First David Cameron announced he was a fan of Lana Del Ray and Band of Horses (he’s not interested in Katy Perry or Bruno Mars, apparently). Now he’s decided to offer his thoughts on the movie world, declaring that the British film industry needs to make more ‘commercially successful’ films.
Speaking before a visit to the world’s famous Pinewood studios, he said he wants producers to get more help making ‘commercially successful’ independent films that are not supported by Hollywood dollars.
It is expected that Lord Smith’s review of Government policy next week is to recommend reorganising Lottery funding in favour of British films that have a clear steer towards overseas success. The King’s Speech, funded by the UK Film Council, made over £250 million at the box office on a reported £9 million budget.
“In this year when we set out bold ambitions for the future, when the eyes of the world will be on us, I think we should aim even higher, building on the incredible success of recent years,” the Prime Minister said.
“Our role, and that of the British Film Institute (BFI), should be to support the sector in becoming even more dynamic and entrepreneurial, helping UK producers to make commercially successful pictures that rival the quality and impact of the best international productions.”
Director Ken Loach, speaking on the BBC’s Breakfast, has voiced concerns of Cameron’s and the Government’s review.
“If everybody knew what would be successful before it was made there would be no problem.
“What you have to do is fund a lot of different, varied projects and then some will be successful, some will be original, some will be creative, and you will get a very vibrant industry. ”
Loach expressed concerns though that the review would fail to address the multiplex monopoly in this country saying: “we do not have a wide spread of independent cinemas,” before adding: Unless you can see a wide variety of films we get a very narrow menu.”