FAB yet to recover since the Covid-19  pandemic 

Thinley Namgay

The Bhutanese film industry, going by production, decline in membership and the migration of people in the industry, including actors, has not recovered post Covid-19 pandemic.

 Membership under the Film Association of Bhutan (FAB) is on a steady decline,  from nearly 1,000 pre-Covid-19 to around 100 today, according to FAB data. The number of operational production houses has decreased from over 200 to around 70. Moreover, film production has declined from 25-30 films annually to just about six a year today.  

FAB noted that many members have gone abroad, though it lacks data to support the claim. An official from FAB said many in the film fraternity are struggling to survive, and anxiety over the end of government monetary measures is leading to a loss of talented professionals.  

Understanding the film industry’s role in promoting cultural heritage and employment, Sergithang Tsirangtoed’s MP Lhakpa Tshering Tamang questioned Home Minister Tshering at the National Assembly yesterday about the government’s plans to support the industry.

Home Minister Tshering said various activities would be implemented by the government in the 13th Plan for the film industry. He said that one issue is the lack of adequate movie theaters in the country. “Two more movie theaters will be started by the government in the 13th Plan.”

The government also plans to establish a film city and studios to ensure filmmakers have the required facilities. Lyonpo Tshering informed the house that the government would provide financial support for the annual film awards, meetings, and participation in international film fairs.

“The government will support at least six films a year financially and a guideline was framed to help the film fraternity when they visit dzongkhags, dungkhags, and gewogs for film screenings,” said Lyonpo.

Meanwhile, actor Jigme Wangchuk highlighted the lack of halls for screening films outside Thimphu, budget constraints, and the lack of upskilling programmes as major issues.  

He said that film production costs between Nu 1.5 million (M) and 8M, depending on the story and locations. 

FAB’s Vice President Yeshey Tshering expressed concern about film professionals leaving the country, creating a huge talent vacuum.

On the reduction of FAB members, Yeshey Tshering said it does not mean people do not want to be part of FAB, but diverse situations, such as financial constraints, force them to leave.

The previous government granted a 10-year tax holiday for filmmakers, which Yeshey Tshering said was encouraging. He said the present government also agreed to support the film industry in terms of funding and infrastructure.

FAB has requested the government, Royal Monetary Authority, and financial institutions to defer loan repayments for at least six months to a year. “Loan deferment would help filmmakers focus on their work. Financial pressure hampers creativity and risks more people going abroad,” Yeshey Tshering said.

Regarding the meager market for films within the country, Yeshey Tshering said quality and marketing should not be compromised. “Considering the Bhutanese diaspora, we also have the opportunity to screen films in other countries. Four films screened abroad did well.”