Reflecting on 2024, it is evident that the film and TV industry faced notable challenges while seizing remarkable opportunities for growth and innovation. For Set Starters, this was a transformative year, marked by our successful rebrand and relaunch in August 2024, which firmly established our position within an evolving industry landscape.
The Rise of Independent Cinema
2024 witnessed a pivotal shift in the UK film industry. While major productions slowed, the independent film sector thrived, becoming a critical lifeline for industry professionals. This growth was driven by:
- The Independent Film Tax Credit (IFTC): Offering 53% tax relief on qualifying expenses for productions with budgets up to £15 million.
- Increased Support: Enhanced backing from government and industry organisations, recognising the vital role independent films play in fostering talent and showcasing diverse British narratives
Challenges and Opportunities
Despite its resilience, the industry faced several hurdles, including:
A 20% global decline in film and television production levels. Approximately 45% of UK independent cinemas operating at a financial loss. However, these challenges fuelled innovation, with the sector pivoting towards:
Strategic Investment: A measured focus on content investment. New Production Models: The rise of independently financed TV series.
Set Starters’ Success Story
Rebranding and Relaunch – August 2024 marked a turning point for Set Starters with a comprehensive rebrand and relaunch. This strategic evolution aligned us with the shifting dynamics of the industry, enhancing our ability to serve emerging professionals and independent filmmakers.
Growth rate by month in 2024. Impressive Growth Our rebrand delivered exceptional results, including:
- A 728.17% increase in traction.
- 20,133 total visits to our platform.
- 7,744 unique users. These figures reflect not only the success of our rebrand but also the increasing demand for our resources and services in a rapidly changing industry.
- Unique Vistors: 7,744 – Monthly Visits: 20,133 (including reoccurring) and yearly growth of 728.17%
Looking Ahead to 2025 The future holds significant promise for both Set Starters and the broader UK film and TV industry, with projections indicating:
- A £7.66 billion growth in film and high-end television (HETV) production by 2025.
- A requirement for 20,770 additional crew members to support this expansion.
- Continued government and industry support for independent filmmaking.
2024 marked a transformative period for Set Starters and the broader UK film industry, characterised by resilience, innovation, and remarkable growth. As we embark on the journey into 2025, we stand ready to capitalise on the momentum we’ve built, with a renewed focus on nurturing fresh talent and bolstering the thriving independent film sector.
Throughout 2024, Set Starters demonstrated its adaptability by swiftly responding to the shifting landscape of the film industry. We’ve expanded our support networks, refined our training programmes, and forged new partnerships to ensure that emerging professionals are well-equipped to meet the evolving demands of the sector.
Looking ahead to 2025, we’re set to launch several groundbreaking initiatives aimed at supporting new entrants to the industry. These include mentorship schemes pairing industry veterans with promising newcomers, specialised workshops focusing on cutting-edge technologies in filmmaking, and networking events designed to bridge the gap between independent filmmakers and established production companies.
Our commitment to the independent film sector remains unwavering. We’re developing new funding streams to support indie productions, creating platforms for showcasing independent films to wider audiences, and advocating for policies that protect and promote the unique voice of independent cinema in the UK.
As the industry continues to evolve, so too will our approach. We’re investing in research to anticipate future trends, collaborating with educational institutions to align curricula with industry needs, and working closely with production companies to ensure our support remains relevant and impactful.
2025 promises to be a year of unprecedented opportunities for the UK film industry, with projections indicating record-breaking inward investment. Set Starters is poised to play a pivotal role in this exciting chapter, ensuring that the UK’s reputation as a hub of filmmaking excellence continues to flourish. Together, we’re not just adapting to change; we’re driving it, shaping a vibrant, inclusive, and innovative future for UK cinema
