Access Moving Image

Access Moving Image (AMI) is a multi award winning production company founded in 2003. We produce entertaining and thought provoking films for cinema and internet audiences, along with highly effective communication films for business clients in the private, public and third sectors. We're a little different from other production companies, because we use our own profits and surplus revenues to subsidise or fund social film projects through our groundbreaking First Shot and InFocus initiatives. These projects allow everyone - including young people, the marginalised and the ignored - to contribute to discussions about issues that affect them. The films offer a candid insight into the cultural make-up of our society and can be used to influence decision makers and affect change. AMI often works in partnership with other organisations, agencies and local authorities to develop projects within the region and across the UK. The company was founded by Craig Lawson in response to his frustration at the lack of opportunities for working class filmmakers in the region. He remains as passionate today as he did back in 2003 about the need to find and develop talent. Our New Wave programme was established to support and incubate emerging filmmakers from non-traditional backgrounds across the north of England by creating freelance work opportunities and access to advice and low cost resources. The programme has supported the development and production of countless short films culminating in the award winning feature documentary 'We Are Poets'.