The latest edition of Check Book, the British Film Commission's Guide to Production in the UK was launched in London last December.
The previous three editions have met with outstanding success within the international film making community with the second and third editions both named 'Best Production Guide' by the Association of Film Commissions International.
The excellence of British production expertise is acknowledged in the forewords to Check Book 4 contributed by Steven Spielberg and George Lucas.
"There's a new resurgence of film-making in Britain, and I'm thrilled to have been part of it again with 'Saving Private Ryan'," writes Spielberg. "I've been here for so many of my films that the British film industry has become part of my extended production family, and I always look forward to returning. You have a marvellous tradition of creativity and craftsmanship, but it needs a constant flow of film-making to keep it alive. Fortunately, new opportunities are being created for young people which can sustain a legacy that has kept Britain in the forefront of film-making for most of this century. I hope many film-makers will take advantage of Britain's experienced talent and new talent as we head into the industry's next millennium."
"The British film industry has played a significant role in the history of Lucasfilm,' says George Lucas. "A long-standing tradition began back in the 70s with 'Star Wars' and continued on into the 80s with 'Indiana Jones' and the 90s with 'The Young Indiana Jones Chronicles'. Returning to the UK for the filming of 'Star Wars: Episode 1', the latest instalment of the saga, was never a question. It has been a privilege to work with the British crews for 28 years on ten films. Their extraordinary professionalism, expertise and commitment to the creative and technological process of film-making has been invaluable to us in our work as film-makers. We encourage directors and producers throughout the world to tap into the incredible wealth of talent and creativity which has become synonymous with the British film industry."
Check Book 4 went on line at the BFC's web site (www.britfilmcom.co.uk) in February.
(from BFC press handout)