President Shavkat Mirziyoyev reviewed a presentation on introducing modern management practices in the film industry and creating the national film brand “O‘zbekfilm”.
Cinema plays an important role in the country’s social and cultural life and serves as an effective means of promoting its history, national values and modern achievements.
In recent years, attention to the sector has increased significantly. Ten presidential decrees and resolutions have been adopted, while budget support for film production has increased severalfold over the past decade.
The state monopoly in the film industry has ended, and private film studios have begun operating. Films dedicated to historical figures and the development of national identity have been produced, modern film pavilions have been established, and major projects are being implemented jointly with foreign partners.
The President noted that despite the measures taken, a number of shortcomings remain in the sector. In particular, he noted the weakening of the Uzbek school of cinema, established by renowned Uzbek directors and distinguished by its psychological and philosophical depth. He also highlighted the growing number of films with superficial plots, a shortage of high-quality screenplays, and a breakdown in generational continuity in such areas as cinematography, sound engineering and editing.
New leadership was recently appointed at the Cinematography Agency. The agency was tasked with introducing modern management practices, establishing a transparent system for allocating state funding and grants, creating conditions for auteur cinema, and addressing a number of other issues.
An analysis found that among the 181 projects currently planned for production, themes and historical periods are often repeated, the same creative professionals are involved in several projects simultaneously, and some studios and creative teams lack the necessary experience.
It was noted that fulfilling the approved production plan, rather than the popularity of released films and their recognition by audiences, has become the main measure of the agency’s performance. In addition, a system for film marketing, distribution and international sales has yet to be established.
During the presentation, a number of initiatives were put forward to introduce modern management practices in the film industry and create the national film brand “O‘zbekfilm”. In particular, it was proposed to abolish the Cinematography Agency, 19 organizations within its system and the Cinematography Fund, transfer their functions to the Ministry of Culture, and put the vacated buildings up for auction.
The national film company “O‘zbekfilm” will be established with the Ministry of Culture as its founder and will serve as the main operator in the film industry. The state-commissioning system for film production will be abolished, with the company financing projects through budget subsidies allocated to it.
The proposals also provide for the establishment of a modern Dubbing Center equipped with a recording studio using Dolby Atmos technology.
The President approved the proposals and instructed responsible officials to accelerate the introduction of modern management practices in the film industry, ensure creative freedom, expand the production of films with high-quality screenplays and real-life stories, and restore the international standing of the Uzbek school of cinema.