David Cameron calls for 'more commercial' British films

Prime Minister wants UK film industry to focus on mainstream projects

British Prime Minister David Cameron urged the British film industry to make more mainstream and "commercially successful pictures".

His comments came during a visit to Pinewood Studios, which marked the end of an industry review that will determine the allocation of the national lottery's film funding.

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Speaking to small and medium businesses from within the film industry, Cameron acknowledged the value of the UK film industry, which he said made "a £4bn contribution to the UK economy and an incalculable contribution to our culture".

However, he added: "Our role, and that of the BFI", should be to support the sector in becoming even more dynamic and entrepreneurial, helping UK producers to make commercially successful pictures that rival the quality and impact of the best international productions."


His comments were disputed by director Ken Loach (‘Kes’), who told the BBC: "If everyone knew what would be successful before it was made, there would be no problem.”

"What you need to do is fund a lot of different, varied projects and then you'll get a really vibrant industry."

Cameron is clearly hoping for more films like ‘The King’s Speech’, which made around £250 milion worldwide, on a budget of just £9 million.

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The review, led by former culture minister Lord Smith, involved various industry pros including ‘Downton Abbey’ screenwriter Julian Fellowes, and will be published on Monday.

It is also expected to recommend that the BFI develop an export strategy for UK-produced films. A move necessitated by the abolition of UK Film Council last year.