Screen Comment: UK Indie Producers Are in Crisis and Need Urgent Support

Writer Fionnuala Halligan presents a series of articles published with Screen International that speak to the current state of independent producers in the United Kingdom. The articles highlight the systematic devaluation and unfair treatment of UK independent film producers, even during the Hollywood strikes. Despite record-breaking film production figures in 2022, UK independent producer fees are comparatively low, as low as £3,000 ($3,650) over the development of a project. Independent producers, crucial to the industry’s foundation, face rising costs, international competition, and credit-snatching. The call for change includes support from the wider industry, similar to the Writers Guild of America’s advocacy. The UK government’s upcoming investigation into the challenges facing the industry is seen as an opportunity for solidarity and change.