Film funding in danger: a small step, but great hopes!

Film funding in danger: a small step, but great hopes!

In Berlin, a dramatic turn in German film funding is on the go! On Wednesday, the majority of the Bundestag's cultural committee agreed to the new Filmfördergesetz, whereby the hope for an early farewell in the Bundestag on Thursday evening and in the Federal Council on Friday Tagesspiegel . But caution is advised here: only part of the comprehensive reform, announced by Minister of Culture Claudia Roth in spring 2023, becomes a reality. The two most important pillars, tax relief for film productions and the investment obligation for streaming services do not come to implementation for the time being, which could significantly impair the international competitiveness of the German film industry.

an outcry from the industry

The film industry is shared by the developments. Björn Böhning, managing director of the production alliance, made relief about the upcoming adoption of the law and called it "good news in stormy times". However, the uncertainty remains great, because without the urgently needed tax incentives, Germany will lag behind in international comparison. Roth explained that the law is considered "vital" for the industry. Another blow to the film industry is the withdrawal of important measures such as a planned diversity advisory board, which could significantly delay the progress in the industry, as Bvfk

Julia Maier-Hauff, Managing Director of the producer: Interior Association, appeals to politics, now to stand up for consensus in order to secure the production of films and series from 2025. The signs within the cultural committee also indicate a possibility that the bill will receive support across all parties. However, Matthias von Fintel von Ver.di emphasizes that the reform of the Filmfördergesetz is essential to bring about fair working conditions and a raising of the tariff standards, and that the investment obligation for streaming providers remains a key topic that the next government must be tackled. The expectations are high and time is forces! 【Tagesspiegel】 【BVFK】