Dated: 5 February 2009
Filmmakers are set to benefit from two new funds by the Singapore Film Commission (SFC) to strengthen their capabilities in stereoscopic 3D production and sharpen their competitive edge.
SFC Stereoscopic 3D Film Development Fund
Following the establishment of the S$10 million 3D development fund announced at the 3DX Festival in November 2008, up to S$2 million will be set aside by SFC to seed the production of stereoscopic 3D feature films in Singapore for local and international distribution.
Under the Stereoscopic 3D Film Development Fund, Singapore companies looking to produce 3D content stand to receive up to 80 per cent of the incremental production budget or not more than S$350,000 in investment for a feature film of any genre including documentaries. This funding will cover, among others, hiring of above-theline talents with relevant experience, equipment rental and post-production services for 3D films. The SFC and film production companies will co-share rights and revenues based on co-funding arrangements.
This fund aims to boost the development of 3D film-making activities and build an industry of 3D practitioners in Singapore.
Already, efforts are in place on the content side with SFC partnering Brian Yuzna of Komodo Films to produce a slate of three films. The first, "Amphibious", will be postproduced by Singapore’s Infinite Frameworks. Brett Leonard, who directed "Virtuosity" will helm the second film as well as set up a state-of-the-art stereoscopic 3D movie production facility in Singapore that will handle the entire creative process from production to post-production in 3D.
"With the success of feature films such as "Bolt" and "Journey to the Centre of the Earth", 3D films are rapidly gaining audiences internationally and locally. I am enthusiastic that Singapore filmmakers will leverage on the fund to develop our very first 3D feature which would certainly herald a milestone in film-making for our country," said Mr Kenneth Tan, Chief Operating Officer of the Media Development Authority (MDA) and Director of SFC.
SFC 35mm Fulfilment Fund
Alongside the new Stereoscopic 3D Film Development Fund, the 35mm Fulfilment Fund was earlier launched to help local film-makers defray the costs of converting or developing a 35mm print master from a digital version of their short or feature film.
Commenting on the 35mm Fulfilment Fund, Mr Tan added: "While we recognize the technological advances that have led to Singaporeans embracing digital filmmaking, we also acknowledge that 35mm film formats are currently prevalent within the industry. The 35mm Fulfilment Fund will enable our filmmakers to bridge existing and emerging film formats.
"We hope that this fund will plug the gap between our existing assistance schemes available to filmmakers, and help them to gain greater footholds at prestigious film competitions such as the Berlin Film Festival or Cannes Film Festival."
Successful applicants for the 35mm Fulfilment Fund will receive up to S$25,000 or 50 per cent of the total cost of striking one 35mm print master. The print master can then be used for theatrical exhibition and distribution either locally or internationally. Filmmakers who have either secured representation by a sales agent or distributor requiring a 35mm print master, or who have been invited to participate in internationally renowned film festivals, are eligible to apply.
This fund complements the existing assistance offered such as the New Feature Film Fund that aims to provide first-time Singapore filmmakers with the opportunity to direct their feature film in collaboration with experienced film production companies.
Beyond production costs, the New Feature Film Fund 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.
For more details on the two latest funding schemes, including eligibility criteria, please visit the Singapore Film Commission website at http://www.sfc.org.sg.
- Ends –
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.
.webp)