However; on the demand side of things, it appears that the theatrical film market is recession resistant. For example, the UK Film Council found that during each of the UK recessions of 1974-76, 190-2 and 1990-92 "Cinema admissions stayed close to the long-term trend of the period in question."
The UK film industry still continues to thrive; take the hugely successful Harry Potter franchise, for example. As well as, 2009's Slumdog Millionaire, which is the UK's most successful-ever independent film.
News shaking up parts of the UK film industry are the government plans to abolish the UK Film Council, and I agree with Tim Bevan CBE, chairman of the UK Film Council, when he says it is "A bad decision." As Bevan CBE rightly points out, the UK Film Council is "The most successful film support organisation the UK has ever had." The impact this will have on the UK film industry could be devastating. Then again; the are the same people who funded St. Trinians!
Cinema has truly entered the digital age, giving UK film the potential to flourish as never before. Digital technology is beginning to transform the way in which film and moving images are financed, produced, distributed and consumed. The audience are given more choice, the audience are encouraged to participate - often through viral marketing - and, as for the UK film industry specifically, the UK is promoted in the wider world (through the Internet).
Despite the audience having more choice with television and the Internet, the film industry continues to grow, and the UK is no different. The digital age and arrival of 3D have opened many new doors. I believe it truly is an exciting era in film.
Nicola Edwards
Facts and figures from the UK Film Council
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