The British production industry is making a comeback after facing significant setbacks from the WGA and SAG-AFTRA strikes in 2023. Despite the challenges, U.K. film studios and production facilities are optimistic about the future, building on a record-breaking year for film and high-end television production spend in 2022.
A Promising Year Ahead
Samantha Perahia, head of production U.K. at the British Film Commission, believes that the industry is set to rebound with increased demand. According to her, some studio facilities in the U.K. are already experiencing a surge in activity, signaling a positive momentum.
Expanding Studio Space
The U.K. has witnessed a remarkable increase in production spend, with a jump from £726 million ($376 million) in 2016 to $7.8 billion in 2022. To meet the growing demand from major U.S. studios and streamers, the U.K. has been expanding its studio and stage provision. This expansion includes purpose-built studio facilities, which received a boost in 2020 when the British Film Commission secured a $6 million government investment.
New Players on the Scene
One such facility that has emerged on the scene is Edinburgh’s FirstStage Studios. Led by BAFTA-winning producer Bob Last and actor-director Jason Connery, the studios have already welcomed major productions like Marvel’s “Avengers: Infinity War” and Netflix’s “Eurovision Song Contest: The Story of Fire Saga.” With its scale and imagination, FirstStage offers a unique alternative to London facilities for ambitious projects.
Diverse Locations and Facilities
Northern Ireland is another region that has seen significant growth in the production sector. Belfast Harbour Studios, Loop Studios, and Titanic Studios have attracted projects such as BBC/Showtime’s “The Woman in the Wall,” Paramount Pictures’ “Dungeons and Dragons,” and Universal’s upcoming live-action adaptation of “How to Train Your Dragon.” The advantage of having diverse locations is a major selling point, allowing crews to move easily from studios to breathtaking beaches and other picturesque settings.
The U.K. as a Filming Destination
The U.K. has also become a popular choice for cities doubling as international capitals in film and TV productions. Aberdeen transformed into Cold War Russia for Apple TV+’s “Tetris,” while Liverpool and Glasgow stood in for Gotham in Warner Bros.’ “The Batman.” This trend not only adds versatility to the U.K.’s filmmaking capabilities but also brings economic benefits to local communities.
Accommodating Crews and Supporting Talent
To retain experienced crew members and foster talent, major production facilities are increasingly prioritizing the well-being of their crews. The Wonder Works, based at Warner Bros. Studios Leavesden Park, became the U.K.’s first nursery dedicated to the film and TV production sector. It aims to support crew members who want to continue working after having children.
Furthermore, studios are taking steps to address the physical and mental well-being of their crews. Various facilities offer nursing rooms, quiet spaces, and mental health resources. The industry is proactive in supporting the overall welfare of its workforce.
U.K.’s Competitive Edge
According to Perahia, the U.K.’s competitive advantage lies in its combination of a wonderful landscape, a skilled crew base, great studio spaces, and user-friendly tax incentives. The country remains a leading force in the industry and continues to foster partnerships with European jurisdictions to facilitate seamless production across borders.
Balancing Supply and Demand
While the U.K. enjoys an adequate provision of studio space, the industry faces the challenge of oversupply. As more studio spaces are planned, there is a concern about saturating the market. Striking a balance is crucial to maintain a steady stream of work without cannibalizing projects.
As the British production sector regains its swagger, industry leaders are cautiously optimistic about the future. They recognize the need for vigilance and strategic planning to ensure continued success.
Source: Variety