The Business of Film

Making a film is a creative exploit, but just like any other business, the aim is also to make money. The Business of Film has been created by The Open University, in association with Pinewood Studios – the leading provider of studio services to the global screen-based industries. The studios are where Star Wars: Episode VII – the Force Awakens and the 24th James Bond film Spectre were recently filmed. Using the value chain concept and important independent film case studies, the course provides a practical and in-depth exploration of the key business decisions. Why do films fail? Why are intellectual property and copyright important? Why do films get public funding? What is the relationship between marketing, box office returns and overall film success? As well as providing step-by-step guidance on the main processes, this course will also discuss these fascinating questions. Join us to gain an understanding of the questions you should be asking and the relationships you need to build to ensure the smooth running of your production. The course will go live on 5 October 2015 to coincide with the 59th BFI London Film Festival.

• Hilary Collins