Weng Hsiao-ling proposes cutting NT$47.38 million; Golden Horse director slams move, saying it harms independent creators

A proposal by Kuomintang legislator Weng Hsiao-ling to cut NT$47.38 million from the Ministry of Culture's media promotion budget has sparked concern within Taiwan's film and cultural circles. The proposed budget reduction targets funds allocated for media promotion, drawing criticism from various figures in the creative industries.

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Of course, I don't agree.

A Golden Horse-winning director voiced strong disagreement with the proposal, emphasizing that the focus on major award ceremonies like the Golden Horse, Golden Bell, and Golden Melody Awards overlooks a more vulnerable group. He explained that the NT$47.38 million is part of the Ministry of Culture's overall cultural promotion budget, not solely for the "three awards." The director argued that cutting these funds would disproportionately affect smaller and medium-sized theater troupes, local arts festivals, independent films, and individual music creators who already struggle for media attention.

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If the focus of public discussion is only on the Golden Horse, Golden Bell, and Golden Melody Awards, it actually ignores the group of people who are truly impacted.

He further elaborated that non-mainstream artistic works inherently lack commercial resources and visibility compared to large-scale commercial productions. Without government promotional support, these works face even greater challenges in reaching audiences, potentially stifling creative space. The director stressed that cultural policy should not only support established brands but also ensure diverse creative endeavors have opportunities to be seen.

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These more than 47 million NT dollars do not just serve the 'three awards' activities; they are the Ministry of Culture's overall cultural promotion budget.

Additionally, the director pointed to the recent cultural voucher policy, which has encouraged young people to visit cinemas, theaters, and art venues, benefiting independent films and performing arts. However, he cautioned that without adequate promotion, many people might remain unaware of available artistic works, limiting the policy's effectiveness. He concluded by stating that the true beneficiaries of this promotional funding are often marginalized but vibrant creators, rather than those already in the spotlight.

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If relevant funding is cut, the first to be affected will not be the large-scale events that already have high visibility, but rather the small and medium-sized theater troupes, local arts festivals, independent films, and independent music creators who usually receive less media attention.