Let's title this one "What African Film Industries Can Learn from the UK's Progressive Model for Growth and Sustainability."
There's a critical need in African film industries for actionable initiatives beyond discussions at summits and forums. Leveraging the influence and access of organizers to push for structured, progressive policies, akin to those adopted by the UK government in the article below, could significantly advance the industries.
In the context of African cinemas, a proposed inquiry might look like this:
Committee Formation
- It could be continent-wide, or country-specific. In either case, the Committee should include a diverse range of industry professionals and representatives.
Areas of Focus
- Most important at this moment is talent development. So, establishing world-class training and educational programs that are not just imitations of Western models, but rather nurture and celebrate the unique cinematic voices and stories, prioritizing local context and perspectives that can lead to the development of distinctly African cinematic identities.
- Of course funding and financing, exploring sustainable funding models.
- Distribution and accessibility, enhancing local and international film distribution channels.
- Cultural representation, ensuring diverse and inclusive storytelling.
- Technology adoption, notably the proliferation of AI in the production and distribution stages.
- A regulatory environment that is consistent in examining and proposing regulatory changes.
- Audience engagement strategies, both locally and globally.
- Encouraging regional and international partnerships.
Process
- Gathering insights via submissions, followed by an in-depth analysis and a report outlining strategic recommendations.
- The next crucial step would be advocating for these recommendations to be implemented by governments. This means engaging with policymakers, leveraging the influence of industry stakeholders, and using the report to demonstrate the potential benefits of the proposed changes.
- Effective implementation will require continuous dialogue, collaboration, and, possibly, adjustments to the recommendations based on practical considerations and feedback.
This merely outlines a potential framework for exploring similar issues in African cinema contexts. Can this happen? While challenging, successful examples in other regions suggest it's possible with concerted effort and strategic planning.
CEO/Co-Founder @ IndieScene | Disrupting film distribution. #indiefilm #web3 #filmdistribution #cinema #screenings #events #festivals #arthouse #independentfilm #filmmakeractivist
1mo£175 (exc VAT) per ticket!?! I’ve been explaining ways to develop a better infrastructure within the UK’s independent film sector for a few years now. As well as solutions to create growth & sustainability. Policy makers and industry leaders haven’t been listening. What’s going to change? The same questions were asked about sustainability at this year’s Cannes. ** and nobody cared enough at last year’s British Screen Forum And the BFI still has yet to focus on their lack of accountability.