Directors Digest — 15 January 2020

Oscar nominations occupied the airwaves this week, but plenty has been happening in the industry besides. This week’s Digest takes in Festival jury appointments, director roundtables and regionality at the BBC — as well as a look at the formidable legacy of the late Tony Garnett. 

Film

The Oscar nominations were announced, and while we were excited to see our member Sam Mendes flying the flag for British directors, we were still disappointed by the continued lack of representation in the directing category. Read a full list of the nominees here. (Vox)

Meanwhile, The Hollywood Reporter hosted a fascinating roundtable with a selection of directors including Lulu Wang, Greta Gerwig and Martin Scorsese.

Rocks director (and Directors UK member) Sarah Gavron has been announced Chair of the BFI Future Film Festival Awards Jury. 

Spike Lee has been chosen to head the Cannes Film Festival Jury. (Screen)

Should all screen stars stop flying for work? The BBC investigates. 

Television

Tony Garnett, a highly esteemed producer (and a member of Directors UK), sadly passed away in the last week. The Guardian looks at the way he shook up TV forever.

Tony Hall wants two-thirds of BBC staff out of London by 2027, Broadcast reports. 

Viewing hours on ITV Hub grew by 13% in 2019, TBI Vision reports. 

The BBC has tapped Clare Sillery and Jack Bootle to replace Tom McDonald in his role as head of natural history and specialist factual. (Realscreen)

Are you a member with an opinion on one of these stories? Is there an issue affecting directors that you think isn’t getting enough attention in the media? Why not write for us and make yourself heard — email [email protected] with your article idea.