Reversing earlier decisions, the Dutch government has announced its continued support of the Hubert Bals Fund of the International Film Festival Rotterdam.

The Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs has initially rejected the fund's subsidy application for 2009-2012, but now Bert Koenders, the Minister of Development Cooperation, has asked the Fund to continue its work. It's not yet known what the government will do to back the initiative, however.

'The fund offers audiences the opportunity to see high quality films from southern countries and filmmakers a platform leading to worldwide recognition of their works,' Koenders said.

Hubert Bals Fund Manager Bianca Taal responded: 'This is a very positive decision, although the actual amount of subsidy and specific conditions have yet to be determined. The future of the Hubert Bals Fund however is secure now.'

The Hubert Bals Fund provides grants for script development, digital production, post production or distribution to independent film makers in developing countries. The Hubert Bals Fund has many notable alumni, including the 2007 Cannes competition title 4 Months, 3 Weeks and 2 Days by Romania's Cristian Mungiu and Directors Fortnight selection Mutum by Sandra Kogut from Brazil.

On May 14, the fund will announce the projects selected in its Spring funding round.

Topics