The Northern Lights FilmFestival's 2006 industry summit will run Nov 17-18 in Newcastle Upon Tyne's Tyneside Cinema.

Highlights of the industryprogramme will include a talk about the ups and downs of the business fromdirector Nicolas Winding Refn, who will also screen his film The Gambler.

Other panels will offerpitching advice, explore opportunites with new low-budget funding schemes, presenta case study of award-winning UK thriller LondonTo Brighton, and delve into issues about co-productions and vying fordistributor attention.

In addition, shortlistedfilm-makers will meet with industry mentors before pitching to a professionalpanel in the hopes of winning the Northern Lights Film Festival Pitch Award andits cash prize of £1000. Other pitches can take place during speed meetings.

The festival is funded by NewcastleCity Council, Gateshead Council, Arts Council England North East, Northern Filmand Media, UK Film Council, ONE, Northern Rock Foundation and Wansbeck Council; Screen International is a media sponsor.