Israel Film Fund executive director Katriel Schory received the Berlinale Camera award at the 68th Berlin International Film Festival on Tuesday for his contribution to Israeli, European and world cinema.
Alberto Barbera, the director of the Venice Film Festival, said Schory had taken the Israeli film industry to unprecedented levels.
"In the 1980s, it was hard to find good Israeli movies," Barbera said. "Everything changed after Katriel was appointed to head the Israel Film Fund. The quality of Israeli movies reached the levels of movies from countries that are powerhouses in the field of filmmaking. The direction was far bolder."
In his acceptance speech, Schory cautiously addressed threats to the freedom of expression and creation in Israel.
"Israeli movies prove that basic freedom of expression exists in Israel," Schory told the audience. "My primary goal is to preserve filmmakers' freedom to do their work."
After the awards ceremony, Schory participated in a question and answer session with Samuel Maoz, who directed the Israeli drama film "Foxtrot."
Schory took the opportunity to more clearly address the conflict between Israeli filmmakers and Culture and Sports Minister Miri Regev.
"I've been through my fair share of various culture ministers and governments; there have been ups and downs. But I don't see in the current situation a basis for dialogue. We are fighting to protect our freedom. This is a sad reality. I would want there to be a mutual dialogue with the minister," he said.
"There's a lot of noise. It creates an atmosphere that can lead to something dangerous in Israel. Artists are beginning to ask themselves questions and could begin censoring themselves, even if subconsciously."
However, Schory pointed out that no movie has ever been prohibited from screening in Israel.
"Unlike other countries, we are working on our wounds in a brave and forthright manner. The government doesn't always like it, but we are not here to serve the government," he said.
