In an unprecedented move, five prominent European production companies have united to establish Swiss Studios AG, a venture poised to reshape the landscape of film and television production in Switzerland and beyond. The founding shareholders include a blend of influential entities such as Elite Filmproduktion, Praesens-Film Production, Contrast Series, Bavaria Fiction, and Kinescope Film GmbH. This collaborative effort highlights the importance of synergy within the industry, particularly in an era where cross-border cooperation is essential for creative and financial success.
Leadership and Vision
Taking the reins of this new enterprise is CEO Malte Probst, an experienced executive with a robust background in the European entertainment industry. Probst’s leadership is backed by the expertise of the board, primarily composed of heads from the founding companies, ensuring that Swiss Studios AG will benefit from a wealth of knowledge and diverse perspectives. Situated in Zurich, the studio aims to deliver innovative, high-quality content that encompasses film, documentaries, series, and television—not just for Swiss audiences, but for the broader European and international markets.
Leveraging Legislative Opportunities
The creation of Swiss Studios AG comes at a vital time, as the new ‘Lex Netflix’ legislation has recently altered the funding landscape for local productions. This law mandates that global streaming giants like Netflix, Prime Video, and Disney+ reinvest a percentage of their Swiss earnings back into the local film industry. Probst has emphasized that the studio will capitalize on these recent developments to breathe life into new and exciting projects that align with the evolving demands of the market. By harnessing these legislative changes, Swiss Studios AG positions itself as a frontrunner in attracting investments and producing captivating content that resonates with both local and international viewers.
Swiss Studios AG is not only focused on production; its mission statement reveals a commitment to providing an integrated approach to filmmaking. The organization plans to offer comprehensive services that include development, production, distribution, and marketing—all within a single framework. This cohesive model is designed to streamline processes and maximize efficiencies, allowing creative teams to focus on what they do best: storytelling. The studio also intends to manage investment-related obligations and licensing distribution, positioning itself as a one-stop solution for filmmakers and content creators.
With a clear aspiration to inspire audiences across both cinemas and digital platforms, Swiss Studios AG intends to remain at the forefront of technological advancements and artistic creativity. Board member Corinne Rossi emphasizes the importance of collaboration with creative talents, underpinning the studio’s goal of delivering groundbreaking content that reflects the dynamic nature of the media landscape. Ultimately, Swiss Studios AG aims not just to produce films and series, but to serve as a cultural catalyst that enhances the reputation of Swiss cinema on the global stage, reaffirming Switzerland’s place as a vital contributor to European storytelling.
Swiss Studios AG represents a significant leap forward for the Swiss film and television industry. Through collaboration, leadership, and an innovative approach to new opportunities, the studio is poised to make a lasting impact in the realm of entertainment.