Eurimages is introducing a new award to recognize superlative female filmmakers. Valued at 30,000 euros (over $32,000), the prize will launch at an upcoming film festival yet to be announced. The woman director to receive the honor hasn’t been determined at this time.
This is not the first measure the European film fund has taken towards addressing gender inequality. Since 2013, producers applying to the fund have been required to specify the gender of key cast and crew members in an effort to diversify the European film industry, both on screen and behind the scenes.
“Eurimages wishes to build on the experience gained by its study group over two and a half years on gender equality,” said Isabel Castro, deputy director of Eurimages. “For me, one of the landmark moments was the Board of Management’s adoption of a gender equality strategy and action plan at our October 2015 meeting. This ensures that we will lead the way in ringing the changes regarding gender equality in the European film industry.”
At this point it’s unclear whether the award will be a one-off or awarded on a regular basis.
[via Variety]
