A North East-based investment firm has announced its contribution to funding the latest Liam Neeson blockbuster.
Invest Northern Counties, an investment vehicle managed by Christopher Reynolds, has become junior partner in the film Normal People, which also stars Oscar and BAFTA-nominated Lesley Manville.
Christopher hopes over 200 jobs will be created across the UK as part of this project coined as one of the buzziest projects of its type from this side of the pond.
“This is a very exciting project for the UK film industry and I’m delighted to be bringing North East investment into it,” he said.
Raised in Cramlington, Northumberland, Christopher remained in the region, attending Northumbria University before embarking on a career in banking. Invest Northern Counties was launched to give those in the North East the opportunity to invest in a range of film projects both nationally and internationally.
He said: “I am passionate about the film industry and what it can do to boost the region. I feel we have a duty to promote it positively.
“My clients share this passion, so I am keen to use the funds available to shout about and create jobs in the North East.”
Invest Northern Counties currently manages a portfolio of over £64 million of assets from a total of 56 high net worth investors.
While the latest Liam Neeson film, tipped as a potential award contender and grey-pound breakout, will be filmed in Belfast, the funds invested by CR67 Limited have all come from the North East.
The male star of the upcoming movie, his way into acting following a stint of teacher training at St Mary’s College, in Fenham, Newcastle. This career was brought to an abrupt end when he punched a pupil in the face after being threatened with a knife.
Christopher is also Commercial Director at international film finance and production firm Salon Pictures, which has offices in London and Los Angeles, through which a great deal of North East investment is placed.
Twitter: @InvestNC
Website: www.salonpictures.co.uk