Industry abuzz
EVER since it was announced that Datuk Kamil Othman had been appointed director-general of Finas (National Film Development Corporation), the film and TV industry has been positively buzzing. Many have high hopes of seeing effective changes which have been long needed in the industry. Here’s what some industry folks say:
Hassan Muthalib, animation pioneer and film historian “WITH his success in moving the local creative content industry – animation in particular, to the international arena – Kamil is the right person for the post.
“With his positive attitude, global mindset and understanding of cinema, he can set the right vision and bring the correct strategies to rejuvenate the film industry which is at its lowest level currently.
“Unlike previous heads, he is a hands-on man who goes down to the industry level to meet the players rather than sit in an air-conditioned office, conduct meetings from time to time and then make decisions. If he is given a free hand without any political interference, he is going to succeed like no other Finas DG.”
Dain Said, director ( Bunohan) “I BElIEVE he’s someone who really wants to do something for the industry, which is really to create an effective ecosystem for the industry. I hear there are plans to streamline various organisations and make them connect, which is, of course, a good start.”
R. Daven, cinematographer “I THINK he is a fair and unbiased director-general. I think right now he is studying
the situation, doing his homework, and he will get things done when he thinks something can be implemented firmly and without loopholes. I believe he is a great film lover, and he will give opportunities to young filmmakers and not just the existing ones.”
Datuk Paduka Shuhaimi Baba, director “A lOT of things need to change so that we can meet the transformations that we all want. I believe Kamil has the right experience. We need creative leadership at the top. We need to give him a lot of space, and also give him a hand. He himself also realises that he has a lot to do.
“There is a lot of planning to be done for content, digital development and marketing our products overseas. I also hope there will be changes to our box-office structure as for a long time it has been advantageous only to the exhibitors.”
Nandita Solomon, producer “IT’S not an easy task that he has, but he has good management experience in MDeC, supporting and nurturing an industry, which is what the film industry needs. I think he’s a bit of a maverick, which is great.
“He reaches out to the various layers of the local industry, is open to new ideas and ways of doing things, and has a good sense of international practices. Best of all, he loves cinema!”
Tan Chui Mui, independent filmmaker ( Love Conquers All) “I FIND it positive and hopeful. (Kamil) has already met with the industry people a few times. For me, his most important quality is, he is a cinema lover who has good taste in film. I’ve seen too many talented filmmakers leave the scene. I hope to see more opportunities for the talented people in Malaysia.”