Few would argue that the Highlands & Islands has punched above its weight when it comes to attracting filming projects. Despite being home to just over 400,000 inhabitants, a notable number of big budget films and movies have been made here, either in part or in whole. The past twelve calendar months alone have brought a blockbuster film, a primetime British soap, and an independent documentary by one of Europe’s best-known art house directors, to this beautiful land.   

When it comes to indigenous work (film and TV productions made by Highlands & Islands talent for international consumption), the track record is somewhat less stellar. The numbers of indigenous productions are low, with homegrown successes even more infrequent. While multi-million pound local features are unlikely to be a consistent part of the regional scene, there is scope for growth in producing more cost-effective works. For example, this year’s Sundance winner was the whimsical movie, Primer, made for a mere £3,800. Other films such as Pi (made on £32,000), The Blair Witch Project (£22,000), and El Mariachi (£3,800) also show that it is not impossible to have low budget productions that are both commercially and critically successful. Such productions would have to compete on thematic and presentational innovation. It is a steep challenge, but the rewards are thus exponentially high. Successful indie filmmakers often get multi-million dollar offers by the big studios to re-make their budget flick or direct a more mainstream blockbuster.

aimhi is keen to encourage the production of cost-effective features that aim to be both commercially and artistically viable. Towards this end, we welcome those with the interest and the talent for putting a good story on screen to get in touch with us to see what we can do together.