T H E
I C O
KEEPING INDEPENDENT CINEMA THRIVING A number of smaller arts bodies punch well above their weight — the Independent Cinema Office to name but one. As it turns 15, Duncan Carson explains the work of this champion for independents.
ITH A MISSION TO “develop
Backed by the BFI
an open, challenging and
Historically, the BFI had been central to the establishment
thriving film sector”, the
of what were once termed ‘Regional Film Theatres’ by
Independent Cinema Office
funding new builds and giving annual financial assistance.
(ICO) supports independent
With the advent of the UK Film Council however, the
cinemas of all forms in the
funding landscape changed as well as priorities in cultural
UK. We want everyone to
activity. There were many venues which served local
have access to cinema that
communities and promoted independent and world
nourishes the soul and changes lives. Founded in 2003 by
cinema who had no formal relationship with any funding
Catharine Des Forges, who is still the director, the ICO’s
body or public agency. The ICO seeks to support these
vision is for all in the UK to have access to life-changing
venues, and they are supported by the BFI to do so.
cinema. This vision grew so that the ICO could support the
At the same time, there was no training or professional
skills of the those who work in these venues (via training
development available for those employed in the cultural
and professional development). We increase access to films
cinema exhibition sector, no recognised entry route for
available (via distribution and Screening Days projects) and
individuals, no single information source for areas as diverse
ensure cinemas have the best advice and information.
as print availability, distributors, rights holders for films or
7 0
>
1 2 / 1 8
www.cinematech.today
Published on Nov 28, 2018