broadcast throughout the world. The studio has employed world-class staff, mainly from Los Angeles, all of whom are well positioned to educate children both in the animation process and in relevant career prospects.

Balley Beg Studios hopes to run a competition for young children to create a “helpful truck” who will appear in a future episode of the series. Details should appear in the local media shortly.

The Heart of Me - submitted 7th March 2005

The Heart of Me is showing on BBC2 at 9.15pm on Saturday 12th March. It was filmed on the Island in 2001 and stars Helena Bonham Carter and Paul Bettany.

Owd Bob - submitted 24th February 2005

Owd Bob will be showing at Waterloo Methodist Church in Ramsey at 7.30pm, tomorrow night, 25th February 2005.

Our new films - submitted 16th February 2005

Mistress of Spices has just started filming at Island Studios and is being directed by Paul Berges and Gurinder Chadra, the directors of Bend it Like Beckham and Bride and Prejudice. It is based on the book by Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni of the same name.

Meanwhile, Keeping Mum is expected to start filming on the Island in early March and stars Rowan Atkinson, Maggie Smith and Patrick Swayze.

Sons and Lovers -submitted 26th January 2005

Sons and Lovers, the adaptation of the D H Lawrence novel of the same name, is showing on Sky Movies 1 at 4pm on Thursday 10th February and Sky Movies 2 on Friday 11th February at 5pm.

The Rotters' Club - submitted 24th January 2005

The Rotters’ Club, one of our productions filmed over the Summer, is to be screened on BBC2 this Wednesday 26th January at 9pm as the first of a three-part series. For further information, please visit BBCs Website

Best - submitted 10th January 2005

Best is showing on Sky Movies 9 on Tuesday 18th January at 8pm. For more information about the film please see our Past Productions page.