The Global Reach of the Film Industries of Asia

1.- Which role do you believe governments can play in encouraging the global reach of the film industry?

Governments can play a very important part in increasing the spread of their local film industry. This can be done in several ways, but by awarding local filmmakers with grants and incentives for creating new films governments may increase the number of productions. A great example of this would be the grants given by the Spanish government to young film directors, encouraging new professionals to develop their skills and to popularize the national productions.

Moreover, diplomacy, good relationships and agreements with third countries can help film producers to take part in joint-ventures; a fact increasing the spread of a production (promoted in two or more different countries). This was the case, for instance, of the well-known film 'Slumdog Millionaire', a collaboration between the British and Indian film industries.

Finally, I believe that the encouragement of Diasporas can also help a film industry to increase its presence in other countries. As explained in the text, Australia is a great example of this, since its multi-cultural population has spread the word of other film industries.

2.- What role do you believe countries such as Australia can play in the growth and success of the Asian film industry?

The best word to describe the Australian population is multicultural. English, Cantonese, Filipino, Vietnamese, Mandarin or Malaysian are languages easy to hear when walking down the street; being Diasporas a great way to increase the spread of Asian films in Australia. Moreover, the organization of Asian film festivals is a great way to show to locals other productions than the well-known American ones.

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