EM Media has a bold brief - to support the development of the film and media industry in the East Midlands. Formed in 2002, the last 12 months have been the most productive in its short history. Later this year, three films will be released that have the real chance of crossing over and becoming major cinema successes, not just cult classics. This Is England, Magicians and Control have all been part-filmed in Nottinghamshire. It's brought more than nine million pounds to the region. A good yearDebbie Williams is Chief Executive for EM Media. "I think we see it as a culmination of what we've been working towards so far. "What gives us our greatest pleasure is seeing how talent in the region has progressed from where it was a year or two ago." Building on the reputation"We've got a portfolio of product that shows we're distinctive and edgy," says Debbie. "We haven't got a portfolio where every film is the same. Each one is different with different qualities and messages which will sell internationally." This Is EnglandDue for release on April 27, 2007, This Is England is Shane Meadows latest film. It's already picked up a host of awards and Debbie Williams is naturally proud of it. "I would say...this is a culmination of his previous films. This is an incredibly good film, it's very maturely handled. It gives the audience a positive feeling." MagiciansStarring Mitchell and Webb, of Peep Show fame, the theatre scenes for the comedy movie, Magicians, were filmed at the Theatre Royal in Nottingham with a theatre-full of local extras. "There is burgeoning comedy talent in this region. Have another look in a year or two and see the regional talent that's come through." Debbie says there's a treat in store for local film lovers. "If you're from Nottinghamshire, seeing places you know on the big screen is a big deal. I think people should be really proud." Control | | 'Control' poster |
You'll also see many familiar locations in the film that focuses on the life of Joy Division singer, Ian Curtis. "Rock City, the former Carlton studios... A lot of the gigs were filmed at the Marcus Garvey centre." The futureEM Media is branching out into the world of computer games. But movies will remain a focal point with more set to be filmed in Nottinghamshire over the coming months. Debbie says: "You'll see us investing in three or four films in 2007 which will further demonstrate the depth of our portfolio." | 
