A record of 21 applications were received by the Malta Film Commission for the Malta Film Fund 2012. Of these, 11 are for development projects, while 10 are for production projects.

Following the launch of the fund earlier this year, the MFC organised a series of information sessions in order to promote and provide information about who can benefit and how. These sessions were aimed especially towards emerging and experienced film-makers who may have not been aware of the opportunities provided by this fund.

In the coming weeks, an independent evaluation board that includes foreign experts will carry out the assessment of all projects. The beneficiaries of this year’s fund will be announced at a later stage.

This year, the Malta Film Fund has been increased to €250,000 for the development of films and documentaries and the production of short films, feature films and documentaries.

It is one of the goals of the MFC to encourage emerging and experienced film-makers to develop their potential. It offers its support to original ideas and stories for new works as well as the completion of film projects including the making of full-length features, documentaries, experimental, short and animation films. The MFC believes that this support ultimately helps strengthen talent and the local audio-visual industry.

Investment Minister Tonio Fenech and culture minister Mario de Marco welcomed the increased interest being shown by professionals involved in the film industry.

“This fund is assisting in the growth of the local film industry and local productions and aims at encouraging locals to provide more added value to foreign film -makers. This, in turn, will help them benefit from the new opportunities which are being created.”