Industry stalls
According to a report just published by the National Film Centre, French film production is experiencing a slowdown. After an excellent 2001, Gallic cinema continues to reap success after international success but there are also clear signs that it is slowing down.
200 features were produced in 2002, just 4 films fewer than in 2001. However, the co-productions where French companies were the majority partners fell by 10 from 172 to 162 in 2002. Those where French companies were minority co-production partners increased by 8 from 32 to 38. French investment in films fell by a Euros45million from Euros905million in 2001 to Euros860million in 2002. The reason for this is the drop in pre-acquisitions of films by Canal+ who invested in 102 predominantly French productions in 2002 and 9 minority co-productions, compared to 111 and 11 in 2001.
Nonetheless, French creativity and the diversity of the films it produces is one of its most distinguishing features. 60 per cent of productions are either first or second-time films. A new record for first time features was set in 2002 when 67 were made.
(Translated from French)
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