Directors Digest — Thursday 4 January 2018

2018 is here and that means Directors Digest is back in business. We’ve barely had a chance to catch our breath and already the news is pouring in. This week we’ve got everything from the BFI to Black Mirror, Netflix to ESPN, blockbusters to...cinema seats. Read all about it below!

Film

300 prominent women in Hollywood have unveiled an anti-harassment action plan. (New York Times)

The BFI has abandoned plans for a £130m centre of film and television, citing Brexit as an obstacle. (Guardian) 

Stephen Follows takes a look at the trends re-shaping the film industry in 2018. (Stephen Follows)

The three top-grossing films of 2017 were all female-led. (/Film)

Are you sitting comfortably? Leading movie theatre chair makers discuss the future of their industry. Learn all about telescopic seating systems today! (Box Office Pro)

Television

We were saddened to hear of the passing of director Peter Duffell, aged 95. (Directors UK)

The BFI is to allocate a £60m fund for kids TV. (Broadcast, Paywall)

Citi analysts report that Apple could buy Netflix, TBVision reports.

Amazon and ESPN are on the hunt for new CEOs. (Variety)

Member Toby Haynes takes viewers inside the first episode of the new series of Black Mirror: “USS Callister.” (The Hollywood Reporter)

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.