Indonesia’s film industry is set to receive a significant boost with the introduction of the government-funded film grant, Film Matchfund. This new initiative, announced at last year’s Cannes Film Festival, draws from the country’s Cultural Endowment Fund. The selected projects, including This City is a Battlefield, Crocodile Tears, Samsara, and Tale of The Land, have also received international support from renowned grants such as the Hubert-Bals Fund, CNC Cinema du Monde, World Cinema Fund, and Sørfond, totaling around $1.5M.
Hilmar Farid, Indonesia’s director-general of Culture at the Ministry of Education, emphasizes the importance of this grant in supporting Indonesian filmmakers in manifesting their creative ideas. He believes that the collaboration with foreign filmmakers will enhance the capacity of Indonesian filmmakers to work at world standards. The aim is to increase international networks, transfer expertise, and ultimately produce films that showcase Indonesia’s diversity to the world.
The Indonesian film category under the funding scheme supports co-production between Indonesian filmmakers and their foreign counterparts. This financial assistance can cover various expenses related to story development, research, production, post-production, promotion, and distribution incentives. The goal is to facilitate collaborative efforts that will elevate the quality of Indonesian cinema and promote cultural exchange on a global scale.
Alex Sihar, Special Staff to the Director-General of Culture, highlights the growing interest from foreign parties to collaborate with Indonesian producers under the matching fund scheme. This presents a unique opportunity for Indonesian filmmakers to tap into international resources and expertise, leveraging the funding support received from reputable grants to realize their creative vision. The four pilot projects selected will kickstart this process, paving the way for future collaborations and innovative storytelling in Indonesian cinema.
Overall, Indonesia’s Film Matchfund has the potential to revolutionize the local film industry by empowering filmmakers to push creative boundaries, engage in cross-cultural exchanges, and reach a wider global audience. This initiative not only provides financial support but also fosters a spirit of collaboration and innovation that is essential for the growth and sustainability of Indonesia’s film sector. With continued investment and strategic partnerships, Indonesian cinema is poised to make a significant impact on the international stage, showcasing the rich tapestry of stories and perspectives from this diverse and culturally vibrant nation.