Entertainment
That’s a Wrap for Film Festival
The festival, otherwise known as ‘IoMFF’, was established by Dave Armstrong and Christy DeHaven and was a follow on from their MannIN Shorts festival in 2012
Founders of Isle of Man Film Festival have announced the end of the event.
The festival, otherwise known as ‘IoMFF’, was established by Dave Armstrong and Christy DeHaven and was a follow on from their MannIN Shorts festival in 2012, which predominantly celebrated local film production.
They expanded this event from one day to five, which included an international film competition, guest speakers and workshops.
A number of island filmmakers who learned their craft at the workshops and featured at the event have since gone on to have successful careers in the industry.
Following a break because of Covid, Christy, Rich Hird and Laura Gill brought back a smaller version of the festival in 2021, with hopes to build up to what would have been the 10th anniversary event this year.
Asked why they decided to call it a day, Christy DeHaven, co-founder and Manx Radio presenter said: ‘It’s no secret that everyone is experiencing financial challenges at the moment and the process of raising funds for an event of this size requires considerable dedication, time and energy, add to that the practical and organisational elements on top and it quickly becomes an all consuming thing.
‘It was brilliant fun and worth every minute, but we were all doing this as a passion project, alongside our other jobs and commitments, and in recent times it’s just become too great an ask.’
Dave Armstrong, filmmaker, writer and co-founder of the festival said: ‘As a filmmaker I feel it is very important to both showcase indigenous talent and introduce the wider film industry to the opportunities offered by the Isle of Man.
‘The festival worked to both of these ends but within an amazingly entertaining programme, supported by many kind sponsors including the Isle of Man Arts Council, that engaged a wide section of the public.
‘Although I haven’t been involved directly with the festival for a number of years now, I am still actively involved in film-making and promoting the Isle of Man as one of the best places in the British Isles to shoot a movie.
‘We have an abundance of local creative talent and a wealth of beautiful locations.
‘As for a film festival: the good news is that I believe there is a new festival gearing up with a new team and I’m sure that it will become an important partner in keeping the Isle of Man on the film-making map.
‘I want to wish them every success in the future as we redevelop our film-making sector.’
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