Two female filmmakers from Manchester and Newcastle have won this year’s Northern Docs’ Shorts Scheme for BBC Three.
They will receive funding and post production support to make their shorts for the channel.
Hannah Blackwell from Manchester is exploring why an increasing number of young women are joining the Northern car cruising scene, despite a recent fatality.
Danielle Giddins from Newcastle is filming alongside a young man who has a passion for prize-winning poultry.
“Having an opportunity to support Northern filmmakers in their journey to produce a first commission for a national broadcaster is incredible. We’re really excited to work with Hannah and Danielle over the next few months. Everyone has been inspired by their professionalism, creativity and commitment,” said Mike Todd, founder of Northern Docs.
“We want to thank everyone who put forward their best efforts. It was a tough decision and the process helped illustrate the depth of talent that exists in the North.”
The 10 minute films will get a budget of £10k from the BBC, with facilities provided by dock10.
Northern Docs and the BBC Three scheme is also being backed by the University of Bolton, which is providing a home for the project.
The final films were selected by commissioners from BBC Three and Factual Commissioning.
“The portrayal of regional voices both on and off screen is very important to the BBC and, as Factual Commissioning lead for the North, I am passionate about working with initiatives such as Northern Docs to spot and develop film-making talent in the region,” added Emily Smith, BBC’s commissioning editor for documentaries.
