BC’s film industry upset over spending on Indian film awards

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VANCOUVER (NEWS1130) – It’s being billed as a three day, star-studded, gala celebration of Bollywood’s best, right here in Vancouver.

But some in BC’s struggling film industry are upset the province is spending $11 million to host the Times of India Film Awards in April.

Premier Clark says hosting the Awards will bring in anywhere from $13 million to $18 million.

But on local movie sets, workers like Troy tell News1130 they’re not buying it.

“It seems almost like a slap in the face from the Liberal government to the film industry because they’re refusing to support their local, indigenous industry, the people who live and work here, in this province.”

Some feel that money would be much better spent on film industry incentives to help get the unemployed back on sets.

“As an industry worker, it’s great they’re bringing the business here. But who’s paying the bill? We are! And we’re hurting right now. We need the incentives,” Sandy tells News1130.

The Times of India Film Awards will feature a concert at Pacific Coliseum, film screenings throughout Metro Vancouver, and an awards gala at BC Place with performances by top Indian celebrities, April 4-6.

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