In December 2015 a co-production treaty for the production of audio-visual works was signed between South Africa and the Netherlands. The treaty was put in place to enhance and facilitate the co-production of films and other creative media productions between the two countries, in the aim of stimulating the industries and the development of cultural and economic exchanges in both countries.
At the 2016 Durban FilmMart (DFM), taking place in conjunction with the Durban International Film Festival (DIFF) the National Film and Video Foundation (NFVF) presented a co-production dialogue between industry professionals from Sotuh Africa and the Netherlands. The panel included Terrence Khumalo, from the NFVF, he introduced the panel: Frank Peijenburg and Pieter van Huijstee from the Netherlands, and Marc Schwinges from SA.
Peijenburg began by conferring the facts and figures of the Dutch film industry. He said that in Holland they have 265 cinemas, with 893 screens where 369 films are released in the Netherlands each year, meaning that 60 per cent is Dutch, with 33 million visitors to the country, and a box officer of 275 million Euros where 18 to 20 per cent goes to Dutch films.
“Co-production is very important for a small country,’ said Peijenburg. “It’s important to build a relationship with other countries and it’s a little bit of our claim to fame, we are proud of it.’ He explained the 30 per cent cash rebate and tax incentive. Each year 20 million US has to be spent in the Netherlands, and they are hoping to open this spend up to the TV market.
There are 15 to 20 co-productions a year. The Netherlands work with neighbouring countries and have existing treaties with France, Canada, Germany, China, Belgium and SA. “We support marketing and distribution for foreign films,’ said Peijenburg, further pointing out why a treaty is an advantage. He added, “There is access to support schemes in both countries. It is important for marketing and distribution, it opens up production, offers more creative and technical cooperation, broadens networks and helps crossing the borders.’
Van Huijstee said, “Holland is good in two things, skating and documentary film making.’ He believes that documentaries are an ideal way to tell stories and build bridges. “Co-producing gives me the opportunity to work with others. Holland is often too direct and practical,’ which is why he likes working with South Africans. He met Schwinges at International Documentary Film Festival (IFDA), and the two are now working on a co-production.
Schwinges said that one should consider joining the DFA and Hotdocs, and consider applying for the travel grants they offer. “Going gives you exposure and an opportunity to meet people.’
“The greatness of storytelling is that everyone can relate it to themselves,’ said van Huijstee about working on a South African story about a South African journey with a target audience in Holland. “You can make a great documentary that can be shown everywhere and inspire many people but you need a co-production and that co-operation to make it happen.’
After the panels discussion a Q&A was opened to the audience. Wherein the question about whether the film needs to be shot entirely in SA or can be shot throughout Africa were answered. The panel explained that any spend outside of SA would be precluded from funding. However, if shot within the country the story could be a Chinese story as long as it has an SA interest along with a strong artistic and international appeal.
It was further stated that should a South African wish to be in a co-production to contact the NFVF first, and they will further advise on co-producing and how and who to contact.
For more information visit the NFVF website. Or the Netherlands Film Fund website.
