The Film Industry

Overview of the Film Industry

  • The film industry, often referred to as Hollywood, is one of the world’s most influential sectors in entertainment.
  • The film industry is segmented into several parts: Production, Distribution, and Exhibition.
  • Production is the process of creating a movie, from scriptwriting, casting and filming to post-production and editing.
  • Distribution involves the promotion of the completed movie and delivering it to movie theatres, television networks or online platforms.
  • Finally, exhibition deals with how the audience consumes the film, be it in a theatre, on television, or through streaming services.

Role of Major Production Studios

  • Five major studios, often referred to as the ‘Big Five’, dominate the global film industry. These are Universal Pictures, Warner Bros., Paramount Pictures, 20th Century Fox, and Columbia Pictures.
  • These studios control the majority of film production and distribution, both domestically and internationally.
  • They are known for producing blockbusters with high production values, aiming to attract a broad audience.

Independent Filmmaking in the Film Industry

  • The counterpoint to major studios is Independent film production. These are often lower-budget films, driven more by artistic vision than commercial success.
  • Independent films often tackle more niche or controversial subject matters and can be a launching pad for new talent.
  • Film Festivals like Cannes, Sundance, and others provide a platform for these films to reach their intended audience.

Influence of Technological Changes on the Film Industry

  • Over the years, technological advances have revolutionised the film industry. Digital technology has made producing, editing, and distributing films easier and more cost-effective.
  • Online streaming platforms like Netflix and Amazon Prime have disrupted traditional distribution networks, offering a more direct and accessible route to market.
  • Social media platforms and influencers are increasingly being utilised in innovative marketing strategies promoting films.

Welsh Film Industry Influence

  • The Welsh film industry has seen significant growth and is now responsible for a number of notable works.
  • Films are often co-funded by the Ffilm Cymru Wales, which uses film to promote the country’s culture, heritage and language.
  • The renaissance of the Welsh film industry has impacted the global film industry by promoting unique cultural narratives and rich storytelling.