The UK independent film producer has expressed enthusiasm and caution following news of Netflix’s decision to strengthen the presence of British films by appointing Film4 and Channel 4 drama head Ollie Madden to the role of director of British films.
Madden will join US streamers in early October and report to Anne Mensah, UK-based Vice President of Content.
“This is exciting news,” said Gillian Berry of Sigma Films. “This is another notable step in the right direction where we can see changing corporate policies to properly support the sector, not just the government, and another indication that Netflix wants to take part in a new era of British filmmaking.
“Ollie has an impeccable flavour and has the ability to identify and develop world-class ingredients. What a great role for him.
Vaughan Sivell, CEO of Western Edge Films, was equally enthusiastic. “I think that’s great news. I say Netflix is solidifying its position in the UK by hiring this kind of experience and importance. Ollie has a great track record and a great taste.”
Neon Films producer Nicky Bentham has added the addition of Madden.
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However, some producers who called for him to remain anonymous expressed caution as to whether Madden’s employment meant a real commitment by US streamers to support British talent and local UK industries.
“This move doesn’t surprise me. When I see it, I believe in Netflix’s commitment to becoming a real player in British films,” the UK producer said. “Good luck to Ollie and I hope he can guide them to the right commitment to becoming a player in British films.”
The producers personally are not part of the breakout scheme, but they raised the issue of Netflix’s bruise decision to end the uplifting filmmakers programme run in Creative UK in 2023. “What happened was pretty bad, and they need to fix it for that,” the producer said.
“Ollie is almost a veteran right now,” added another producer. “I hope it’s a good foreshadowing to more British films. The last thing I heard was that Anmensa’s authority would make a big IP, big cast film from the UK. Peaky blinds It’s a perfect example. Unless that changes, we are not going to go back on the day they make cheaper movies.
“It sounds exciting, but the feeling that Anmensa isn’t into film doesn’t mean they want a small, independent, socially realistic drama on the platform. They want a brassy and interesting film. puberty. Maybe they’re watching different kinds of movies. ”
Not everyone is sure puberty It is something the film industry should hold as a beacon of hope. “I’m very pleased that the project will flourish, but it’s television. It’s written by Jack Thorne, the most sought-after and prolific, mostly television writer. It’s not a risk-taking exercise.
“The industry as a whole has a very unfortunate experience with Netflix’s appetite being truly involved in the UK film industry. Even today’s slate feels more by chance than strategy. Peaky blinds movie.
“For years, there’s no sense that they’re a place to make movies for years. Due to the size of Netflix, they didn’t look like a place of interest in any sense.
“In terms of this next era going on, we’ve heard from people in the building that say that strategy is a film rather than a film first (Netflix) and that’s certainly not a film. Indeed, in the producer community, we’re skeptical that it’s not a dominant star package miniseries.
“Ollie is clearly very tapped by the community here, knowing most of us and I really like it. You may think it’s different this time, but there have been some tenures that haven’t been translated into meaningful engagement.”
The existence of Netflix’s British films has fluctuated over the years. Most recently, Theresa Moneo quietly left earlier this year as head of an original British film. joyEdward Berger’s Little Player Ballad And Tom Harper Peaky blinds film.
(TagStoTRASSLATE) Netflix (T) Production (T) Streaming (T) UK/Ireland
