Cinema Movement Demands Open Dialogue Amid Ministerial Interference

Georgia, 8 March 2024: The cinema movement has issued an appeal to both the public broadcaster and “Imedi” TV company, due to the tensions between independent filmmakers and government authorities. They demand an open platform to address the ongoing crisis gripping the film industry.

Independent filmmakers have raised concerns about the undue influence of the government on cultural policy and the suppression of dissent within the film community.

Affected by public interest and a sense of urgency, the cinema movement is calling for transparent discussions to shed light on the events unfolding at the cinema center and the nine-month-long protest staged by cinematographers. The main part of their demands is the immediate allocation of airtime for TV debates, allowing representatives of the cinema movement and cultural policymakers to engage in constructive dialogue.

In reaction to this biased media coverage and deliberate misinformation, the cinema movement has issued a direct challenge to “Imedi” TV, urging them to uphold journalistic standards and provide equal opportunity for both sides to present their perspectives. 

The cinema movement’s insistence on live broadcasting reflects a deep-seated distrust of traditional media outlets, which they blame for manipulating their statements to fit a predetermined narrative. By advocating for unfiltered access to the airwaves, they hope to bypass any potential censorship and ensure that their voices are heard without distortion or suppression.

The cinema movement sees itself as a guardian of these values, resisting attempts by the government to stifle dissent and control the narrative surrounding the film industry.

Imedi TV Company

Imedi Media Holding is a private television and radio company in Georgia. The stations were founded by the Georgian media tycoon Badri Patarkatsishvili. The station mainly concentrates on news and analytical coverage but broadcasts pop music as well, particularly at night time. Imedi means “hope” in Georgian.