The Midlands has a growing film and creative sector, but many independent filmmakers and production companies still face barriers to accessing international markets and partners.

As part of the Odyssey 2026 film festival industry event, the inaugural "Hong Kong-UK Film Connect: Midlands Edition" will introduce Midlands filmmakers to Hong Kong as a gateway to the wider Asian screen industries.

The event will provide practical information on international markets, co-production, financing, sales and distribution, while creating opportunities to meet Hong Kong and UK industry professionals.

Programme

17:00 - Welcome Remarks

By Hiu Man Chan, Artistic Director of Odyssey, Senior Lecturer in Creative Industries at De Montfort University.

17:05 - Keynote: Hong Kong - Gateway to the Asian Screen Market

By June Chan, Marketing Manager. Hong Kong Trade Development Council (London Office)

An overview of Hong Kong's film industry, international networks and opportunities for UK filmmakers, including FILMART, co-production and distribution.

17:30 - Discussion Panel: From Midlands/UK to the International Market

Moderated by Hiu Man Chan

Keith Allott leads on PLATFORM - a programme for filmmakers and digital artists working with moving image in Leicester. Led by Phoenix in partnership with Liminal Screens and Badshoes Film, PLATFORM runs regular events featuring guest speakers from film, television, and the digital arts.

Jackson Pat is a film director and producer whose career spans more than thirty years across Hong Kong, Mainland China, and the United Kingdom. Beginning in television commercials before rising through Hong Kong's renowned TVB, he has built a career defined by visual storytelling, creative versatility, and international collaboration.

After founding his own production company, Jackson transitioned into feature filmmaking while continuing to direct acclaimed commercial work. As a producer, his credits include internationally successful films such as Ip Man 4: The Finale and Vanguard. As a director, his feature films include Who Moved My Dream and the cult favourite Goodbye Mr. Vampire.

Through Octopus Media Ltd., Jackson continues to develop and produce original film and television projects that combine strong visual style with emotionally engaging storytelling. His work reflects a commitment to creating compelling stories that connect with audiences across cultures.

Martin Glew, Acquisition, Sales and Marketing Manager at Screenbound International. Screenbound International Pictures launched in 2013 to provide international sales and distribution services for producers. We are part of the Screenbound Entertainment Group, with Screenbound Pictures distributing in the UK and Screenbound Productions creating feature and TV content for worldwide clients, as well as providing post-production services. We attend the major markets for film and TV buyers throughout the year, and our in-house team provide a production, design, sales, marketing, technical and accounts service for our rights-holders. We are a member of the longstanding Independent Film and Television Alliance (IFTA) and Producers Alliance for Cinema and Television (PACT).

18:30 - 19:00 - Casual Project Pitching, Feedback + Networking

All our invited guests will be around, for your evaluative project pitch. Hang around to get some feedback alongside a reception and networking session.

Organisers:

HKTDC, London

De Montfort University

Odyssey, a film festival

Supported by:

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🎬 ODYSSEY 2026 | #FASHION

📅 28 September – 10 October 2026

📍 Online & in cinemas across the UK

📍odysseychinesecinema.uk

🎟️ International Film Festival | British Council accredited

Description supplied by the event organiser.