By Yeo Ghim Lay

ASPIRING directors looking to make their first feature film could get a much-needed boost from a new fund that will sponsor promising movies.

The Singapore Film Commission (SFC), which celebrated its 10th anniversary yesterday, launched the fund, which will give up to $250,000 to each film.

While all Singaporeans and permanent resident directors can apply for funding, preference will be given to those who have no experience in helming feature films, said the government-run SFC.

SFC director Kenneth Tan said the commission believes Singapore has a pool of 'untapped creative talent'.

'We want to help nurture the next generation of aspiring film-makers with this new scheme and assist them as they hone their directing and story- telling skills,' said Mr Tan, who is also the chief operating officer of the Media Development Authority.

Those chosen will partner up with an experienced local production house, from which a producer will guide the director through the making of the film.

For newbie directors who succeed in securing funding, the SFC will throw in up to $20,000 extra for promoting the movie.

To make sure that the films do not go unnoticed, movie distributor Golden Village plans to show them in theatres here and work to have them screened overseas.

News of the fund was welcomed by film-makers looking to make their first full-length film.

Mr Jacen Tan, 25, who has directed five short films, said: 'It's good that the SFC is not just offering funding for the film, but also making sure that the films will be screened.'

Film-makers might also receive a cut of the films' profits.

Those who are interested in applying for the fund must submit their proposals to the SFC by July 31.

This article was first published in The Straits Times on Jun 12, 2008

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