We have already reported on the Edinburgh International Film Festival’s decision to return a grant from the Israeli Embassy.

To coincide with the beginning of the Festival, several film industry figures have come together to support the Israeli filmmakers and criticise the Festival organisers. Their letter is below:

Sir, The Edinburgh International Film Festival has always been a highlight of the British creative calendar. This year, with so many people talking about a new golden age of British cinema, there is even greater excitement around the festival. Continue reading ‘Film Industry attacks the Edinburgh Film Festival’ »

Yesterday’s Times reported that Sir Jeremy Isaacs condemned the Edinburgh International Film Festival’s decision to return a £300 grant from the Israeli Embassy.

“I have admired the Edinburgh International Film Festival for many years and would like to think that this appalling decision will be rescinded.”

Lord Janner said

“By banning the Israeli Embassy from supporting a film-maker the festival is helping to exclude Israelis from British cultural life, something that is clearly unfair.”

In one piece of good news, though, the Festival has agreed to pay Tali Shalom Ezer’s travel costs out of its own pocket. This is something we called on them to do. Ironically, therefore, Ken Loach’s protest means that rather than the Israeli embassy, the Edinburgh International Film Festival is now directly supporting Israeli culture.

Finally, on the 19th of May, the Scotsman‘s Leader condemned the EIFF and Ken Loach. As it does not appear on the Scotsman website, we reproduce it below: Continue reading ‘More on the Edinburgh Film festival’ »

Some media coverage of the SOAS-sponsored report that mentions the Fair Play Campaign Group:

• Jerusalem Post
• Jewish Telegraphic Association