South Asian filmmakers and experts on Saturday stressed the need for cooperation in the region in the art and film sector under the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).
During a discourse held in Kathmandu as part of the ongoing Nepal International Film Festival, the film makers and critics said new exchanges in the areas of art, culture and film making is possible under the China-proposed initiative.
Tsering Ritar Sherpa, a film maker from Nepal, said cooperation in the film industry is highly beneficial and can take the cinema market of the region into a new height.
"There is a possibility of co-production of movies, funding, joint ventures and many more between China and South Asian nations. We should grab the opportunity of BRI and move forward together," Sherpa said.
He added that the creative team including director, writer, cinematographer and technicians of different countries can work together for the best outputs, which can lead to high revenue collection.
Indian film critic and activist Premendra Mazumder said it is a good sign that Indian movies, especially Bollywood movies with high-end stars, are getting a good exposure in China in recent years.
"A few Indian films have become very popular in China lately. We can work together so that many good films can be produced for the audiences," said Mazumder.
The panelists also discussed the possibilities of sharing the skills and latest technology of China under joint venture and co-production in the region.
"It's not only about providing the budget. We can have partnership in shooting locations, equipments, technical skills and the market," actor and director from Bangladesh Ishtiaque Zico said.
Chinese professor Qiao Liang from Beijing Film Academy said BRI encourages production of good movies, featuring diverse cultures, customs and stories of the region.
"We welcome foreign film directors and students to work together with us. The only important thing is we need good stories," said the Chinese professor.
The discourse, attended by film enthusiasts and students, was organized by Nepal Film and Cultural Academy.
