Exploring international co-productions is beneficial for filmmakers in many ways. Co-producing a film with partners from different countries provides access to additional funding sources, talent, locations, and distribution networks.
It also helps increase the film’s visibility and marketability on a global scale.
Additionally, international co-productions facilitate cultural exchange and collaboration, leading to a richer and more diverse creative process.
To propel Ghana’s film industry onto the global stage, the National Film Authority (NFA) CEO, Juliet Asante, has entreated local filmmakers to embrace international co-productions.
She held that the global film industry was evolving with international co-productions becoming increasingly popular, with many countries adopting this approach to boost their creative economies. She believes tilting towards that direction will unlock new markets, funding opportunities, and talent exchange for the country’s film industry.
Speaking on the sidelines of a ceremony to present grants to some selected filmmakers, she explained that co-productions would enable Ghanaian filmmakers to ride on the success of their international partners, expand their market reach and credibility, and similarly position the country as a key player in the global film industry.
“International co-productions offer a win-win situation where production companies from different countries share expertise, resources, and markets. It will equally allow our filmmakers to access new funding opportunities, technologies, and distribution channels.
“This collaboration will not only enhance the quality of Ghanaian content but also provide a platform for cultural exchange and storytelling. International co-productions have become the norm in the film industry and our filmmakers must seize this opportunity to showcase our unique perspectives and stories to a global audience.”
Juliet Asante
The NFA at a brief ceremony recently presented a €90,000 grant to talented filmmakers aimed at empowering them to bring their innovative storytelling ideas to life.
The grant was made possible through a collaborative partnership between Creation Africa Ghana (CAG), the International Organisation of Francophonie (OIF), and the NFA, under the EU-funded CLAP ACP initiative.
However, navigating the complexities of international co-productions requires careful planning, negotiation, and understanding of the legal and financial aspects involved.
Filmmakers must research and seek guidance from experienced professionals when considering this option.
Countries Involved in International Co-Productions in Africa
Several countries have been involved in international co-productions in Africa, either collaborating with African filmmakers or shooting films in African locations.
France has a long history of co-producing films with African countries. They have been involved in co-productions with countries like Senegal, Mali, Burkina Faso, and Ivory Coast. Notable examples include “Timbuktu” (2014), directed by Abderrahmane Sissako, and “Atlantics” (2019), directed by Mati Diop.
Germany has been active in co-productions with African countries, particularly with South Africa. Films like “The Gods Must Be Crazy” (1980), directed by Jamie Uys, and “District 9” (2009), directed by Neill Blomkamp, are examples of successful German-South African co-productions.
United Kingdom: The United Kingdom (UK) has also participated in international co-productions in Africa. For instance, “The Constant Gardener” (2005), directed by Fernando Meirelles and based on the novel by John le Carré, was a UK-Germany co-production shot in Kenya.
While the United States has not been as actively involved in co-productions in Africa as European countries, there have been notable collaborations. Films like “Hotel Rwanda” (2004), directed by Terry George, and “Beasts of No Nation” (2015), directed by Cary Joji Fukunaga, are examples of successful US-Africa co-productions.
There are certainly more countries exploring international co-productions in Africa. The collaborations aim to foster cultural exchange, support local filmmakers, and showcase African talent to global audiences.
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