Filmmakers React to Ministry of Culture's Demand for Return of Documentary Support
Hundreds of filmmakers and organizations published a joint statement against the ministry's demand for the return of documentary production support with interest.
Following the Ministry of Culture and Tourism's demand for the return of support provided to director Bingöl Elmas's documentary with interest, 215 filmmakers and 10 organizations published a joint statement.
Support Demanded Back
The General Directorate of Cinema of the Ministry of Culture and Tourism demanded the return of the production support it provided for director Bingöl Elmas's documentary titled "Şiirli Oda'nın İzinde," which focuses on the struggle in Cappadocia, along with interest.
Reasoning Sparks Debate
While the ministry explained the reason for rejection in an official letter as script incompatibility and technical inadequacy, the director stated that the film was targeted because it contained political criticisms.
Joint Statement Published
215 names, including associations, festivals, unions, and numerous filmmakers, along with 10 organizations, signed a joint statement to react against the decision.
Emphasis on Self-Censorship
Filmmakers stated that demanding funds back forces the sector and artists into self-censorship, arguing that the decisions are not transparent and official justifications conceal the real reasons.
Similar Processes Experienced
In 2022, the support provided for Emin Alper's award-winning film "Burning Days" was also demanded back with legal interest on similar grounds.