New Website, production guide to help filmmakers

The Malta Film Commission yesterday launched the second edition of the production guide and a new Website to facilitate the work of filmmakers in Malta's growing film industry.

Speaking at the launch, Finance and Economic Affairs Minister John Dalli described the film industry as a very important sector for the island's economy and he said it was vital to continue building on the success achieved so far in the most professional way.

"This is one of our island's showcases and it is important that there is transparency in any work carried out to ensure everything runs smoothly," he said.

Mr Dalli said the government was offering foreign film productions in Malta tailor-made incentives, including prompt VAT refund and payroll incentives depending on the number of people employed during the filming.

Meanwhile, speaking about the MFC's new Website and production guide, Film Commissioner Oliver Mallia said these two media offered film producers comprehensive information on Malta.

It contains all information on filming in Malta, from taxation and permit issues, applications for co-production status, detailed listings of services and personnel to links to all pertinent local entities.

The new Website provides an excellent service to those inquiring about Malta and is specifically designed to link local producers and elsewhere to all those involved in filmmaking.

All the photos appearing in the production guide and on the Website were shot by Jonathan Beacon and Kurt Arrigo. The Website, www.mfc.com.mt, was designed by Icon Studios.