FOCUS on Cyprus

FOCUS talks to Lefteris S. Eleftheriou, Head of Filming Unit at Invest Cyprus and Chairman of the Cyprus Film Commission

What brings you and Invest Cyprus / Film in Cyprus to FOCUS this year?
Our efforts to promote Cyprus as an attractive film destination began a few years ago, with visits to several countries and networking with key industry professionals. With the recent introduction of the incentives scheme offered for audiovisual productions, a specific roadmap with promotional activities has been formed, including of course participating at several international events to promote our scheme and our country of course. Part of this plan was a road trip in London this summer, where we met with key UK film makers and industry figures, all of which suggested to attend the Focus event as one of the most important business of production events in Europe.

What are you hoping to get out of the event and what in particular will you be promoting at FOCUS 2018?
Focus is a well-organized event, which takes place in one of the most vibrant cities in the world. London plays a significant role in the film industry. Actually, if you want to make your case known to the world, especially for newly established film schemes, like Cyprus, you should present your case in London. Participating at such a well-known and well-attended event is key to promoting Cyprus as a film destination and getting our scheme known to the British film community and of course the European market in general. As the representative of Film in Cyprus, I look forward to meeting with prominent figures and industry leaders attending the event and have productive talks exploring the opportunity of attracting productions in Cyprus and also share and gain knowledge and experience.