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.