Algerian Radio
The importance of documentary film in preserving collective memory, as well as the necessity of adopting an integrated future approach that reconciles commercial cinema with auteur cinema, were at the center of the third participatory meeting uniting the Minister of Culture and Arts, Malika Bendouda, with film professionals, according to a Ministry press release published on Wednesday.
Hosted at the Ministry of Culture and Arts headquarters in Algiers, this meeting with leading professionals of the "7th Art" aimed to "concretize a practical and strategic vision for the revival of Algerian cinema, ensuring the production of high-quality works and the cultivation of a conscious and active audience capable of supporting national cinematic creativity and elevating it to local and international levels."
Participants addressed "the importance of documentary film as a major form of cinematic expression, as well as its role in observing social reality, safeguarding collective memory, and accompanying societal changes."
The press release indicates that "the necessity of adopting a comprehensive approach in the future that combines commercial and auteur cinema in order to revitalize the Algerian film economy—while preserving public taste and elevating the artistic and aesthetic value of the works"—was also highlighted during the meeting.
Furthermore, the filmmakers discussed "innovative models for the operation of movie theaters," specifically regarding "opening up to qualified private operators." This would be done in accordance with rigorous specifications to guarantee "quality management, the continuity of activity, and the creation of an economic environment favorable to the development of a sustainable national film industry."
The "role of film clubs (ciné-clubs) in animating the cultural scene, expanding the base of film enthusiasts, and building an aesthetic and critical consciousness, particularly among the youth," was also among the significant aspects of the meeting. Participants also discussed "accompanying screenings with debates and analyses" to foster a "culture of thoughtful viewing," and emphasized the importance of "supporting these clubs by framing their activities to strengthen the presence of cinema in the public cultural space."
In this context, Ms. Bendouda valued the "central role" of the Federation of Film Clubs as a unifying organizational framework charged with coordinating efforts, unifying programs, and strengthening cooperation between different clubs across the country, thereby enabling the development of a structured and sustainable cultural film project.
The Minister reiterated her department's readiness to "accompany and support these initiatives in a way that strengthens cultural participation and broadens the film audience base."
The Minister of Culture and Arts had previously held similar meetings with representatives of the film industry in Algeria. During those sessions, she addressed several key axes for the improvement and development of cinematic activity, ranging from the stage of narrative creation to public distribution in its aesthetic and sociological dimensions.
