Directors, actors protest film bill

In action: A group of film directors and actors put a bucket of flowers at the House of Representatives building in a show of protest against the House's passage of a film bill into law. They said Tuesday the bill was flawed as it restricted creativity and freedom in film industry. -- JP/Hans David

A number of directors and actors, including noted film makers Riri Riza and Nia Dinata, staged a protest Tuesday against the House of Representatives’ plenary session to pass the controversial film bill.
 
"What we want is a bill that will protect the freedom of film industry stake holders," Riri told reporters at the House building. "However, the essence of this bill is nothing but more and more censorship"

Riri also said he regretted the fact that the House did not sufficiently involve film industry stake holders during the deliberation of the bill.

"We did attend a hearing with the House on Aug. 31. Surprisingly, it took the House only eight days to endorse such a crucial bill without any further discussion or process," he said.

The bill has come under heavy criticism from film stake holders for allegedly restricting film content, creativity and freedom of expression.

Cultural and Tourism Minister Jero Wacik, however, has jumped to the defense of the bill. (hdt)