THE next Ridley and Tony Scotts are sought to take part in an innovative project which seeks to transform the region's film industry.

DigitalCity’s Film Business Bootcamp, a partnership initiative between DigitalCity Business and Newcastle’s Vita Nova Films is recruiting aspiring filmmakers, directors and producers who haven’t made their first movie but have the ability to create a feature film.

It is aimed at recent university or film school graduates and professionals already working as freelancers in the film and advertising industries.

Vita Nova Senior producer and managing director Steve Bowden said: “Together we recognised there is an abundance of aspiring filmmakers but an absence of skilled producers and film production companies.

“We’ve decided to address this by challenging filmmakers to take part in the Film Business Bootcamp – and compete for the chance to pitch to key players in the British Film Industry.”

The bootcamp is designed to help filmmakers define and refine their idea and increase the likelihood of their project receiving development and/or production funding, and ultimately being produced.

Bowden added: “This bootcamp will uncover the brightest talents in the region with the ultimate aim of helping them to produce their own feature films. It is an amazing opportunity for anyone with an idea for a feature film, who wants to move on from short filmmaking, to equip them with the skills and business acumen they need to succeed.”

Mark Elliott, DigitalCity Business’s chief executive, said: “Up to now we’ve been concentrating on digital technology. Without loosening our grip there, we’re now opening up the digital creative front.

“For the filmmakers who are successful this is a once-in- a-lifetime opportunity.”