Island film secures biggest deal

Renee Zellweger plays the lead in Miss Potter

Isle of Man Film has secured its biggest ever deal with the life story of children's author Beatrix Potter.

The sale of the North American film rights to the movie Miss Potter have been secured following a week of negotiations, Isle of Man Film says.

Harvey Weinstein of The Weinstein Company in New York stepped in to buy the rights.

Filming got under way this week, with Renee Zellweger starring as the Cumbrian children's author.

'Best position'

Directed by Chris Noonan, and also starring Ewan McGregor, it is expected to be the UK's biggest independent success of 2006.

DTI minister Alex Downie said: "Yet again I am delighted to be able to tell you that my Department and Isle of Man Film have succeeded in securing the best possible position for the Isle of Man in the progress of this film."

Sparkle, about a young Liverpool man who is an inspiring singer and dreams of moving to London, is also filming on the island. The film stars Bob Hoskins.

The Libertine, Keeping Mum and Lassie are among other recent films shot on the Isle of Man.