Film festival backer pulls out funding

The Edinburgh International Film Festival faces uncertainty over its funding after a major contributor announced it can no longer financially support the event.

The British Film Institute, the lead body for film funding and support, made the decision after the EIFF celebrated its 65th anniversary this year, it was reported today.

The festival, which this year featured the films Meet Monica Velour – starring Kim Cattrall – and the Kings of Leon documentary Talihina Sky, struggled with budget constraints and fewer films were screened.

A £1.8 million grant over three years from the British Film Institute ended last year.

The BFI has reportedly said it was happy to enter discussions with the EIFF, but only about support in other ways.

The body is in the process of reviewing its film strategy and its national approach to funding film festivals.