Premieres for new movie-makers

5:07pm Wednesday 6th June 2007

Two short films produced by new film-makers in the Bradford district are premiered tomorrow.

Former star of Coronation Street and Dinnerladies Shobna Gulati will be at the screenings of the films made as part of Bradford-based project Global Stories.

Long Walk was written by Tahir Nazir, 39, of Thornbury and produced by Mark O'Shea, 36, of Great Horton.

Tahir aimed to highlight some of Bradford's beauty spots, including Lister Park, where the film is set. "This has been a great opportunity to see my writing come to life, working with the Global Stories team," he said.

Mark, who graduated from Bradford University with a degree in electronic imaging and media communications, said: "I've always wanted to work in television and film and, with the experience gained on this production, it will help add to my skills portfolio."

Bradford freelance producer and scriptwriter Prakash Patel's film is It's My Party. "This scheme has been an eye-opener," said Prakash.

Global Stories, launched this year, sought new talent - writers, directors, producers, camera operators, sound recordists, editors and production co-ordinators - in the region. Two production teams were formed, each producing a film in just eight days.

The scheme, supported by Equal and Screen Yorkshire in partnership with Bradford University, gave on-the-job training from professionals and experts from the university's School of Informatics.

Ali Rashid, director of innovation and enterprise at the School of Informatics, who also runs television company Real Life, said: "It's been an adventure and a fantastic opportunity for the film-makers.

"They each have a calling card when looking for other opportunities. For many it's the first time they've worked with professionals from the industry and I'm sure the experience will inspire them to earn a place on bigger projects."

Long Walk and It's My Party will be premiered at the Cubby Broccoli cinema, the National Media Museum, at 6pm tomorrow in front of an invited audience.