In the digital age, we’re consuming television in new and entirely different ways. The big streaming giants, such as Netflix and Apple TV, seem to be stepping ahead and taking the lead when it comes to big-budget productions, with traditional platforms and UK broadcasters treading water or struggling to simply keep up with the times. So is there a crisis behind the TV cameras?
An End to British Drama?
Once the BBC was the foundation of British drama shows, but today it’s facing a financial crisis and struggling to fund its shows. New projects are abandoned or left in limbo, and funding issues are causing delays in the production of even some of its most popular and highly acclaimed broadcasts. Actors are being asked to take pay cuts simply to keep top shows afloat, and freelancers and film crews are struggling to find work in the industry. With production companies going bust, it’s time to take notice as the landscape of the TV industry shifts. As producers call for tax breaks or point fingers towards a lack of resources, it may be high time for broadcasters to reconsider their budgets and filming options.
What’s the Solution?
A move towards producing lower-budget content could be a good start, although there are some pitfalls here too, such as maintaining a high-quality show on a limited budget. However, with so many freelancers – who make up a huge proportion of the film and TV industry – facing a lack of work to the extent that 86% reported struggling financially, our TV industry must adapt to the new landscape. Marquee TV hire, for example, could offer a more inexpensive way to film and create a production village. Companies such as Good Intents https://goodintents.co.uk/film-and-tv-marquee-hire/ can offer marquee TV hire solutions to the film industry and individuals alike.
Ultimately, funding struggles behind the scenes need addressing before more “risky” or niche shows and narratives face becoming sidelined for good. A move towards remote, virtual or budget TV production alongside increased production flexibility could be required to ensure the future of British TV.
