Screen International, in association with Screen Scotland, is launching Spotlight on Scotland HODs, a new initiative platforming the talent behind the scenes on Scotland-based productions.
The inaugural programme will showcase 10 people based in Scotland who are working across film or television as either a cinematographer, an editor or a production designer. Applicants should have at least three feature film and/or high-end TV credits to date in their careers.
Applications are open from Monday 2 November 2026 and will close on Sunday 29 November 2026. Screen will curate the selection, which will be unveiled in the February 2027 editions of Screen International and Broadcast International and published online on 8 February. The reveal will be followed by an in-person event at the 2027 Glasgow Film Festival, which runs 24 February to 7 March 2027.
Applicants must be based in Scotland and will be asked to provide proof if necessary.
Spotlight on Scotland HODs continues Screen’s work of platforming talent in the film industry, following Stars of Tomorrow programmes in UK & Ireland, Spain and the MENA region, and its Rising Stars offshoots in Scotland and Ireland.
Earlier this year, Screen hosted its third Rising Stars Scotland showcase which featured 10 up-and-coming actors, writers, directors and producers. This year’s cohort included actor Connor Newall, filmmaker Louis Paxton and producer Shona Mackenzie.
Applications can be submitted via this online form.
Steven Little, Head of Production at Screen Scotland, said: “Scotland’s film and television crews have always had incredible strength and depth, and as more high-end productions choose to film in Scotland, our Heads of Department (HODs) are increasingly gaining opportunities to showcase their skills and creativity to global audiences.
“However, we recognise that taking the next step means competing on an international stage. By profiling Scotland’s established talent in Screen and Broadcast, we aim to raise the visibility of Scotland-based HODs and ensure their skills, experience and creative contribution are firmly in the minds of producers worldwide.
“For this inaugural edition, we are focusing on cinematographers, editors and production designers, with plans to rotate the spotlight across other departments in future editions.
“This initiative has been made possible through support from the BFI’s National Lottery Skills Clusters Fund, delivered in Scotland by Screen Scotland.”
Screen editor-in-chief Matt Mueller said: “We are delighted to be partnering on this showcase of Scotland-based HODs with Screen Scotland, and look forward to curating the inaugural selection of 10 cinematographers, editors and production designers.”
Broadcast editor-in-chief Chris Curtis said: “It’s a pleasure to be working with Screen Scotland and our colleagues at Screen International to spotlight the very best of Scottish talent across these three areas. The country has always been a hotbed of creative talent and this project will draw attention to some best-in-class individuals.”
More information
Image credit: BTS on An t-Eilean / The Island, courtesy of Black Camel Pictures / BBC ALBA / John Murdo MacAulay