FILMMAKERS and film lovers from across the South are gearing up to make movie magic as Film Expo South returns to the Ageas Bowl next month.

A unique event designed to create, inspire and engage film & TV makers, anyone interested in the industry is being invited along on February 3 to form new collaborations in film, TV and video.

Once again, 2017's event will be a unique chance for everyone in the industry - from runners to producers, actors to investors and camera assistants to directors - to get together and inspire each other.

At least 30 seminars and workshops will cover a variety of topics to help filmmakers connect, educate in new methods, give industry updates, open doors to opportunities and bring more film productions to the South.

A host of guest speakers will give talks, masterclasses and demonstrations. They include Terry Bamber, one of Britain’s busiest and most popular Production Managers and Assistant Directors with credits including six Bond movies, Luther, World War Z and The Phantom of the Opera and Some Mothers Do 'Ave 'Em writer Raymond Allen.

They will be joined by internationally renowned director Howard J Ford, who won Best Independent Film 2016 at the National Film Awards with Never Let Go and a host of other industry experts.

Last year the event attracted more than 700 filmmakers, students and professionals alike. Attendees included actors, producers, runners, cameramen, set designers and investors.

The competition hots up again as well as the Pitch Factor returns for 2017. Finalists of the script writing competition will compete in a series of contests, which will see three scriptwriters chosen to have their short film made.

Also expect talks, book signings, screenings, panel discussions, and much more at the event, organised by Gillian Tully, a professional actress, entrepreneur and auteur, who has worked in film, television and starred in the West End theatre, and hosted by former BBC South weather presenter Georgie Palmer.

For more details, see filmexposouth.co.uk