Ensuring strong visibility for UK independent productions at the Cannes Marché du Film, Great 8 is backed by the UK’s three leading film financiers (the BFI, BBC Films and Film4), the British Council and the UK government’s own GREAT campaign. At a private reception on Tuesday 14 May at the Hôtel Gray d’Albion, a selection of footage from eight films by up-and-coming British directors will be showcased to industry heavyweights and potential buyers. Past attendees have included Apple and Sony Pictures, along with French-based The Jokers and the Netherlands’ Cherry Pickers. 

Standout titles this year include Nick Rowland’s Irish crime-thriller Calm With Horses [+leggi anche:
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intervista: William Oldroyd
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intervista: Simon Bird
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Another significant entry is Claire Oakley’s psychological drama Make Up [+leggi anche:
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intervista: Rungano Nyoni
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intervista: Francis Lee
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intervista: Rose Glass
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The line-up is completed by Lynn + Lucy [+leggi anche:
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intervista: Fyzal Boulifa
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intervista: Cathy Brady
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The British Council’s director of film, Briony Hanson, said regarding the announcement: “There is a very broad range of voices on show here from a diverse group of filmmakers, and I think the selection shifts the boundaries of what UK film looks like.” 

Notable movies showcased at earlier editions of Great 8 include Michael Pearce’s BAFTA-winning, Jersey-set thriller Beast [+leggi anche:
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intervista: Michael Pearce
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