Script development, distribution support and marketing have been in the focus of funding since the reform, Ágnes Havas said, adding that government commissioner Andy Vajna’s experience, ideas and strategic decisions also promoted the process.

The reform played a great role in the success of two Oscar-winning Hungarian films, that of Son of Saul in 2016 and short film Sing in 2017, she said.

The jury of seven, comprising producers, directors and university teachers, is to decide in September on the film Hungary enters into the race for the 2018 Academy Award, popularly known as the Oscar Prize.

According to the American Film Academy’s rules, one work is to be selected from the Hungarian films screened in the country between October 1, 2016 and September 30, 2017.

The academy is to announce the short list of nominees on January 23.

Republished with permission of Hungary Matters, MTI’s daily newsletter.