In April 2014 we profiled BAFTA-winning director Amma Asante (A Way of Life, Belle) at the first of this year’s Brits to Watch, a series of showcase events hosted by BAFTA New York and Los Angeles, with the aim of introducing outstanding British film talent to the US film industry.
On Tuesday 1 April in New York, and on Thursday 3 April in Los Angeles, director Amma Asante was introduced at a screening of her second feature film Belle, which premiered at the 2013 Toronto International Film Festival to strong reviews, and opened this year’s Palm Springs International Film Festival. _Belle_ is inspired by the true story of a mixed race girl raised as an aristocratic Lady in England around the time of the abolition of slavery.
In 2005, BAFTA awarded Asante the Carl Foreman Award for the Most Promising Newcomer for her debut film A Way of Life. She was also named Best Director – Drama at the BAFTA Cymru Awards in Wales in the same year.
Briony Hanson, Director of Film at British Council, said: “British Council is delighted to be continuing the series by showcasing the talents of Amma Asante. She’s a perfect fit for the programme having made a hugely confident second feature in Belle which marries a traditional view of British Cinema – period drama and a top notch cast – with a very unusual and surprising story. We really look forward to helping her connect with the US industry during her visit.”
Read the announcement press release for further information
BAFTA’s ‘Brits to Watch: The Screenings’ is produced in partnership with British Council with the support of Framestore, Langham Hospitality Group, Soho House and UK Trade & Investment.
