European directors attack film cuts
The European Federation of Film Directors (FERA, founded 1980 in Venice) has just concluded its 30th Anniversary Assembly in legendary Cinecittà, Rome.
The film makers celebrated three decades of existence with discussions on the M_dia Programme, a European Directors’ Contract, proper sharing of internet rights, access to European film in digitalised cinemas, and most urgent of all, the devastating series of cuts now being applied to film support in Italy, Hungary, Estonia, Czech Republic, Ireland, Portugal and the UK.
FERA understands that savings are necessary in difficult times, but these cuts to tax incentives, film infrastructure, and funding for production and distribution will jeopardize the very existence of European cinema.
We find it strange that while the European Commission tries to ‘unlock the Potential of the Creative Industries’ some member governments are using the financial crisis to savage them. The word ‘Culture’ clearly makes some Ministers reach for their guns.
Culture, and access to it, are basic human rights. Culture defines countries and people even more than borders do.
This is also true of the cinema _ one of Europe’s defining glories. But film making, in all its variety, is also a major economic activity.
All over the world, investment in film and TV production has helped to build industries, feeding the new media, creating jobs and adding to economic output.
This is an industry of the future: it deserves long sighted treatment.
We call on all European Governments to preserve and invest in the structures of film funding and film culture. Once destroyed, they will not be easily rebuilt.
Did you enjoy reading this article? Please subscribe to our newsletter to receive more stories like this directly in your inbox.
