Expenditure on UK film production reached £2.8 billion in 2025, the highest figure on record, with overall expenditure on film and high-end TV production reaching £6.8 billion.
These latest figures, released this week by the British Film Institute (BFI), confirmed an increase of 31 per cent in expenditure on UK film, underlining the ongoing growth and recovery of that sector after the challenges of recent years.
Commenting on these strong numbers, Culture Minister Ian Murray said:
“From Wicked and Hamnet to Bridgerton and Slow Horses – some of this year’s most successful films and high-end television were made in the UK. The creative brilliance of our independent film sector shone with films like Pillion and The Ballad of Wallis Island, and the tax measures we have introduced will only strengthen this part of the industry further in the years to come.
“I’m delighted that audiences are continuing to return to the big screen. The economic bounceback of our film sector is fantastic to see, and is a testament to the talented workforce that exists across the country.
“This Government is committed to working with the industry, as part of our Creative Industries Sector Plan, to ensure that the UK remains one of the best places in the world to make and screen film and TV.”
Ben Roberts, BFI Chief Executive, added:
“Today’s figures demonstrate the UK’s film and TV industries continue to drive a huge amount of investment into the UK economy and create jobs. We attract some of the most ambitious projects and leading international names to make work in the UK, while our creativity remains one of our greatest exports. Productions led by UK talent in front or behind the camera, and those which showcase our renowned and technically skilled crews, consistently attract audiences at home and across the globe. This has seen Wicked: For Good and Bridget Jones: Mad About the Boy leading the UK box office, and titles such as The Roses, We Live In Time and awards-front runners including Pillion, I Swear and The Ballad of Wallis Island helping to hold our market share steady.
“Audiences have shown a strong appetite for cinema-going, but our domestic industry remains under pressure. There are encouraging signs thanks in part to the Independent Film Tax Credit and the significant increase in budget for UK Global Screen Fund, but access to finance is an acute challenge. We continue to be focused on working closely with industry and Government to further advocate for investment in skills, infrastructure, creativity and innovation across the UK so we can remain attractive to international productions and strengthen our independent sector.”