To help the local film industry nurture talent, in particular to meet the demand arising from more co-productions between the local and flourishing Mainland markets in recent years, the Government has provided funding support through the Film Development Fund (FDF) to the Federation of Hong Kong Filmmakers to organise the Film Professionals Training Programme 2010.
Addressing the opening ceremony of the programme today (September 18), the Deputy Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development, Mr Alan Siu, said: "Underpinning the success of Hong Kong movies are the hard work of film crews and their professionalism and creativity. Talent is the most valuable asset and nurturing of talent on all fronts is thus essential if the industry is to maintain sustainable development.
"The programme provides tailor-made training to cater for students of different capabilities to enable them to join the field soon after graduation".
The nine-month programme received funding of $9.6 million from the FDF. Upon completing two months of the mandatory module on basic film-making concepts, participants will, in accordance with their abilities and performance, receive training in cinematography/lighting, action performing, assistant directing, assistant producing, editing and post-production services. On-the-job training in film companies will also be arranged for the students after graduation. More details of the programme are available at www.filmtraining.com.hk .
Since its launch in October 2007, the FDF has not only financed small to medium budget film productions, but supported projects and activities conducive to the long-term development of the industry. So far it has provided financial support to 51 such projects and activities, including the production of the Film and Animation Art Teaching Kit for Secondary Schools to tie in with the new senior secondary visual arts curriculum.
Saturday, September 18, 2010