December 15, 2008

Putin to Chair Film Board

Variety is reporting some interesting news coming out of Russia. It appears that Russian Prime Minister Vladimir Putin is going to be the chairman of the government council on the progress of domestic cinematography. Interesting, no?

You know, I always say there is nothing like government involvement to foster the forward progress of the arts. All right, I've never said that and likely never will in any meaningful way. However, I am intrigued by the possibilities if nothing else. As one experienced Russian film industryite told Daily Variety, "As usual, nothing good will come of it."

In the Variety article there is talk of film as a tool for education and a point of reference for society. It also speaks of using innovative tools and fostering domestic and international releases. I am skeptical of government involvement as it generally leads to censorhip and a stifling of true creativity.

What this will mean in the long run I do not know, but it could be something to keep an eye on.

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