The film industry, with its glitz and glamour, has long been a subject of fascination and scrutiny. But behind the scenes, the dynamics are far more complex and often unfair, as Stephen Follows, a film industry data analyst, revealed in his presentation at the Locarno Pro industry program. Follows' data-driven insights shed light on the power dynamics and the elusive nature of control within the film business.
One of the most striking findings was the prevalence of 'nepo babies' in the top-grossing films of this century. The audience was surprised to learn that 70% of the top 100 films had at least one family member working in the industry as a director, writer, or top actor. This highlights the role of access and privilege in getting a foot in the door, with family connections providing an advantage in terms of age and career progression. However, Follows emphasized that this doesn't necessarily equate to merit, and the films themselves don't necessarily benefit from these connections.
The presentation also highlighted the impact of producer experience on first-time directors. Data showed that three out of four directors don't make a second feature within five years of their first. However, those who do, and who have worked with an experienced producer, have a higher chance of success. This suggests that access to the right connections and mentorship can be a significant factor in a director's career trajectory.
Education was another key factor. Follows noted that film school graduates outgross non-graduates, despite having identical quality ratings. This indicates that film school provides an advantage in terms of getting into the industry at a younger age and reaching the top 100 films list.
The economics of the film industry were also discussed. Only 3.4% of indie films generate a profit, and of the 10% that make it into cinemas, only around 33% are profitable. This is in stark contrast to studio films, 51% of which make a profit. Follows attributed this to 'power laws', where a small number of films capture the majority of the riches.
One of the most thought-provoking aspects of the presentation was the idea that the film business doesn't allow much control. Despite the industry's focus on stars, test screenings, franchises, and algorithms, Follows argued that these factors only provide an 'illusion of control'. He suggested that the fundamental risk of the industry remains unchanged, and that people should focus on what they can control, such as making people want to work with them, creating truly original films, and enjoying the journey.
In conclusion, Follows' presentation offered a fascinating insight into the film industry's inner workings. It highlighted the importance of access, connections, and education, while also emphasizing the unpredictable and unfair nature of the business. As the industry continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see how these dynamics play out and whether the film business can become more equitable and accessible for all.
