Gilliam slams 'Avatar' for taking funding from smaller films

Terry Gilliam has blasted ‘Avatar’ for limiting the opportunities of less successful filmmakers.

Terry Gilliam has blasted ‘Avatar’ for limiting the opportunities of less successful filmmakers.

The ‘12 Monkeys’ director said James Cameron’s epic 3-D blockbuster – now the biggest grossing film in history – cost so much to make, it meant many other projects missed out on funding.

He said: “There are so many small, beautiful film-makers and actors and directors with so much potential that just can't get a look in because the studios are pumping all their money into these huge projects.

"There are such incredible lower-budget films that are magical, but we've got our work cut out with things like ‘Avatar’ coming out.

“How are these young talents supposed to get a look in without the budget? That's the sad thing, because they are just as good."

‘Avatar’ cost a rumoured $300 million to make, and has pioneered new 3-D technology in cinema, but film critic Barry Norman suggested this doesn’t mean it should automatically win awards.

He added: “‘Avatar’ will win all the awards this year, not that it deserves to.

“James Cameron's films are designed to make money and that they do well. The films that make the most money are not the best films."

more courts articles

Man admits killing Irish pensioner (87) on mobility scooter in London Man admits killing Irish pensioner (87) on mobility scooter in London
Former DUP leader Jeffrey Donaldson arrives at court to face sex charges Former DUP leader Jeffrey Donaldson arrives at court to face sex charges
Case against Jeffrey Donaldson to be heard in court Case against Jeffrey Donaldson to be heard in court

More in this section

Stressed business woman overworked in office Natural Health: I'm perimenopausal and find it difficult to focus at work
Smartwatch with health app. Glowing neon icon on brick wall background Health watch: How much health data is healthy? 
Cork's wild salmon warrior Sally Ferns Barnes looks to the future Cork's wild salmon warrior Sally Ferns Barnes looks to the future
ieParenting Logo
Writers ieParenting

Our team of experts are on hand to offer advice and answer your questions here

Your digital cookbook

ieStyle Live 2021 Logo
ieStyle Live 2021 Logo

IE Logo
Outdoor Trails

Discover the great outdoors on Ireland's best walking trails

IE Logo
Outdoor Trails

Lifestyle
Newsletter

The best food, health, entertainment and lifestyle content from the Irish Examiner, direct to your inbox.

Sign up
Cookie Policy Privacy Policy Brand Safety FAQ Help Contact Us Terms and Conditions

© Examiner Echo Group Limited