History of the Film Industry Timeline

History of the Film Industry

Something that changed / impacted the film industry in the 1940's and 1950's...
During the 1940's many inventors were trying to improve the television model. Although the TV had already been invented in the early 1900's, people didn't purchase them in their homes until the 50's, and since then, television has been the main medium for moulding public opinion and the most popular media platform. 
Television has had a major impact on the film industry as it allowed people to watch films at home instead of going to the cinema (although the 1940's were the 'Golden Age for the Film Industry'). This applied especially to elder people, who did not visit the cinema often, or even ever. Watching films on the TV was an easier option in the comfort of their own homes. 
It also increased the acknowledgement of actors and actresses, for example Marilyn Monroe, who was the most famous actress of the 1950's. 
One negative effect of the television is that the number of people visiting the cinema has increased. But on the other hand, the capital has been made up from an increased number of cinemas and films released.
Following from the invention of the television, came video recording. The first videotapes were introduced in the mid 1950's and people were purchasing their own video tapes by the late 50's. This had an extraordinary impact on the film industry as a massive income was generated from the public buying films on tape. 
If the television had not been invented, then the film industry of today would be extremely different. For starters, people would not be able to watch as many films, therefore knowledge of the media and the industry would not have been great. Furthermore, if videotapes had not been introduced, then neither would have DVDs and the film industry would be a lot less better off, since a large proportion of money produced in the industry comes from DVD purchase. 

Growing the Audience of Today & Tomorrow

Today the average British person watches over 80 films per year, at cinemas or at home. Technology has also provided many new ways of watching films, on various devices such as laptops, tablets and even mobile phones. 

The British audience contribute £4.2 billion to the global film industry, which is why continuing to grow the audience is so important. This will also benefit the British public, as they receive more access and more choice. 

Britain do not see many British films in cinemas, on television; anywhere, due to larger film industries. In proportion to Hollywood blockbusters, independent British films receive only 5.5% market share. The lack of British independent films shown in the cinema is due to the extremely high costs of promotion and marketing. 

The consultation have endorsed a strategy that supports both new and traditional ways of watching films.

1. To connect the widest possible range of audiences throughout the UK with the broadest and richest range of British films and other films from around the world.
2. The BFI should explore with industry partners developing and launching a British film 'brand' - raising awareness and expectation - to build a stronger proposition for British film at home and abroad. 
3. Strategy which develops a UK-wide film network - which can offer cultural experiences, creative practice etc.
4. To enhance social cohesion across the UK, using film as a catalyst for creativity and shared community experience.
5. Big Lottery Fund should be asked to consider entering into a funding partnership with the BFI, to create a programme of assistance for local film clubs and societies in areas of rural deprivation or isolation.
6. BFI should co-ordinate a joined-up UK-wide film festival offer, to promote independent British film and maximise value for money.
7. BFI should co-ordinate a new unified offer for film education which brings together making, seeing and learning about film - available in every school across the UK.

Introduction to The British Film Industry

What Makes a British Film?

• The Government often decide whether a film should be a "British Film"- they receive tax incentives
• 'The Films Order 1999' - modification of the definition of a British Film
• The company which produces the film should be based in Britain
• At least 70% of production costs spent in Britain and 70% of labour costs on European and Commonwealth citizens

The Importance of the British Film Industry - 

• Helps British economy - brings money to the country
• Job and career opportunities for many people

The British Film Institute (BFI)

What they are and what they do -

• Charitable organisation set up in 1933
• Encourage the development of film and TV in the UK
• Promote education about moving image
• Promote access to British and world cinema

"We use Lottery funds to nurture and invest in a diverse mix of first-class filmmakers UK-wide"

In 1999 the BFI carried out a survey across the UK to find out the 'Top 100 British Films'.
It is clear that there aren't as many popular British films compared to the larger production companies such as Universal and Paramount.