BFI figures show that there was a 35% increase in film production in the UK during 2014 with a total spend of £1.471bn, the highest recorded figure ever.

Film production in the UK hit a record high in 2014.

According to independent figures released by the BFI, last year saw a 35% increase in film production on 2013 with a total spend on £1.471bn, the highest recorded figure ever. Tax reliefs for film, high-end television, animation and video games are helping to drive production investment.

During 2014, international inward investment films coming to the UK included the likes of Star Wars: Episode VII - The Force Awakens and Mission: Impossible 5, while domestic UK films which went into production across the UK included Testament of Youth, Dad’s Army and Shaun the Sheep.

Independent UK productions also achieved their highest ever market share at the UK box office at almost 16%, with Paddington (£35.5m as of Feb 1) leading the way. Other successes - many of which were Lottery funded through the BFI - included Mr. Turner and Nativity 3: Dude, Where’s My Donkey?!.

Overall, independent UK films and British-qualifying inward investment productions enjoyed a market share of almost 26% at the UK box office, up from 22% in 2013.

Culture Secretary Sajid Javid commented: “The UK film industry is a powerhouse for growth and I’m delighted that 2014 saw an all time high spend on film production. Supporting the creative industries, including our vibrant film sector, is a key part of the Government’s long term economic plan and we have worked hard to create the right environment here for the UK film industry to flourish.”

“[The] report illuminates a dynamic and vibrant story of success for the screen industries in the UK. It’s a sector alive with opportunity and energy, where creativity and fiscal policy is working hand in hand to make the UK the most exciting place on the planet to do business,” added Amanda Nevill, CEO of the BFI.

Adrian Wootton, CEO of the British Film Commission, said: “Our tax reliefs, world-class crew, state-of-the-art facilities and award-winning talent are a formidable package. The British Film Commission, working closely with our partners, the wider industry and Government, have been able to successfully secure some of the world’s biggest productions for the UK.”

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