On this week’s episode of The Screen Podcast, the team delves into the appointment of Isabel Davis as the new head of the BFI Filmmaking Funds and what it means for the future of the UK independent film sector.

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First, Screen’s editor Matt Mueller checks in with senior UK and Ireland reporter Mona Tabbara, who spoke to producers this week to get their verdict on the appointment.

“There was a sense going into the recruitment process that producers wanted a fresh pair of eyes in the role. So someone who wasn’t in the boomerang of fund executive jobs, which does seem to be what Isabel is,” Tabbara said.

“But I think at the same time, we’re going to a period in which national lottery funding is under review by the UK government… it feels like there’s never been a more important time to have someone who does really understand the more political side of the job and why that’s important.”

Mueller is then joined by producer Nicky Bentham of Neon Films, who is also co-chair of Pact’s Film Producers’ Group, to discuss what potential changes Davis could bring in.

”It feels like maybe we’re at a time where there shouldn’t be such a clear and narrow definition of what a BFI film is,” Bentham said. “I think that making brilliant films that can compete on the world stage and that can find audiences wherever they may be probably needs to be a real priority.”

Finally, Wendy Mitchell speaks to producer and filmmaker Joy Gharoro-Akpojotor, who shares her thoughts on Davis’s international impact.

“I do want to have a clearer sense of how do we support filmmakers who want to make distinctively British films that can travel, but on the other hand, there’s this idea of we should be more international and look outside a bit more,” Gharoro-Akpojotor said. “I think there needs to be an adequate balance between the two.”

The Screen Podcast is produced by Ellie Calnan, with Wendy Mitchell serving as editorial director. New episodes every Thursday.

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