Popular British comedian David Walliams has been announced as the host of the first-ever Malta Film Awards.
Walliams, known for taking part in the sketch comedy Little Britain and for his role as a judge on Britain’s Got Talent, will add international star power to the awards, which will take place on January 29 at the Mediterranean Conference Centre.
However, his appointment as host has been criticized on the grounds that a foreign presenter will host a show specifically intended to promote and celebrate the Maltese film industry.
The Malta Film Awards will see 18 awards presented to actors, directors, producers, writers and designers who have played a part in the local film industry over the years.
However, the festival’s €400,000 budget has been the subject of controversy among several film industry players, as only €600,000 has been allocated to the entire annual budget of the national Screen Film Fund.
Some key filmmakers – including Simshar director Rebecca Cremona and Martin Bonnici of Is-Sriep Reġgħu Saru Velenużi – boycotted the event.
Cover photo: Britian’s Got Talent
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