The European Film Academy is adding its voice to the growing calls for the immediate release of Belarusian filmmaker and activist Andrei Gnyot. Gnyot, who is currently being held in Serbia, is facing extradition back to Belarus, where he could potentially face imprisonment, torture, and even the death penalty. His arrest stems from his involvement in the 2020 anti-government protests, following what many believe were rigged elections that reinstated President Alexander Lukashenko for a sixth term.
While the official charges against Gnyot are related to tax evasion, his supporters argue that these accusations are purely politically motivated. The European Film Academy has labeled Gnyot as a political prisoner, highlighting the ongoing persecution of individuals who stand up against the Belarusian regime. The urgency of the situation cannot be overstated, with appeals being made to international organizations and human rights groups to intervene and prevent Gnyot’s extradition.
In a separate development within the film industry, True North Post, a renowned post-production company based in Leeds, is expanding its operations to Newcastle. The company, which has a history of working with major broadcasters such as the BBC, MTV, and Channel 4, sees this expansion as an opportunity to bring high-quality post-production services to the North East creative community.
The decision to open a new facility in Newcastle speaks to the increasing demand for film and television production services outside of traditional hubs like London. By partnering with Invest Newcastle and North East Screen, True North Post aims to not only provide top-tier services but also to invest in training and development initiatives that will benefit local talent and foster growth within the regional creative sector.
On a broader scale, the European Film Academy and 20 other film academies have joined forces to establish the Federation of Film Academies Europe (FACE). This new entity, set to be officially registered in Luxembourg, represents a formalization of the collaborative efforts that these academies have been engaging in since 2006 through the Film Academy Network Europe.
The founding members of FACE include a diverse array of academies from across Europe, reflecting the continent’s rich cultural and cinematic heritage. By coming together under the umbrella of FACE, these institutions aim to strengthen ties, share resources, and nurture the next generation of filmmakers. The launch of FACE marks a significant milestone in the evolution of film education and collaboration within Europe.
The challenges faced by individuals like Andrei Gnyot and the opportunities presented by initiatives such as True North Post’s expansion and the formation of FACE underscore the complex and dynamic nature of the film industry. As the landscape continues to evolve, it is crucial for stakeholders to remain vigilant, adaptable, and committed to upholding the values of creativity, freedom of expression, and human rights within the realm of cinema.