British film spending to reach record $3.8bn in 2025

Last year's film expenditures in the UK reached a historic high, as revealed by the latest annual statistics from the BFI.

The BFI reports that feature film production in 2025 reached £2.8 billion ($3.8 billion), marking a 31% increase, the highest on record.

Yet, as has been the trend recently, only 7% of this spending was on local productions like Georgia Oakley’s Sense and Sensibility. 

The bulk went to major Hollywood films shot in the UK, such as Emerald Fennell’s Wuthering Heights, The Beatles – A Four Film Cinematic Event and Supergirl.

Spending on co-productions also declined by 14%, following a downward trend that began in 2024.

Although domestic expenditure increased slightly by 4%, its minimal share of the total is a point of concern, especially since an impactful 40% indie movie tax credit was introduced in 2024.

The year 2025 saw 193 films start production in the UK, a slight rise of two films from the previous year.

Films accounted for just over 40% of last year's combined expenditure on both film and high-end TV in the UK. 

This total of £6.8 billion ranks as the third highest ever. TV spending increased by 17% to £4 billion, with major series beginning production such as Harry Potter, Slow Horses, and Outlander: Blood of My Blood. 

Domestic TV productions that started in 2025 included Blue Lights season 3, A Woman of Substance, and Matt Charman’s Prisoner.

BFI chief Ben Roberts stated: “These numbers highlight the significant investment that the UK's film and TV sectors continue to generate for the UK economy while creating jobs. 

We draw in some of the most ambitious projects and top international talent to work here, and our creativity remains a significant export. 

Productions led by UK professionals in front of or behind the camera, showcasing our skilled crews, consistently captivate audiences both locally and globally.”