Broadcasters told to invest more in film
A report released this week by the Department of Culture, Media and Sport suggests there is a lack of investment in film by broadcasters. The independent panel behind the report - which follows on from a Film Policy Review in 2012 - recommends broadcasters invest more in original feature film production and acquisition.
The report says: "The panel is frustrated there has been little progress on its recommendations concerning broadcasting. We want to see broadcasters like BSkyB, ITV and Channel 5 doing more to support the industry and this is something we intend to raise with them as a matter of priority."
The panel says that by the end of 2015, it would like to see BSkyB investing at least £20m, ITV £10m, and Channel 5 £5m per annum in original feature film production, "as well as acquiring a greater number of British and specialised films".
The Film Policy Review focusses on nine principle themes, including broadcasters, international strategy, and skills and talent development.
Other recommendations by the panel, which is chaired by Lord Chris Smith, include:
- The BFI should engage more with the larger commercial exhibitors and smaller distributors of British independent and specialised films to improve audience choice across the UK.
- Film Nation UK (FNUK) should engage with the Department for Education, schools and teachers to achieve capacity and scale for film education interventions
- Government should develop an enhanced strategic vision for international film activity which reflects the convergence of TV and film and the opportunities to promote the UK's offer to a range of key markets beyond the US.
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