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Swiss production companies unite to establish Swiss Studios AG
A new era for Swiss cinema
In a landmark development, several leading Swiss production companies have come together to launch Swiss Studios AG in Zurich. This initiative is set to transform the Swiss film and television landscape, bolstered by the recent “Lex Netflix” law.
The catalyst: Lex Netflix
The “Lex Netflix” law, introduced in Switzerland, mandates streaming giants like Netflix and Amazon Prime Video to reinvest 4% of their local revenues into Swiss film and TV productions. This move aims to nurture and expand the local creative industry, offering unprecedented opportunities for Swiss content creators.
The powerhouse behind Swiss Studios
Swiss Studios AG is backed by an impressive consortium of production houses including Elite Filmproduktion, Praesens-Film Production AG, Contrast Series, Bavaria Fiction Switzerland, and Kinescope Film GmbH. This united front strives to create a central hub for Swiss film and television projects, leveraging their combined expertise and resources.
Vision and mission
“We are thrilled to spearhead a groundbreaking initiative for the Swiss and European creative industries with the foundation of Swiss Studios,” remarked the company’s chairman and CEO, Malte Probst. “Our goal is to harness the new opportunities brought about by the ‘Lex Netflix’ and materialize them into vibrant, thought-provoking content.”
The establishment of Swiss Studios underscores a collective ambition to elevate Swiss cinema to new heights. By providing a comprehensive suite of services—from development and production to distribution and marketing—Swiss Studios aims to streamline the creative process, making it easier for local talent to thrive.
Financial impact and future projections
When the “Lex Netflix” was enacted in May 2022, it was projected to inject between $18 million and $30 million annually into the Swiss film and TV industry. Such a financial boost is anticipated to significantly enhance the production quality and international competitiveness of Swiss-made content.
In 2023, Netflix announced its first Swiss original production, “Winter Palace,” in collaboration with Swiss network RTS. This series, set in the early 20th century, chronicles the genesis of winter tourism in the Alps, driven by the innovative ideas of a Swiss hotelier and a British aristocrat.
Comprehensive services and ambitions
Swiss Studios AG promises to deliver end-to-end solutions for media projects. Their services encompass development, production, distribution, marketing, licensing, and even handling investment and accounting obligations. This all-encompassing approach aims to create a seamless experience for content creators, fostering a conducive environment for high-quality production.
“Our mission is to elevate the Swiss film industry and produce content that resonates on an international scale,” said Ivan Madeo, a board member of Swiss Studios. By uniting efforts and pooling their know-how, the consortium aspires to become the nerve center of Swiss cinema.
The broader implications of Lex Netflix
The “Lex Netflix” not only benefits Swiss Studios but also has wider implications for the Swiss cultural sector. It is expected to stimulate local economies, create jobs, and promote Swiss culture and talent on a global stage. The law represents a significant shift in how streaming services interact with local markets, setting a precedent that other countries might follow.
With the establishment of Swiss Studios, the country’s production landscape is poised for a renaissance. The strategic union of these prominent production companies signifies a robust commitment to enriching the Swiss creative scene and producing content that captivates audiences far and wide.
Looking to the future
The cultural ripple effects of Swiss Studios are bound to extend beyond Switzerland’s borders. As the global streaming wars intensify, unique and region-specific content will become increasingly valuable. Swiss Studios, with its consolidated efforts and resources, is well-positioned to carve out a distinctive niche in this competitive environment.
Stay tuned for more exciting developments from Swiss Studios AG and the evolution of Swiss cinema. Follow us on social media for the latest updates and insights into the world of film and television.
