As part of the Horizon Europe project CresCine, which focuses on strengthening the international competitiveness and cultural diversity of the film industry in small European markets, four new reports on the European film industry were published during the summer. These reports provide insights into the challenges and drivers of change in the distribution of small European films, strategies for sustainable arthouse cinemas, innovative marketing approaches for small film industries, and the role of blockchain in transforming the film sector.
Small European Films: Challenges and Drivers of Change for Distribution and Exhibition
This report analyses film ecosystems in seven small European countries – Croatia, Denmark, Estonia, Flanders (Belgium), Ireland, Lithuania, and Portugal – and categorises them across four orientations: cultural resonance (domestic audience focus), artistic film (festival-oriented content), export (international market access), and production services. Key challenges shared across these countries include engaging local audiences, achieving international visibility through festivals, and gaining access to streaming markets. Despite being small and linguistically specific markets, the drivers of change include the growing importance of co-productions, festival successes, and the increasing role of digital distribution channels. You can access the report here.
Strategies for Building a Sustainable Arthouse Cinema in Europe
This report examines how European arthouse cinemas can become more sustainable in the face of new social, ecological, and market challenges. It highlights environmental sustainability, capacity-building for professionals, innovative financing and distribution models, and strengthening the cultural role of cinemas. Pilot projects conducted in seven countries aim to develop guidelines that will enhance visibility and competitiveness in small markets, while safeguarding artistic quality and cultural diversity. The full report is available here.
Rethinking Effective Marketing Strategies for Films Coming From Small European Markets
This study explores how to design more effective marketing strategies for films from small European markets. Traditional approaches, typically designed for larger markets, often fail to adapt to contexts with limited resources, audiences, and infrastructure. The report emphasises the importance of innovative, locally adapted solutions – ranging from the use of social media and digital campaigns to partnerships with festivals and cultural institutions – to ensure that films from smaller film industries reach wider audiences. You can access the report here.
Blockchain’s Role in Transforming Europe’s Film Industry
Blockchain technology is explored as a potential solution to persistent issues in the film industry, including rights management, revenue distribution, and licensing processes. Case studies illustrate how the sector is already experimenting with smart contracts, tokenisation, and new models of film financing. While adoption is still in its early stages and faces both regulatory and technical challenges, the report recommends the development of shared standards, a clearer legal framework, and support for small production companies so that blockchain can become a realistic tool for a more transparent and efficient European film industry. The full report is available here.
Further information on the CresCine project is available on the project’s official website.
