With around 50 filming starts in September and over two dozen in October, the production industry is expecting a conciliatory end to the year for fiction productions after another very poor year. Data from other countries shows that this is not a purely German phenomenon. However, a few regions were able to benefit disproportionately from a higher funding incentive. A significant upturn in domestic production is not expected until the second half of next year. An effective and confident subsidy reform in the short term could bring this effect forward by a few months. The Media Days with the "26th Forum Filmwirtschaft" and the findings from the German film industry delegation trip to Los Angeles in November promise to be good sources for a valid indication.
As the year draws to a close, it's time to take an optimistic look ahead to the bright prospects for the film production industry in the US and Europe in the coming year. The German film industry in particular has suffered from considerable challenges this year, but now, in late autumn, the industry is on the move. Despite adverse circumstances, numerous new shoots are starting, which could be a promising sign for a recovery in the industry.
Just a few years ago, October marked the end of the filming season, but this year we are seeing a welcome change. Projects that were originally scheduled for spring can now be realised. This positive development is due not least to the slowly recovering cinema market. Audiences are also steadily returning to cinemas and the demand for new films is increasing. At the same time, new television formats are experiencing an upswing. Streaming services and video-on-demand platforms, which have gained in importance during the pandemic, are increasingly focussing on in-house productions in order to retain their subscribers and attract new ones.
Another trend is the increasing relocation of US productions to Europe. More and more American film studios are deciding to realise their projects on the old continent. This is not only due to the often more favourable production conditions, but also to the diverse and fascinating locations that Europe has to offer. From the historic streets of Prague to the breathtaking landscapes of Iceland, the European backdrop lends many productions a special authenticity and visual power. The statistics alone should boost our self-confidence and encourage politicians to make rapid progress in their reform efforts.Â
These developments have positive effects for the European film industry: local service providers and talents benefit from increased international cooperation, and valuable networks and synergies are created. In order to maintain this dynamic in the long term, it is important that politicians finally create the necessary framework conditions. A central point here is - we repeat ourselves - the reform of German film funding. The industry, represented by leading associations, has been pushing for years for the funding instruments to be modernised and adapted to current challenges and needs.
The German film industry needs flexible and targeted funding measures that make it possible to realise innovative and high-quality productions. This is not just about financial support, but also about structural improvements that make the entire production process more efficient and transparent. Politicians are called upon to take the industry's concerns seriously and to finalise the reforms quickly in order to strengthen Germany as an attractive production location in international competition.
With a positive and confident view of the future and the right political decisions, the industry can emerge from the crisis stronger and further expand its role as an important cultural and economic driver.
Your Ensider:Team
(Author: Markus Vogelbacher)