Dated: 11 June 2008
Scheme will nurture first-time filmmakers with investments of up to S$250,000 for each project
On the back of Singapore’s strong showing at the recent Cannes Film Festival, the Singapore Film Commission (SFC) today marked its 10th anniversary by launching its New Feature Film Fund. This scheme aims to provide emerging talent, particularly first-time Singapore filmmakers, with the opportunity to direct their feature film in collaboration with experienced film production companies, by partnering the filmmaker with a producer who will guide the filmmaker through the production process.
Beyond production costs, the scheme also provides for up to S$20,000 in funding support for first time feature film directors to market their film, upon completion of the final film. In an important step, SFC is partnering distributor Golden Village to distribute the films within Singapore and will negotiate with foreign distributors for overseas distribution. This ensures that all films funded under this scheme receive a theatrical run in local cinemas. As a further incentive, filmmakers may be entitled to a percentage of revenues once the film has recouped its investment.
“Since the formation of the SFC ten years ago, Singapore’s film industry has grown immensely and charted significant achievements. The addition of this innovative new scheme will draw further attention to Singapore’s burgeoning film industry and make it easier for new talent to emerge,” said Ms Jennie Chua, Chairman of the SFC.
The scheme is open to Singaporeans and Permanent Residents, with funding applicable to all genres except documentaries. Entries have to be submitted by 31 July 2008. More information about the scheme can be found in Annex A, and on SFC’s website www.sfc.org.sg
“We believe Singapore has a pool of untapped creative talent. Having supported more than 200 short films and 100 filmmakers at overseas film markets and festivals over the past decade, we want to help nurture the next generation of aspiring filmmakers with this new scheme and assist them as they hone their directing and story-telling skills” said Mr Kenneth Tan, Director, SFC and the Media Development Authority of Singapore’s Chief Operating Officer.
The SFC was first formed in 1998 to nurture and develop the rapidly growing Singapore film industry and promote Singapore talent in filmmaking. Currently three other funding programmes are available to Singapore filmmakers. More details on SFC’s milestones are detailed in Annex B.
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Media Development Authority of Singapore (MDA)
Formed in 2003, the Media Development Authority of Singapore (MDA) plays a vital role in transforming Singapore into a Global Media City and positioning it at the forefront of the digital media age. MDA spearheads initiatives that promote developments in film, video, television, radio, publishing, music, games, animation, media services and Interactive Digital Media. At the same time, in ensuring clear and consistent regulatory policies and guidelines, MDA helps to foster a pro-business environment for industry players and increase media choices for consumers. For more information, visit www.mda.gov.sg and www.smf.sg
Singapore Film Commission (SFC)
The Singapore Film Commission (SFC) is an agency under the Media Development Authority (MDA) that facilitates and assists film development for Singapore. The SFC’s key areas of focus are: Funding, Facilitation and Promotion. Its mission is to nurture, support, and promote Singapore talent in film-making, the production of Singapore films, and a film industry in Singapore. For more information please visit, www.sfc.org.sg
Annex
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