FILM COUNCIL BOOSTS ETHNIC FILM PRODUCTION

A NEW senior executive has been appointed to the Film Council’s New Cinema Fund in an effort to help stimulate growth in ethnic film production.
Senior Executive Himesh Kar will have responsibility for culturally diverse issues within the UK film industry.
Paul Trijbits, Head of the New Cinema Fund said: “Himesh’s appointment is an exciting addition to the Film Council’s New Cinema Fund, his experience in nurturing talent is a vital component in realising our goals and ambitions at the Film Council.”
The appointment supports the Film Council’s £5 million-a-year New Cinema Fund which brings with it the prospect of giving ethnic filmmakers the opportunity to become an integral part of the UK film industry at large.
It is envisaged that alliances with industry and non-industry agencies will be integral to the perpetuation of Kar’s work. The Film Council say that Kar will aim to bring black and Asian filmmakers to the fore by encouraging mainstream genres such as horror, romantic comedies, teen-orientated films and thrillers not normally associated with ethnic minority film-makers.
Film director Shekhar Kapur says, “From my experience of working in the UK I’ve recognised the need for a move towards the active promotion of black and Asian filmmakers. I think Himesh will bring about an awareness and create an environment that is essential for the growth of talent working here today.” (AMcE)