UK Tax Credits Lure International Co-Productions, Producers Praise Opportunities

According to a panel of leading producers at the BFI London Film Festival, the UK's film tax credit scheme has emerged as a major draw for international co-productions, helping the country shed its reputation for challenging legal structures and complex financing requirements.

Polish producer Klaudia Śmieja-Rostworowska of Madants Film noted that the British tax credit is "an exceptional one" that has enabled European filmmakers to understand how to structure bigger films while maintaining cultural proximity. "Great Britain comes with so many opportunities," she said, adding that "Great Britain is the first stop when we dream about Hollywood."

The praise for UK incentives came during a discussion on international co-productions at the festival's industry forum. Producers behind several festival titles, including "Sentimental Value," "Orphan," "Dreamers," and "Diamonds in the Sand," emphasized the attraction of UK financing sources, particularly for minority co-producers.

Emily Morgan of London-based Quiddity Films highlighted the UK's "brilliant" crews and the appeal of its financing sources, though she acknowledged the "intense" legal requirements. The Global Screen Fund, established after Brexit to replace Creative Europe funding, has proven particularly valuable for UK producers seeking to participate in international projects.

The panel illuminated the complex realities of assembling international co-productions, with producers describing structures ranging from two countries to as many as nine on a single film. Despite the technical complexities, the producers emphasized that personal connections and trust matter more than contractual frameworks when selecting co-production partners.