UK films may find themselves sidelined at the local multiplex, but that doesn't mean that they aren't being made, or for that matter, that they are not appreciated. One of the strange paradoxes of film production in the UK is that audiences abroad are often more receptive to British films than audiences at home. In fact, British films continue to gain awards and critical acclaim at international festivals. Although film distribution remains a problem for UK filmmakers, the situation isn't insurmountable. Recent works by directors such as Ken Loach, Peter Mullan, Stephen Frears, Lynne Ramsay and Michael Winterbottom, all attest to the vitality of filmmaking in the UK today. |
Filmmaking in the UK appears to be a highly precarious endeavour. A spate of government schemes to help the UK filmmaking industry have attracted close examination and scrutiny, but have they helped or hindered production and opportunities? The film distribution system, dominated by US studios, often works against small independent productions. Yet despite these problems the UK continues to produce work of a high quality; and new filmmakers are emerging with their own distinctive style and approaches.
The British Council actively promotes the work of British filmmakers around the globe. Find out more about our activities by clicking the link above.
Take a look at the latest UK films on release, with all the ones you'd expect plus a few surprises too... click on the link above.
Chinese audiences get a rare chance to see the latest UK films this year (including Calendar Girls, pictured left) as a selection tours the country in June and November.