Local films gain traction in EU cinemas, boosting national production, while theater numbers decline across Europe.
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While overall cinema attendance in the European Union slightly decreased last year, the share of local films reached 32.8% in the EU in 2024, indicating the importance of national productions for sector sustainability. Lithuania is notable for consistently growing cinema attendance, with local films setting viewing records. Local content’s popularity is helping to offset the decline in American content viewing, which fell by 6% last year. In Lithuania, local and European films together account for 33% of viewed content. Lithuanian cinema experts note that audiences are becoming more discerning, seeking high-quality, emotionally resonant films that reflect current realities. The film “Pietinia kronikos” was highlighted as a major success, attracting nearly 412,000 viewers. Overall, national films attracted nearly 750,000 viewers in Lithuania in 2024, a 45% increase from 2023. Beyond this success, the Lithuanian film industry is seeing long-term growth, supported by film festivals and international recognition for local works. Across Europe, only a few countries, including France, Ireland, Bulgaria, Greece, Albania, Latvia, Poland, Slovakia, and Montenegro, saw increases in audience numbers. France saw its local film share reach a record high of 44.8%. Cinema theaters globally face challenges, including closures and relocation to shopping centers. In response, some countries are addressing reduced accessibility, such as a Spanish company transforming various local spaces into temporary cinemas.
