Two high-profile figures have been confirmed to speak at BVE 2015, which arrives at ExCeL, London, on 24 to 26 February. American director Catherine Hardwicke (pictured) will present a keynote session on Tuesday 24 February, followed on 25 February by Richard Ayoade, comedian, actor, director and writer, who will also take part in a session.
Hardwicke, who directed Twilight, Thirteen and Red Riding Hood will discuss her experiences of shooting her latest feature, Miss You Already, in the UK. Director’s Cut: Finding Inspiration in Britain, will take place at 5:15pm on the first day of the show.
The session will examine the value that the UK offers as a production hub for a global film industry and how Miss You Already – scheduled for release this year – reflects the growing multinational nature of British cinema. The British/American cast includes Drew Barrymore, Toni Collette and Dominic Cooper, in a romantic comedy by Brit screenwriter Morwenna Banks.
The discussion will also reveal insights into Hardwicke’s experiences as a woman in a global industry, in her varied film career as a director, production designer, producer and writer.
In Conversation with Richard Ayoade will take place in BVE’s 4K Theatre at 5pm, with an interview led by writer, actor and performer Adam Buxton. Ayoade is known for appearances on comedy shows including The IT Crowd and The Mighty Boosh, and has gone on to direct and write feature films The Double and the award-winning Submarine. He has also directed music videos for bands including Arctic Monkeys, Vampire Weekend and Kasabian, and he presents the Channel 4 TV show Gadget Man. The BVE session will take Ayoade back through his career, examining his experiences and the challenges he has faced in the industry.
Alison Willis, event director, said, “We’re thrilled to have Richard join us at BVE. Though he is famously self-deprecating, his experiences on both sides of the camera will offer visitors a great deal of insight and inspiration and, with Adam’s guidance, doubtless some moments of levity!”
BVE takes place from 24 – 26 February and features over 120 hours of free sessions from the cream of British broadcast and film industry talent, covering all aspects of the industry from commissioning to distribution innovations. Over 250 exhibitors are expected at the event, which also offers free training sessions and networking opportunities. The full seminar programme is available online, and registration is open now.
