Just back from a trade visit to Canada, a country that has seen huge investment in the digital and interactive sectors over the last decade. I wanted to promote Screen WM's move into digital and to create new networks for regional digital companies. I was hugely impressed with how well the agencies are networked and coordinated in their approach from Telefilm Canada (the equivalent of UKFC but including digital), to Interactive Ontario and OMDC - they are all working together to support the sector.
A model that we have been developing here in the region, with Screen WM now strengthening our partnerships with AWM, Business Link, Arts Council and UKTI to ensure we have a joined-up regional offer to present on the international stage. Watch this space for more news on this....
My destination was Toronto, to coincide with the film festival... and what a city! The whole place was buzzing with excitement and there was a genuine effort to engage the pubic with the glitz and glamour of the event. I was lucky enough to see Slumdog Millionaire, the latest offering from Brit Director Danny Boyle, which is an amazingly original film set in Mumbai... a must-see when it's out in regional cinemas in the next few months.