Shortly before the planned meeting of the coalition committee on the future organisation of German film funding, several industry associations have reaffirmed their positions and criticised the current political considerations.

PROG warns against voluntary commitments

In a press release dated 10 December 2025, PROG - Producers of Germany - assesses the voluntary commitments of international platforms currently being discussed in the political arena as inadequate.
The reason for this is the announcement that "sums in the billions" from investments by global corporations could flow into German film production as part of the reform. However, PROG doubts that such voluntary commitments would generate additional funds.

Board member Marcel Lenz described the outcome of the negotiations to date as a "declaration of bankruptcy for Germany as a film location". According to the association, it is unclear to what extent platforms would actually commit themselves and how a review could take place. Only a legal framework could guarantee transparency and control.

More than 40 associations had previously called for a binding legal solution under the title "Investment obligation: law instead of sell-out".

IFF sees film location in critical condition

At the same time, the Initiative Fair Film (IFF) issued an appeal to the Minister of State for Culture and the Federal Minister of Finance. The initiative, an association of 30 professional organisations, warns of a continuing downturn in German film and refers to the results of its own survey.

According to the study, almost half of the filmmakers surveyed expect their income to fall by more than 20 per cent in 2024/2025. In addition, the number of employees in the industry who are constantly looking for work has more than tripled within two years. Around 30 per cent of filmmakers with their own employees fear imminent insolvency, while around a fifth are already working in other jobs or are preparing a change.

According to the IFF, the film industry is losing substance and expertise as a result. The initiative calls for adherence to the planned three-pillar model, consisting of the FFG reform, a tax incentive and a statutory investment obligation.