The landscape of film and television production in Switzerland is undergoing significant transformation with the establishment of Swiss Studios AG. This newly formed entity is the result of collaboration between five prominent European production companies: Elite Filmproduktion, Praesens-Film Production, Contrast Series, Bavaria Fiction, and Kinescope Film GmbH. Located in Zurich, this consolidation of expertise from various geographical domains aims to elevate Swiss content on both local and international platforms. By pooling resources and knowledge, the foundation of Swiss Studios AG heralds a new era for the Swiss creative industry, signaling a commitment to independence and quality.
Malte Probst, a seasoned executive in the European film landscape, has stepped into the roles of both chairman of the board and CEO. His leadership is pivotal in navigating Swiss Studios towards its vision of creating innovative content across diverse media formats, including films, documentaries, and television series, all with a distinctly Swiss narrative. Probst articulates a clear and ambitious agenda: to harness the potential of the recent legislative changes, particularly the ‘Lex Netflix,’ which mandates significant reinvestment from major streaming platforms into local productions. The aim is not merely to fulfill regulatory requirements but to catalyze the proliferation of high-quality Swiss cinema.
The ‘Lex Netflix’ initiative has fostered a fertile environment for local talent by obligating global streaming giants such as Netflix, Prime Video, and Disney+ to allocate a portion of their revenue back into Swiss film and television projects. This newfound financial support can act as a catalyst for creative innovation, allowing Swiss Studios AG to take bold risks while developing content that resonates with both local audiences and international viewers. By strategically leveraging this legislative change, the studio can position itself as a dominant player in the European film industry, emphasizing the importance of regional stories told with a contemporary flair.
Swiss Studios AG has articulated a comprehensive mission statement that highlights its aim to provide a ‘one-stop-shop’ for media production. This encompasses not just development and production but extends to distribution, marketing, and licensing services. Such an encompassing approach is designed to streamline the process for creators and investors alike, making it easier to handle the complexities of modern media production. The firm’s intent to become a hub for Swiss film and television marks an ambitious goal of consolidating local talent and expertise, fostering collaboration between creatives, and promoting innovative storytelling.
As the European film industry evolves, Swiss Studios AG stands at the forefront, intent on crafting compelling stories that inspire audiences worldwide. Under the visionary leadership of Malte Probst and with a unified commitment from its shareholders, the studio is poised to become a beacon of creativity in Swiss cinema. The emphasis on high-quality content, coupled with the benefits of legislative support, promises exciting developments as Swiss Studios AG embarks on its mission to make a mark in the global entertainment landscape.