Cinema keeps history alive: Italian culture minister

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Cinema is a fundamental pillar of culture that keeps history alive, Italian Culture and Tourism Minister Massimo Bray said Monday.

Bray made the remarks on the sidelines of the Venice Film Festival that runs from Aug. 28 to Sept. 7.

"Culture certainly has a social role of growth, awareness and historical memory in a country that too often risks forgetting these values," Bray told Xinhua, recalling the unique historical asset of the 70-year-old Venice Film Festival.

Bray also said cinema internationalization plays a fundamental role. Italy and China have started collaboration which can lead to important exchanges and co-production.

The minister highlighted his confidence in cinema. "I would like to give much more space to cinematographic schools and film professionals. I hope this field is perceived again as one of Italy's cultural excellences."

Besides government, which is in charge of supporting cinema, Italian private sectors are encouraged to take care of this extraordinary patrimony which belongs to everybody according to the Constitution, Bray said.

The government has provided 10 million euros (13 million U.S dollars) for the Venice Film Festival, but "we need to work harder by pursuing quality products, helping emerging talents and dealing with new technologies that are becoming more and more important," he said.

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