What is the British Film Commission?

The British Film Commission (BFC) is the national agency responsible for maximizing and supporting the production of international feature film and high-end television in the UK. With offices in both the UK and the US, the BFC provides free, tailored production support from the earliest stages of development through to post-production. Their mission is to promote the UK as a world-class production base, ensuring that filmmakers have access to the country’s vast resources, skilled workforce, and competitive incentives.

Services Offered by the BFC

The British Film Commission offers a comprehensive suite of services designed to facilitate seamless production experiences:

• Production Support: Guidance throughout all stages of production, from development to delivery.
• Tax Relief and Funding Advice: Expertise on accessing the UK’s competitive tax reliefs and funding opportunities.
• Location Assistance: Help in identifying and securing diverse and film-friendly locations across the UK.
• Crew and Talent Sourcing: Assistance in finding skilled local crew and talent to meet production needs.

Regulatory Guidance: Advice on visas, work permits, and other regulatory requirements.

UK Tax Reliefs and Funding Incentives

One of the UK’s most attractive offerings to filmmakers is its generous tax relief system:

• Audio Visual Expenditure Credit (AVEC): Introduced in January 2024, AVEC provides a net value relief of 25.5% for qualifying feature films and TV programmes, and 29.25% for qualifying animated films, animated TV programmes, and children’s TV programmes.
• High-End Television Tax Relief: Offers significant financial incentives for high-end TV productions, with no cap on funds and the ability to combine with other regional incentives.

These incentives are designed to make the UK a financially competitive location for film and television production.

Location Scouting and Production Support

The UK’s diverse landscapes and historic landmarks offer a plethora of filming locations:

• Urban Settings: From the bustling streets of London to the industrial backdrop of Manchester.
• Countryside and Coastal Areas: Picturesque villages, rolling hills, and stunning coastlines.
• Historic Sites: Castles, cathedrals, and ancient ruins that add authenticity to period pieces.

The BFC assists in coordinating location enquiries and connects productions with regional screen agency partners to facilitate location scouting and permissions.

Collaborations and International Co-Productions

The British Film Commission actively supports international collaborations:

• Co-Production Agreements: The UK has numerous bilateral co-production treaties, allowing for shared resources and funding opportunities.
• Partnerships with Studios: Collaborations with major studios and streaming platforms have led to successful productions, such as Netflix’s investment in Longcross Studios.

These partnerships not only bring financial benefits but also foster cultural exchange and creative innovation.