The role of the UK
Film Council
SCENARIO
Imagine you are the new Chief Executive of the UK Film
Council and ultimately in charge of all film policy and funding
decisions. Taking into account the research you have done,
make notes on the following for a presentation to a committee
reviewing the UK Film Council’s work at the Department of
Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS):
There are no major issues for British audiences regarding language and narrative concepts with Hollywood Films. Some might say that because of this, there is no need for Britain to make their own films. However, It is extremely important for Britain to make their own films.
Firstly, it gives Britain their own sense of identity as it gives the chance for narratives to be centered on British issues. Also, continually making good British films it gives Britain a high status in the international film industry, which is very superficial. It can also make a lot of money for the country, which the government need to make more notice of. Especially in these times of economic crisis, where more money would be extremely beneficial.
I think that there should not be specific types of films that the UK Film council only grant funding to. There are millions of people in the UK with vast and diverse tastes in film. All genres of films should be catered for but because of the highly increasing competition from Hollywood films some things do need to be prioritised. Even though no film should be rejected from funding because of its genre or narrative, I do think that big action films, romance and comedy should be prioritized as they make the most money at the box office generally.
The Five aims of my organization:
Action- This is a big office draw. Could make a lot of money and could boost the international film status of the British film industry. It is a popular genre and could encourage the British public to get used to visiting the cinema more often.
Romance- This is a big office draw. Could make a lot of money and could boost the international film status of the British film industry. It is a popular genre and could encourage the British public to get used to visiting the cinema more often.
Comedy- This is a big office draw. Could make a lot of money and could boost the international film status of the British film industry. It is a popular genre and could encourage the British public to get used to visiting the cinema more often. Also this genre is growing with films such as “Run Fat Boy Run” and “Hot Fuzz”.
Independent- Britain needs a chance to be expressive and to cater for a UK audience with British based narratives, actors and location.
Horror- Again, Britain needs a chance to be expressive and to cater for a UK audience. Also this genre is growing with films such as 28 Days later.
I also think that the UK Film council should attempt to help fund film festivals and events to try to raise the profile of the UK Film industry. Also, if possible funding should used to help boost the popularity of UK TV Series and niche television programmes i.e. teenagers or for the older generation.
I too agree that it is very important for a British film industry to exist; it does create a sense of national identity which is vital(as you point out). It is true that we share a language with America, but British 'issues' are very different and film is an excellent and exciting place to explore these 'issues' and themes.
ReplyDeleteIt's interesting that you think 'big action films, romance and comedy should be prioritized'. Would these reflect Britain and British 'issues'?
Thoughtful work Ayshia! (Mr. Dunk)