Exclusive interview:
"Events like IFFI are not conducted by governments anywhere in the world; usually they are done by specialists..."
Says director of Wizcraft Entertainment Pvt Ltd Sabbas Joseph, in an exclusive interview to Ares, Daijiworld's special correspondent in Panaji
May 16, 2006
Goa government can take up the task of organizing IFFI only with the help of professionals. On its own, government cannot take it as it is not the job of governments and such an expenditure is always questioned, feels Sabbas Joseph, director, Wizcraft Entertainment Private Limited.
Sabbas spoke to daijiworld.com in Panaji. Wizcraft was the event management firm for IFFI 2005.
Excerpts:
Do you think that Goa government can organize IFFI on its own?
I don't think that such kind of events are done by governments anywhere in the world. Usually, they are done by specialists or associations who are involved in the film business.
Why such a rule?
You have to understand that such a linking or interaction with the film industry is a life-long exercise. It cannot be done overnight. Goa government is not involved in the business of film-making and hence it would be very difficult for them.
Who according to you should be consulted for IFFI?
Experts like us... other experts and well-wishers of film industry should be involved .
The government is talking of appointing a consultant. What's your reaction to that?
Maybe commissioning a consultant is a right step. But it all depends on the kind of consultant they choose. Contract for such consultancy should be for a longer period. The committment should be for a long term.
Can Goa be self-sustaining in conducting IFFI without relying on the Centre?
It all depends on how the festival is organized and quality achieved.
Will the government get the requisite sponsorships?
Whenever the government takes up any project, the sponsor are unwilling to get involved as the government does not deliver the goods to them, whereas they are more willing to get involved when it is a private enterprise.
So Goa does not stand an opportunity?
It's not like that. Goa government has lot of opportunities to conduct it (IFFI). But a lot more experience in this area is needed before someone takes on such a responsibility.