Tornado Films is an independent film production company based in South Wales, UK . As a fully vertically integrated entity the company has a long term ambition of taking content from development right through to, and including distribution. Digital technology has opened many doors for the company. It not only allows us to innovate on a technological and content level but also with our business strategy. Tornado Films, in partnership with HRH Prince of Wales, The University of Wales, ERDF and The Welsh Government have embarked upon a 3 year research project through the prestigious POWIS (Prince of Wales Innovation Scholarship) to investigate the fragmentation within the independent film value chain, and look at how digital convergence will aid its restructuring through case study analysis. The result of which will afford the company with a competitive advantage and provide a podium for international exploitation through existing and emerging platforms.

The company has a long term strategy that includes the development of skills and talent. Over the next few years Tornado Films will announce various training strategies for emerging and new talent, especially in the field of producing and creative entrepreneurship. Of course, it is also important that we recognize that the future is with the youth of today. Therefore, Tornado Films is proud to announce its launch of ‘The Lightning Hut’. This is a free to attend youth facility that will equip young people for the Creative Industries of the future. The company intends to pilot the concept in one area and after analysis and amendments to open more all over the country.

Of course, at the heart of our strategy is film production. In 2011 alone, Tornado Films will release ‘Rain’ an original musical, in the Summer - co-produce a romantic Comedy with our friends in London - City Slacker ltd, and at the end of the year to produce another feature called ‘Darkest days’.

Tornado Films is a company with ambition and the will to succeed. One question that dominates our thoughts is ‘how would we recognize success’? Well, actually, it’s simple – to create a self-sustaining entity that develops its surrounding talent and skills bases whilst promoting economic sustainability, and raising international awareness of the company and its products.

Antony Smith
Producer