REC:MCR, the first Manchester Film & Production Meetup, exceeded every expectation we had. From the moment people started arriving, it was clear there was a real appetite for this kind of space. A room filled with filmmakers, producers, creatives and collaborators all keen to connect, share ideas and support one another.
The turnout, the conversations, and the energy in the room reminded us exactly why REC:MCR exists in the first place.
A Community First Event
The goal with REC:MCR was simple. To create a welcoming, inclusive space where Manchester’s filmmaking community can come together. Not just to network in the traditional sense but to actually talk, listen, learn and build relationships that lead to meaningful collaboration. This meetup is part of a new quarterly event series designed to strengthen Manchester’s rapidly growing production sector by bringing film, video and content professionals from across the city and the wider North West into the same room.
So much of this industry can feel fragmented or closed off, especially for emerging filmmakers. REC:MCR is about breaking down those barriers and creating a regular home for people to show work, exchange ideas, ask honest questions and find collaborators who share the same drive and passion.
Judging by the buzz in the room, the conversations that spilled long past the talks, and the connections being made, it feels like that mission really landed. And this is only the beginning.
Thank You to Our Supporters
A huge thank you to Campfield for hosting us as venue sponsor and providing such a brilliant setting for the night. Campfield stepped in as the first confirmed sponsor for the series and offered a central Manchester venue that helped set the tone for the evening.
Special appreciation goes to Rammy from G6 Motion Control, Edward Harvey from VERSA Studios, Baldwin Li and Matthew Boone for introducing the Breakthrough Film Fund and sharing exciting insights into what’s coming next for filmmakers in the region. Opportunities like this are vital, and hearing about real, tangible support for local talent was hugely encouraging.
We were proud to have award-winning cinematographer Paul Mortlock headline the night. His work spans high-end commercials, branded content and narrative projects, and his openness about his career journey, the realities of working in the industry and the practical advice he shared with emerging filmmakers was incredibly inspiring. Honest conversations like that are invaluable, and the response from the room said it all.
Big love as well to the brilliant co-hosts Alain Jess and Kodak from Triangle Facilities Hub and to the Coolbox crew for helping bring everything together behind the scenes. REC:MCR was created and delivered by Manchester-based production businesses that care deeply about strengthening the local creative ecosystem.
Manchester, and the Power of Place
Manchester has always had a strong creative identity, but there is something particularly exciting happening right now, especially in the St John’s area. The mix of studios, production companies, creative businesses and independent talent all operating within close proximity creates a real sense of momentum.
It is an environment where ideas move quickly, collaborations form naturally and creative ambition feels supported. REC:MCR is proud to be part of that ecosystem and to help connect the people shaping the future of film and production in the city.
What’s Next
REC:MCR is not a one-off. It is a growing community, and this first meetup was just the starting point. We want to keep building a space that reflects Manchester itself. Open, collaborative, ambitious and generous with knowledge and support.
We are aiming for the next REC:MCR meetup to take place at the end of April, so keep an eye out for announcements and details coming soon.
If you joined us, thank you for being part of it. If you missed it, we would love to see you at the next one.
This is only the beginning 🎬❤️