While it is good to have groups like Northern Filmmakers Association that “bear the voices of the entire north in the discussions of certain matters in the film ecosystem”, Thomas said they are not professional enough to make a global impact. Neither do the factions help the region to speak with one voice of its needs, rather projects dissenting voices, which discourages investors.
Addressing claims that the absence of notable northern filmmakers and actors at the festival, is a result of inadequate publicity, KADIFF founder and Executive Director, Israel Audu, said those with an understanding of the film culture need not be chased around by festival organizers to participate. With the festival in talks with the Israeli film institute NextGen Broadcast Media Solutions, one of its supporters, Audu is optimistic of building a collaboration that will span knowledge and equipment exchange to benefit the northern film industry.
“I do think the government needs to take the industry seriously but that has to be initiated by the practitioners. Unfortunately, film practitioners usually approach the government on individual basis. They go on courtesy visits, place the demand of the industry and go behind to pursue whatever it is they are able to get from officials. It plays down the value and respect of the industry,” added George.