http://news.xin.msn.com/en/singapore/spore-filmmakers-may-receive-more-government-support#scpshrtu
The Media Development Authority (MDA) is undertaking a complete review of its various schemes with the aim of giving an additional boost to the local movie industry.
Some may emerge as early as April next year, and the focus this time will likely be on helping filmmakers market their work better.
Industry players Channel NewsAsia spoke with welcomed greater state support, but said that is only one piece of the puzzle.
“Ilo Ilo” had made waves recently, putting Singapore on the global movie map. The film clinched the Camera d'Or prize for best debut feature at the 2013 Cannes Film Festival.
Months later, it also won four Golden Horse awards for Best Feature Film, Best New Director, Best Original Screenplay and Best Supporting Actress.
Back in 1995, only two local films were commercially released -- one of them was director Eric Khoo's “Mee Pok Man.”
The movie earned critical acclaim overseas and is regarded to be the piece of work that led to the revival of the Singapore film industry.
And there was no looking back, as local movies came out year after year, covering genres from slapstick to art house.
Making a movie is one thing, but marketing it is another, and authorities are looking at how to give filmmakers a bigger push in that area.
Success, especially at the box office, does not come easy. Distributors and cinemas are picky about which films to screen.
Filmmaking is difficult as a craft, but arguably tougher as a business. After all, there are only about 230 screens in Singapore for a population of 5.4 million.
But there are those willing to give local cinema a fighting chance.
Terence Heng, vice president (Media) at Shaw Organisation, said: "The Singapore perception about local film is getting better than before. And with that, once there's some publicity about the films being available in the cinemas, then you shouldn't wait.
"You shouldn't wait till second week... you should just immediately try to go and support the film as early as possible. Because that helps make sure that the movie gets to have a longer run."
And with 18 local titles being released in 2014, filmmakers may just have a shot at striking critical acclaim, and also, box office gold.
Local filmmakers will have to work even harder to convince audiences that Singapore cinema can be a sweet experience, and also, worth their salt.
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