Filmmaker Spotlight - Mike Sales

Welcome to the Filmmaker Spotlight – this series shines a light on filmmakers, actors, editors, and more, as we ask them a few questions and uncover why they love what they do.

This time - Mike Sales

Editor and Founder of Midlands Movies

• Tell us a bit about yourself, how and why did you start Midlands Movies?

Midlands Movies was set up in 2013 by me - Editor Michael Sales. Back then, after writing several scripts, I realised there was a need to help local filmmakers, writers, cast and crew. So, I explored creating a space where cinephiles could discuss and promote their projects for the benefit of the region. The site has now showcased a wide variety of talent from the Midlands film industry - ranging from first-time students to full feature productions.

With talent from every walk of life, I like to think Midlands Movies is a place for everyone with a story and skill to share. Having dabbled in music video making with my previous bands Black Page Turns and The Authentics, I have been a fan of all types of films since graduating in Media at DeMontfort University. Currently I am based in Leicester.

• What was the vision behind Midlands Movies when you first launched, and has that changed over time?

The vision is very much the same now as it has always been - To showcase the work of the extremely talented film creatives in the region through various articles, features, reviews and interviews. We also host trailers, films and since 2017 we have run our annual Midlands Movies Awards. 2026 will be our 10th event and we’re looking to share our anniversary with the best filmmakers out there.

• What’s the most rewarding part of running Midlands Movies?

I’m lucky I get to see so many films to be honest. From shorts and features, to animations and documentaries, I’ve seen thousands of films from every community in the Midlands and get to enjoy all the stories told from across our region. Once a year at our awards, it’s doubly-great to get the cream of the crop in one room and celebrate each others’ successes throughout the year. With a few lucky winners - chosen by industry experts - getting to take home a trophy for their efforts too!

• What have been some standout moments or films from Midlands filmmakers that really stuck with you?

There’s been so many over the years it’s difficult to choose one project but I have seen the region grow and get better with each year that passes. Films have gotten more professional, careers have been developed and forged and more events, screenings and showcases take place than ever before which is a real change from over a decade ago.

• Have you noticed any shifts in the kinds of stories being told in the region lately?

Again, it’s such a diverse region - from people, communities and geographical location - that the stories never seem to be the same at all. There are ebbs and flows throughout and the most standout period recently was during Covid. Back then, there were many films clearly shot with small (or no) crew and had to take place in gardens and homes - totally understandably of course. Ever since then though, the stories have become diverse again once more as people spread their filmmaking wings across the whole area to work with new cast and crew.

• What do you think the Midlands does uniquely well when it comes to filmmaking?

I think it's often a balance between the rural and the urban. Many big cities like London and Manchester just don’t have the diversity of locations within their city boundaries. In the Midlands, you can film at a castle or country house and a short drive will take you into one of the main cities. Places like Leicester and Birmingham have diverse demographics which helps keep stories varied and culturally rich. I also think it’s one of the friendliest and most supportive regions with many people helping out on each others’ projects to get films started and finished.

• Are there any hidden gems in the region, venues, collectives, or people, that deserve more recognition?

I am a bit biased towards the Pauline Quirke Academy (PQA) which has a number of schools throughout the region. This drama academy teaches children from 5-18 years old various creative skills from acting, musical theatre to filmmaking (camera, sound, directing etc). It’s a great way for young people to try all sorts of creative roles, gain new skills and also get a taster for what they may go on to do later in life - plus have a lot of fun and meet new people!

• If you could change one thing about the regional filmmaking landscape, what would it be?

More of a warning for us all to not underestimate the additional benefits and positives of bringing projects to the region. By that I mean, there’s whole other industries that can benefit by working in film in the region - transport, logistics, catering, hospitality etc.

And so making a film in the area isn’t just for the cast and crew. A whole economy can grow and in these tough times, I think that’s important right now - and to lay the infrastructure for future filmmaking here.

• Who or what inspires you in your work?

The filmmakers themselves really. I really don’t have to do half the work someone does when making a film and admire all the graft, time and efforts each and every one of these talented teams puts into their productions. Often with very limited (or none at all) money to invest or resources to rely on. It’s impressive that the majority create just for the love of it.

• What advice would you give to new or emerging filmmakers in the Midlands who are just starting out?

Just get out there and shoot! Your first film * probably * won’t be the best thing you’ll ever create but start by learning the ropes and getting the fundamentals solid. Learn the established rules - you can break these later - and get familiar with the equipment and working as part of a team. Also try to learn the benefits (and sometimes drawbacks) of making short films - there are limitations but you can often try many more different genres in a shorter amount of time. But each and every one takes hard work so please don’t give up either. There’s lots of formal and informal support networks out there and am happy to direct people in the right direction. And YouTube is a treasure trove for learning, studying and getting practical advice on all areas of film.

• And finally, what’s next for you and Midlands Movies?

On the immediate horizon is our 10th Anniversary Midlands Movies Awards taking place in June next year. The submission window opens on 31st October 2025 and runs for three months so we hope to see yet another selection of great films from across the region. We’re about to announce our jury panel soon - with an extra special VIP judge as well - and hope filmmakers can get involved for another year to celebrate everything the Midlands has to offer. You can find out more at MidlandsMovies on FilmFreeway!