September 5, 2024
THIMPHU – In a bid to revive the country’s beleaguered film industry, the government has allocated Nu 200 million as part of its Economic Stimulus Plan (ESP).
This financial boost arrives at a pivotal moment when the industry is still grappling with the fallout of the pandemic.
The officiating president of the Film Association of Bhutan (FAB), Yeshi Tshering, lauded the government’s support, emphasising its critical timing. “The pandemic dealt a severe blow to our industry, and recovery has been sluggish post pandemic. This funding is a lifeline that will reinvigorate our sector,” he said.
The government’s intervention includes a soft loan component designed to stimulate production of films.
This initiative has already encouraged producers to engage scriptwriters and directors, initiating pre-production processes. “This is a positive indication of how the industry is already getting back on its feet,” he said.
However, Yeshi Tshering cautioned about the responsibilities tied to the loans. “While this support is invaluable, we must ensure our scripts and productions are of high quality to meet financial and creative expectations.”
The government also plans to construct new cinema halls in Bajo, Wangdue and Samdrup Jongkhar, which will provide new screening platforms for Bhutanese films.
In the interim, FAB has requested permission to screen films in local schools, colleges, and community halls. “We are working on the necessary rules and regulations to facilitate this,” Yeshi Tshering said.
The FAB’s Executive Director, Tashi Dhendup, said that a Standard Operating Protocol would aid in allocating loans based on script quality, cast, and direction. “FAB can also take the responsibility of oversight accountability from pre-production to post-production. It would ensure that films are made at the expected level that will be required,” he said.
The head of Dorjigs Production, Dorji Wangchuk, welcomed the government’s initiative as a timely boon. “It was really difficult to get approvals for loans for films in the past. This support is a blessing and will benefit the industry as a whole,” he said. “Moving forward, we must strive for self-reliance and aim to make the industry vibrant by capitalising on the current support we are receiving.”
The director of popular horror film ‘Taba Hoka’, Kinley Tshering, said that the film industry is caught in a vicious cycle of low budget, poor quality, and poor returns.
“Producers would hesitate to invest more money in films for fear of poor returns. This would compromise the quality of the film, and not be able to attract the audience, thereby making no profits,” he said.
He added that financial support from the government can help break this cycle as now films can be made with higher budgets, which will improve the quality of the films.
He also said that the government can play a key role in supporting Bhutanese films to reach international platforms by facilitating permissions and eliminating red tape. “Currently, most Bhutanese filmmakers face several layers of obstacles, such as objections while shooting or requirement for permission to film in certain locations. “Doing away with the red tape would help us bring out the best from our films.”
The number of films produced declined from 18 in 2019 to 15 in 2020, and further to 12 in 2021. According to Bhutan InfoComm and Media Authority, 16 feature films, including web series, documentaries, and promotional videos, were approved in 2023.
The number of operational production houses has also decreased from over 200 to around 70. In a good year, the film industry produces around 25-30 films.
The previous government granted a 10-year tax holiday for the film and entertainment sector.