The European Film Academy recently raised concerns over the plight of Belarusian filmmaker and activist Andrei Gnyot, who is currently detained in Serbia and faces the threat of extradition to Belarus. Gnyot’s involvement in the 2020 protests against the allegedly rigged elections that kept President Alexander Lukashenko in power has put him at odds with the Belarusian regime. While officially accused of tax evasion, Gnyot’s supporters argue that the charges are politically motivated. The European Film Academy has warned of the severe consequences that Gnyot might face if returned to Belarus, including imprisonment, torture, and even the death penalty. The Academy has called for international organizations and human rights groups to intervene and prevent Gnyot’s extradition.
True North Post’s Expansion to Newcastle
Leeds-based post-production company True North Post is expanding its operations to Newcastle, opening a new facility in the city center. The move represents a strategic decision by the 20-year-old company to establish a presence in the vibrant North East creative community. True North Post’s partnership with Invest Newcastle and North East Screen underscores its commitment to nurturing local talent and creating new opportunities in the region. The proximity to regional and national transport links positions the new studio for growth and collaboration with a range of industry partners, including the BBC, MTV, Discovery, Channel 4, and Sky.
Formation of the Federation of Film Academies Europe
The European Film Academy (EFA) has spearheaded the creation of the Federation of Film Academies Europe (FACE), in collaboration with 20 film academies across the continent. This pan-European initiative aims to formalize the existing relationships between member academies and enhance cooperation within the European film industry. The establishment of FACE as an official entity registered in Luxembourg marks a significant milestone in the evolution of the EFA-led Film Academy Network Europe. By bringing together film academies from countries such as Austria, Belgium, Catalonia, Czech Republic, Germany, Greece, Israel, Luxembourg, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Spain, Switzerland, and Ukraine, FACE seeks to strengthen the educational and cultural exchange within the European film community.
The European film industry is facing a mix of challenges and opportunities, as highlighted by recent developments in the sector. The case of Andrei Gnyot underscores the importance of protecting filmmakers and activists who are targeted for their political beliefs. The expansion of True North Post to Newcastle demonstrates the company’s commitment to supporting local talent and fostering creativity in new regions. Finally, the formation of the Federation of Film Academies Europe signals a collective effort to promote collaboration and innovation across European film academies. As the industry continues to evolve, these initiatives will play a crucial role in shaping the future of European cinema.
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