Streaming Platforms Funding More French Cinema
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Loading... - Frieda Wagner
- 02 Dec 2024
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In a development for the French film industry, major international streaming platforms such as Netflix, Disney+, and Amazon Prime Video have collectively contributed €362 million to French audiovisual and cinema production, as reported by Arcom and the CNC (Centre National du Cinéma et de l'Image Animée). This funding initiative aims to bolster local production and is part of a broader effort to ensure that international players contribute to the cultural landscape of France.
Since July 2021, leading international streaming services have been required to invest in French cinema as part of their operations in the country. This obligation aligns these platforms with domestic television companies like TF1, France Télévisions, and Canal+, which have long supported local content creation. The regulation, derived from a European directive, mandates that 20% of the revenue generated in France by these platforms must be allocated to local production efforts.
The contributions from these streaming giants have seen a remarkable increase. In 2022, the first full year under the new obligations, Netflix, Disney+, and Amazon Prime Video contributed €342 million—a substantial rise from €162 million in 2021. This trend indicates a growing commitment from these platforms to support French cinema and audiovisual projects.
While the specific contributions from each platform have not been publicly disclosed due to business confidentiality, Netflix has previously stated that it has invested €250 million in local production initiatives.
Looking ahead, 2024 will see the introduction of two new players into the funding obligations: Sony’s Crunchyroll and Apple TV+. These companies will also be required to contribute to the French audiovisual landscape, further expanding the pool of resources available for local cinema and television production.
The involvement of major streaming platforms in funding French cinema represents a significant shift in the landscape of audiovisual production in France. By mandating contributions from these international services, France aims to protect and promote its rich cultural heritage while also adapting to the changing dynamics of the entertainment industry. As more platforms come under these obligations, the potential for increased investment in local production continues to grow, benefiting filmmakers and audiences alike.
