James Bond producer Barbara Broccoli to Cast `Goldeneye` over UK`s Young Filmmakers

Barbara Broccoli, producer of the James Bond films, has been appointed Chair of First Light, the UK Film Council`s filmmaking initiative for young people it was announced today, reports The British Film Council.

A number of leading names from the worlds of film, television and education have also joined the First Light Board.

Barbara Broccoli, of EON Productions, produced the Bond hits GoldenEye, Tomorrow Never Dies, The World Is Not Enough and Die Another Day with Michael G. Wilson. They are currently working on the 21st film in the franchise.

First Light is funded with National Lottery money from the UK Film Council, and gives young people between the ages of five and 18 the opportunity to try filmmaking for themselves. They make digital short films under the guidance of professional filmmakers and in association with youth agencies, schools, colleges, production companies and film clubs throughout the UK.

Budding filmmakers learn skills such as writing, acting, directing, lighting, editing and exhibiting, and at the same time build on their self-confidence, teamwork and communication skills.

To date the scheme has enabled more than 7,000 young people to make more than 450 films, covering a myriad of topics and styles, ranging from dramas and documentaries to thrillers and comedies. Many of the films have been screened at film festivals across the world. The finest films produced by the initiative are acclaimed at the annual First Light Film Awards ceremony, a national event held in London.

Barbara Broccoli will take a leading role in trying to bring the worlds of filmmaking and education closer together through the First Light scheme. She will help develop stronger links with professional filmmakers and key figures within creative education.

Barbara said, "I am delighted to have become part of First Light`s wonderful success story. It has been quickly recognised as the best organisation to help young people experience a first taste of filmmaking. I plan to support the excellent management team at First Light in taking this initiative to the next level.

"The need to forge strong links between First Light and the best filmmaking professionals in the industry is paramount. This will contribute to improving the already remarkably high standard of First Light filmmaking."

Jonnie Turpie, outgoing First Light Chair, said, "Barbara`s enthusiasm will help to propel First Light and the nations` aspiring filmmakers to big screen triumph."

Catherine O`Shea, First Light Director, said, "We are extremely pleased that Barbara has agreed to be part of First Light`s exciting future. She was quick to grasp the First Light ethos, and acknowledges our vital role in helping improve young people`s media literacy skills. I`m looking forward to working with her and our new Board members to develop the initiative further."

John Woodward, Chief Executive Officer of the UK Film Council said, "First Light opens up the world of film to young people. Barbara`s appointment is brilliant news."

Also joining the First Light Board are John Newbigin (Head of Corporate Relations at Channel 4), Dr Douglas Bourn (Director of the DEA - Development Education Association), Andrew Chowns (Chief Executive of the Producers Rights Agency - a partnership between ITV producers and Pact), Alby James (Head of Screenwriting at Northern Film School, Leeds Metropolitan University) and Margaret Taylor (the Managing Director of UGC Cinemas).

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