Dati's Appointment as Culture Minister Sparks Debate Over Future of France's Film Subsidies
• Rachida Dati, a conservative politician, was appointed France's new Culture Minister, provoking backlash from the left-leaning film/TV industry
• Dati aims to defend France’s model of “cultural exception” where diverse filmmaking is supported through subsidies
• Some believe Dati signals an ideological shift prioritizing profitability and private financing over public support
• As a prominent minister, Dati could give culture real political power, but her commitment is uncertain after frequent turnover
• Producers urge continued support for smaller, diverse films, though hits like “Anatomy of a Fall” show these can succeed