Because of deep cuts in funding, feature length fiction films and animated films of any length already in production are receiving priority this year, along with documentaries in development or in production.

In addition, a project to make Latvian movies available online through libraries will receive funding.

The NFC (www.nfc.lv) reported that over €2.7 million in Eurimages funds has gone to Latvian films between 2002-2008. Latvian filmmakers were encouraged to seek Eurimages funding in the wake of cuts which were projected to drop by 33% in 2009. Funding for film productiion reached €4.6 million in 2008.

On another topic, the NFC highlighted the need to join forces with filmmakers and industry professionals to encourage the Latvian government to improve financial conditions for foreign filmmakers shooting in Latvia and using local production services.