Fort William’s Highland Cinema is offering Lochaber residents the chance to take their first steps into filmmaking as the very first partner organisation of Opening Shot, a brand-new Screen Scotland-funded project aimed at bringing opportunities to underrepresented communities.
Lochaber’s stunning scenery has featured in global film franchises in recent years, including Harry Potter and James Bond; however, there have been limited opportunities to develop filmmaking locally.
Four completely new filmmakers will be selected through the Highland Cinema partnership, each working to produce their own £5,000 short film alongside development support and mentorship over the coming months.
Delivered by Stornoway-based company Astar Media, the project forms part of the Screen Scotland Talent Builder Initiative, and those living in Lochaber with an interest in taking part will be able to find out more at an upcoming launch event.
The Highland Cinema has become a much-loved community hub in Fort William since opening in 2020, and has recently earned charitable status. However, this project marks the venue’s first foray into filmmaking outreach.
The Opening Shot Short Films strand will partner with three organisations in its first year, representing diverse communities across Scotland. Alongside Highland Cinema, Opening Shot will soon begin work with two other partner organisations.
Alison Piper, Programme Director of Opening Shot, said: “Opening Shot is designed to give new filmmakers the tools and guidance they need to bring their ideas to life. We hope to support underrepresented talent across Scotland, and Highland Cinema offered us a fantastic opportunity to kick-start this project.”
Hamish McIntyre, Highland Cinema Marketing Manager, said: “Partnering with Opening Shot lets us help foster local talent, and hopefully create a legacy for the Highland Cinema for years to come. We have excellent facilities and people from all over the region visit us; however, being able to offer development opportunities like this is so important for us as an organisation.”
Kieran Hannigan, Head of Scripted at Screen Scotland, said: “Opening Shot represents a vital next step in Screen Scotland’s Talent Builder initiative, developing new voices and building pathways for talent across the country. By working with trusted community partners like Highland Cinema, Opening Shot and Astar Media are helping to make filmmaking accessible.”
Find out more about the Highland Cinema project on their website and learn more about the Opening Shot project on their website.