Ulaanbaatar
Filmmakers highlight necessity of government investment in Mongolian film arts
Society
Ulaanbaatar /MONTSAME/. The time has come for the state to pay attention to the field of film arts in Mongolia, highlighted the participants of the conference, ‘Mongolian film arts 2020’, that took place on October 1.
Organized by the Mongolian National Film Commission, the conference covered topics, such as the coronavirus infection and film arts, opportunities for Mongolian films to enter the global market, current situation, and the role of freelance filmmakers and artists, film producers, movie theaters, and content distributors.
Head of the Mongolian National Film Commission M.Orgil said, “As of currently, it is highly necessary to bring the quality and level of our film arts to the international level. Mongolian films would begin to be watched globally by making films that would get awards from international film festivals, such as the Cannes Film Festival, the Berlin International Film Festival, the Venice International Film Festival as well as the Oscars in 5 to 10 years. This would also result in increased tourism, perceived value of Mongolian citizens as well as the value of products made in Mongolia. We are organizing this conference in aims of joining forces and helping our state understand the importance of this issue.”
Actress, director B.Erdenetsetseg said, “The Mongolian film industry was in a difficult situation from 1998 to 2008. During the years, amateur filmmakers began to make a lot of films. Although there is a business side to film arts, film should be artwork. As it is a form of “investment” for our citizens’ intellect as well as mindset, filmmaking should be avoided if not done professionally. The time has come for the state to give special attention to the field. I believe that there should be certain amount of investment made by the state in filmmaking each year.”
Film director J.Sengedorj said, “Only a certain amount of individual filmmakers currently make films for the masses. It is the same globally. However, there are independent filmmakers that make arthouse films as well. The most important pressing issue for us is the issue of how we should help our audience see the charm of Mongolian films.”
As the Law on Films have been included in the agenda of the autumn session of the parliament, there will soon be a policy for the field and increased support from the government. Following this, the quality and content of films are expected to improve, with the creation of arthouse films, highlighted officials of the Mongolian National Film Commission.
