Tue, 29/08/2023 - 10:57
Student Residency Winners 2023 - New Tropic Pictures
New Tropic Pictures are a Film Production company based in Derby and founded by two university friends, Fletcher Smith (Creative Director) and Floyd Parker (Strategic Director). Fletcher Smith and Floyd Parker-Horwell started at The University of Derby in September 2020 and quickly became close friends- “we would frequently joke that we would spend more time together than with our partners,” Fletcher recalls.
Throughout their time at University, Fletcher and Floyd, along with another first-year student, Jack Stokes, developed an understanding of cinematography in the form of 16mm film and 35mm stills photography with cheap cameras. As a way of practicing their filmmaking skills, the trio would go out and film mini shorts at fairgrounds, early mornings at farms and even travelling to Wales to shoot a short film called Platform 42.
As the group progressed, Floyd and Fletcher began to see how beneficial it was having a group of individuals committed to filming. After realising its full potential, Fletcher and Floyd welcomed Jack Stokes to their team as a technical director. Jack had previously worked as an editor on two short films called ‘Quarry’ and ‘The Creative’.
“During the summer of 2022, we realised there was a further need for integration between the university courses to help achieve true collaboration with one another and really maximise the opportunities for both the students and the University of Derby alike.” Fletcher explained.
Ready to continue their business development journey, Fletcher and Floyd needed to find a space to continue their calls, meetings, and auditions and thus, found the Enterprise Centre. The two met with Michelle Crofts, Project Officer, who introduced the Innovation Hothouse. Alongside this, the team met with Oliver Stonier, Student Enterprise Manager, and Leanne Stevens’ to discuss the Be the Boss scheme.
Now, as winners of this years Student Residency at Banks Mill Studios, the group are looking forward to taking their business to a new level. “We are thrilled to have won the student residency at Banks Mill. This opportunity is a game-changer for our film production start-up, providing us with a dedicated physical space that will take our operations, films and overall productivity to new heights”
Tom Craig, the Programme Leader BA (Hons) Film Production is delighted at the groups achievements. “I am thrilled to witness the remarkable achievement of our talented graduates, Floyd, Fletcher and Jack, as they embark on their journey with New Tropic Pictures. Their success in securing the Banks Mill Student Residency is a testament to their dedication, creativity, and entrepreneurial spirit. This opportunity not only provides them with rent-free office space but also invaluable business support, enabling them to cultivate their feature film production company and bring their visions to life. It's inspiring to see our alumni thriving and making their mark in the industry. I have no doubt that Floyd and Fletcher will continue to elevate the art of filmmaking, and I eagerly await the incredible stories they will create. This is just the beginning of their remarkable journey, and I am proud to have been a part of their growth and success."