Directors Digest — Thursday 26 October

On-set indigenous representation, movements at Apple and what happens exactly when copyright goes copywrong? Find out all about it in today’s Directors Digest. 

Film

The DGA has begun disciplinary action against Harvey Weinstein. (Screen International)

Congratulations to our members Deborah Haywood, Rupert Jones and Dominic Cooke, who have all been longlisted in the New Talent - Debut Director category at the British Independent Film Awards. (BIFA)

Congratulations too to our member Nathan Theys on winning the Pitching Compeition at this year’s Cape Town International Film Festival. Nathan attended our Life’s A Pitch event earlier this year.  (Channel 24)

The LA Times covers this year’s London Film Festival, and its emphasis on inclusion and female directors. 

How Taika Waititi pushed for indigenous representation on the set of Thor: Ragnarok. (The Mary Sue)

“When copyright goes copywrong.” An interesting read on the cottage industry that formed around rigid copyright law in film. (Tedium)

Television

The Huffington Post speaks to our Chair Steve Smith on the subject of sustainability in the film and TV industries. 

London-based indie Chalkboard is launching a Scottish arm to make CBBC drama. (Televisual)

Apple has hired Jay Hunt, Channel 4’s chief creative officer, in a move that signals serious film and TV intentions. (Guardian)

Buzzfeed is pivoting towards film and television content. (New York Times)

Zinc media has acquired Scottish indie Tern TV, Televisual reports.  

And finally, the producers of Blue Planet II talk about the dramatic ups and downs of filming the series. (Guardian)

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.