14/05/2011

The Norwegian South Film Fund has announced that some NOK 4 million (roughly €510,000) will be made available next year to fund production in Norway for films from developing countries.

This initiative from the Norwegian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Ministry of Culture is aiming to provide the money to countries from the “south,” which includes everywhere from Armenia to Cambodia. (A full list is available upon demand.)

The fund is intended for “producers/directors from countries in the south where the infrastructure of film production is weak for political or economical reasons,” according to a statement issued in Cannes. Strong artistic content and a high degree a cultural identity in the project is essential, as per the release. There is a particular interest in supporting directors and producers dealing with issues on freedom of expression.

The Norwegian Film Institute and the Oslo Films From the South Festival will jointly be in charge of administrating the fund – with the first deadline for application December 15, 2011. A Norwegian co-producer is required.

At the 21st edition of the Films From the South Festival, a forum (October 10-11) will be organized to create a meeting place in order for applying directors/producers to meet with potential Norwegian co-producers. The forum will provide an opportunity to pitch projects and to make essential contacts. The deadline for applying for participation in the forum is August 15, 2011.