One of the most interesting points brought up in today’s interview (page 6&7) with Peter Busuttil, Head of the Malta Film Commission, is that the Maltese film makers need to be participate in foreign film festivals in order to get recognised abroad.
While Maltese musicians have seen a slight increase in exposure to markets outside of the local sphere, film makers still seem to struggle.
Mr Busuttil explains that it would mean very little if a locally produced short film is screened only in local cinemas. The next step, he said, has to be participation in foreign festivals, where productions will get much bigger exposure and maybe get noticed by a renowned director or production company.
Participating in such events will put the local film industry on the map and raise awareness of the indigenous industry. He added that a short film will remain relevant forever, which is something valuable in today’s world where everything is relative
He also warns budding film makers to not over extend themselves when it came to funding their projects. But how do we boost the levels of funding?
Mr Busuttil said the Film Commission is taking initiatives to provide training for those interested in starting a career in the industry. The Commission has already applied for EU funding as part of its drive to improve the level of local expertise in the field, especially human resources. The Commission intends to offer foundation certificates and diplomas to beginners. Mr Busuttil encouraged interested parties to come forward with their ideas, as the commission is eager to see this industry thrive. But despite these positive moves, we still have misgivings. How are young and talented film makers going to find the money to fulfil their productions?
It is true, Malta now has an excellent infrastructure when it comes to blockbuster filming and attracting all the huge foreign stars and directors. But there must be a better and stronger infrastructure to assist people in making productions here. We do not mean the usual terrible local television serials, we mean assistance and infrastructure available for those artists who could develop into big names abroad. Sadly, film is one area where genius and a vivid imagination are not enough – one must have access to the infrastructure and funding – sometimes a substantial amount of it.
We do not wish to knock our local industry. It has been improving steadily over the years. Quality and quantity has increased – but now it is time to make that extra leap forward.
On the other hand, one cannot ignore the plethora of titles and series that have been filmed in Malta. So many productions have been filmed here. Some have to do with our architecture, some our climate, some our sea… but the fact remains that the infrastructure to support filming has improved dramatically.
Big movies and series mean big money. It also gives Malta a lift. When foreign (and local) media get a whiff of a big picture being shot here, Malta suddenly appears in all the foreign press and magazines. It’s good, it’s positive and it helps our tourism image.
Of course, when films are made here, it also leaves a good return in the public coffers, another reason as to why we have to retain our good name and continue to attract more productions. Will it be Tom Cruise next? Who knows. One would not be surprised.