In a significant move for the Swiss and European creative sectors, five prominent production companies have united to form Swiss Studios AG. This consortium includes established names such as Elite Filmproduktion, Praesens-Film Production, Contrast Series, Bavaria Fiction, and Kinescope Film GmbH. With the board composed of leaders from these firms, the new entity aims to leverage their collective expertise. At the helm is Malte Probst, a European executive whose vision as Chairman and CEO will shape the studio’s direction from its headquarters in Zurich.
This alliance comes at a crucial juncture for the Swiss film industry, which has long sought to enhance its visibility and competitiveness on both a regional and international scale. By pooling resources and talent, Swiss Studios AG aspires to craft high-quality content that not only resonates with Swiss audiences but also captivates viewers across Europe and beyond.
A pivotal aspect of Swiss Studios AG’s strategy is the recently enacted ‘Lex Netflix’ rule, which mandates that streaming giants like Netflix, Prime Video, and Disney+ reinvest a portion of their local revenues—4%—into Swiss film and television productions. This legislation is a game-changer, presenting a unique opportunity for Swiss Studios to harness additional funding and resources for developing innovative content. Probst has articulated the potential of this legislative framework, expressing enthusiasm about creating engaging projects that fulfill the growing demand for local storytelling in a competitive landscape dominated by international players.
With the backing of both local industry knowledge and the financial influx from foreign platforms, the studio is poised to become a significant player in the cinematic realm.
Swiss Studios AG plans to adopt a holistic approach to media production, focusing on an array of functions that encompass the entire lifecycle of content creation. The firm’s mission is not just to produce films and series but also to handle distribution and marketing, making it an all-in-one entity for media projects. This integrated model allows for seamless project development and execution, minimizing friction and maximizing efficiency. Furthermore, the company aims to take on the responsibilities associated with investment and accounting, allowing creative professionals to focus solely on their craft.
As noted by board member Corinne Rossi, the ultimate goal is to inspire audiences—both nationally and internationally—with innovative narratives that are enhanced by technical advancements. This reflects a commitment not only to storytelling but also to embracing the future of content consumption, including digital avenues.
The establishment of Swiss Studios AG marks an ambitious endeavor to position Switzerland at the forefront of the European film and television industry. By fostering collaboration among key players and leveraging new financial opportunities, the studio is set to stimulate creative discourse and elevate local talents. With a clear vision and a strong operational framework, Swiss Studios AG can redefine what Swiss narrative cinema looks like in the 21st century, instigating a renaissance in local content creation that resonates far beyond its borders.
As the studio embarks on this journey, the industry will be watching closely to see how it navigates the challenges and opportunities ahead, and whether it can successfully translate its ambitious goals into compelling stories that capture the world’s imagination.