FilmFour has struck a first look deal with Tubedale Films the production company of UK actor David Morrissey, former PolyGram Film International executive Carl Clifton and Morrissey's brother, Paul.

The writer Esther Freud is also a partner in the company along with businessman Stuart Hatwell. David Morrissey, whose acting credits include Captain Corelli's Mandolin and Hilary And Jackie, is to direct at least two projects after recently completing BBC1 drama Sweet Revenge.

"A hugely talented actor-director in David, Carl's immense industry experience and understanding of FilmFour's ambitions- a winning combination," said FilmFour chief executive Paul Webster. " We're very excited about future collaborations with this impressive team".

"Working with people you respect is great; working with people you respect and really like as well is even better," said Morrissey and Clifton, who last year spent six months as FilmFour's acting director of sales.

Other FilmFour first look deals include John McKay and Lee Thomas' Pipedream Pictures, Andrea Calderwood's Slate Films and New York based Hart Sharp Entertainment.