Ffilm Cymru Wales, the UK development agency for Welsh film, has said it is committed to backing films that are “commercially competitive” and “globally relevant” as part of its 2026-31 strategy.
“While challenges including limited access to finance, co-production opportunities, and international visibility remain, there is strong potential to build a more vibrant and globally relevant filmmaking community in Wales,” it said.
The agency, headed up by CEO Lee Walters since 2023, underlined it is “committed to addressing these challenges by investing in culturally and commercially ambitious independent films that reflect the diversity and creativity of Wales.
“We will support innovation for filmmakers, encouraging the exploration of new forms, technologies, and storytelling approaches that push creative boundaries. We will also strengthen co-production opportunities for Welsh talent by working closely with national and international partners, while promoting creative risk-taking within the industry to ensure a vibrant, globally connected Welsh film sector.”
Ffilm Cymru said its new strategy, which replaces the 2024-30 strategy (published in 2023), aims to reflect a rapidly evolving film landscape, amid the growing influence of AI and new audience habits.
The agency invests around £3m per year in funding from partners, including Arts Council Wales lottery money and Welsh government-backed Creative Wales. It expects its funding to remain at that level going forward. It is yet to be decided how the funding will be distributed across the strategy’s different priorities.
Features to shoot recently in Wales with Ffilm Cymru support include Philippa Lowthorpe’s Bafta-nominated H Is For Hawk starring Claire Foy, Rhys Marc Jones’ mystery thriller Black Church Bay and Theo Rhys’ musical horror Stuffed, starring Jodie Comer and Harry Melling.
It also aims to “strengthen cinemas and film festivals through targeted funding and advocacy, while developing initiatives that broaden access to independent and Welsh-made films, including exploring digital platforms and innovative models of distribution”.
Local talent
The strategy addressed the specific challenges facing local filmmakers. “Welsh writers, directors, and producers often face limited access to funding, mentorship, and clear career progression, particularly those from underrepresented backgrounds.” Ffilm Cymru funding is available to directors, writers and producers born or based in Wales, but do not have to be shooting in Wales.
Ffilm Cymru said it aimed to build longer-term professional pathways for the local industry. “The Welsh film sector faces challenges to sustainable growth, including limited long-term investment, inconsistent production opportunities, and the need for stronger infrastructure to retain and develop local talent.”
To help rectify this, the agency will provide targeted financial support for writers, directors, and producers across all career stages, including dedicated bursaries and development funds for Welsh-language and bilingual projects; partnering with international labs and residencies; and expanding mentorship opportunities.
The agency says it is also looking to support projects led by Welsh talent that meaningfully engage Welsh crews, develop talent and offer longer-term training opportunities, rather than short-term production activity alone.
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