Talented Richmond film producers and directors are looking forward to working behind-the-scenes on Paradise Grove, a cinema feature film, later this year.

Co-producer, James Murphy, 25, of Kew Road, said the film, a dark and quirky comedy set in a Jewish old people's home, was an "exciting project" because of the comical script and the way it is financed.

The film is being funded by issuing shares to the general public which has so far met with a very good response.

Tax concessions also mean that over half of the investment can be paid back by the Government to those eligible, under the Government's Enterprise Investment Scheme.

Mr Murphy, said: "There are very few independent British films and only a few have been financed in this way before.

"The script also holds some very good comedy moments."

Mr Murphy has nearly 10 years of experience in working on films including Captain Jack, Lost in Space and The Mexican Stand Off.

Fellow co-producer, Michael Brooke, now lives in Soho but was brought up in Richmond and attended the Vineyard Junior School.

He said: "The way the film is funded, with the tax concession scheme, is really what the British film industry has been crying out for."

Casting director Elaine Harris of Richmond Hill, said she was looking forward to the success of what she proudly described as a "totally British film" starring Warren Mitchell, Rula Lenska and Miriam Karlin. Mrs Harris praised "the vibrant theatrical atmosphere" Richmond has to offer.

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