The Icelandic Film Fund has supported Icelandic film production since it was established in 1979. The Fund's primary focus is financially supporting filmmakers in Iceland in creating films that have cultural and societal relevance in Iceland. The Fund emphasizes the development of the Icelandic film culture and supports various forms of films at several stages of film production, from script writing to production and promotion. It engages in activities such as promotion of the films within Iceland or in foreign countries, in addition to supporting local film festivals, seminars and workshops where local and foreign professionals, as well as aspiring filmmakers, are given the opportunity to form connections with one another and exchange information. The Fund has also placed particular emphasis on supporting production of children's material, aiming to ensure that at least one project specifically aimed at children be produced each year, as per the policy of Icelandic filmmaking for the years 2016-2019. The same policy also emphasizes continuing support specifically for individuals new to the industry.
Formulation of the Icelandic filmmaking policy for 2020-2030 is currently in progress. This will be the first time in Iceland that a comprehensive policy and a plan of action on its basis is formed. The policy will address the role of filmmaking in Icelandic culture, film education on all levels, promotion of Icelandic films and support in the production of films. This policy is currently being formed by a team appointed by the Ministry of Education, Science and Culture who actively collaborate with stakeholders in Icelandic film making.
The Icelandic Film Fund has been instrumental in supporting Icelandic film makers in completing their film related projects. This adds depth to the cultural landscape in Iceland as well as increasing awareness of Icelandic culture in foreign nations where the films may be viewed. In the year 2019, a total of 180 applications for some form of support were received by the Fund, with 92 of those projects receiving funding, a 51% success ratio. That same year, 10 Icelandic films and 6 Icelandic documentaries premiered in theatres. Numerous films supported by the Icelandic Film Fund have been selected to participate in various international film festivals.
Fiscal support by the Icelandic Film Fund allows Icelandic filmmakers the opportunity to create culturally relevant and meaningful material to enhance the local culture. This equally gives foreign individuals in other countries further opportunities to be introduced to Icelandic culture and expand their own personal cultural scope.
In 2019, a total of 8,126,831 USD were allocated to the fund (1,109.8 million ISK) from the State Treasury.
| Name of partner | Type of entity |
|---|---|
Icelandic Film Centre
| Public Sector
|
The Ministry of Education, Science and Culture
| Public Sector
|