The UK film industry continues to generate strong global revenues, but much of the growth is being driven by inward investment rather than UK-owned intellectual property, experts have warned.
According to Blick Rothenberg, independent producers face mounting pressure as a small number of large studio-backed films dominate global returns. Mandy Girder, a partner at the firm, highlighted the challenges mid-budget and independent films face, particularly around access to finance and international distribution.
“There is clear global demand for UK storytelling, but the challenge seems to be around scale,” Ms Girder said. “Fewer, larger players controlling IP, financing, and distribution are increasing barriers to entry and placing additional pressure on mid-sized UK independents, who risk being squeezed out of the most valuable parts of the value chain.”
Recent BFI data show that UK films generated $5.3 billion globally in 2025, with UK-qualifying titles capturing 19.7% of the global box office, down from 20.8% in 2024. While total revenues rose slightly year on year, the decline in market share reflects intensifying global competition.
The report highlighted the dominance of major studio-backed releases: the top 20 UK-qualifying films accounted for around 90% of total revenues, led by Jurassic World: Rebirth, which grossed $738 million. By contrast, UK qualifying independent films contributed just 1.3% of the global box office, down from 1.7% in 2024. The leading independent title, The Roses, earned $45 million, performing strongly in New Zealand and Australia but only modestly in North America and Europe.
Ms Girder called for greater government support, including incentives to retain intellectual property in the UK, improved access to development funding, and support for independents to scale without being forced into early consolidation.
“The UK has the talent and infrastructure to remain a global leader, but the next aim is to create long-term value through ownership, not just delivery,” she said. “Not every independent needs to consolidate – but every independent needs a pathway to scale, retain IP and access global markets. The government needs additional funding and policies to support that journey.”
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