Scotland presents new film strategy

Under the Skin filming in ScotlandA new three-year strategy on the future of film production in Scotland was published on 17 October by Creative Scotland.

The Film Strategy 2014-17 details priorities for the film sector over the next three years and explains how the organisation will work together with the sector and public partners.

The new plans identify the establishment of a sustainable film studio as one of the key priorities for Scotland's film industry. Furthermore, it sets out plans for the implementation of increased incentives for film and television production; greater support for writers and script development; and a commitment to Scotland's production community, in particular documentary-making and animation, through sourcing increased funding for production.

The strategy responds to the objectives and ambitions put forward in the Film Sector Review published back in January. It was developed in consultation with a wide range of individuals and organisations, spanning from film production to distribution and audience development, as well as from representative industry bodies.

Natalie Usher, director of film and media at Creative Scotland said: "This is an ambitious strategy for film in Scotland. It sets out our aim to make Scotland home to a vibrant, culturally diverse and commercially-competitive film sector.

"It is motivated by a shared ambition to see a growth in the number and diversity of films and filmmakers; to establish an enviable reputation for excellence in filmmaking and cement Scotland's position as a key destination for international productions."

She continued: "Our ambition is to generate the conditions necessary to position the film sector at the heart of Scotland's economic and cultural life. We will concentrate our efforts on the priorities outlined in the strategy over the next three years so that Scotland is better equipped to compete on an equal footing with other countries."

Scotland has been host to a range of productions in recent years. Its credit include Brad Pitt's World War Z (2013) which saw Glasgow doubling for Philadelphia and Under The Skin (2013, pictured), Jonathan Glazer's thriller starring Scarlett Johansson.

Shooting of the new feature film The Silent Storm (2014) saw a cast - being led by Andrea Riseborough (Shadowdancer, Oblivion) and Golden Globe and Emmy award winner Damian Lewis (Homeland, Keane) - move to the Isle of Mull.Â