With 204 films produced, including 172 solely or majority produced by France, production output reached an all-time high in 2001, according to official figures released by the CNC. This represents an increase of 33 films, bearing witness to the new vitality of the French film industry.
In addition to a rise in the number of films produced, investment in production has increased by 12%, to cross the €900 million mark in 2001(including €750 million for the 172 majority-French productions.) Showing a notable rise are: contributions by French producers (up from 31.9% to 36.6%,) foreign contributions (up 28%, from 6.5% to 8.2%) and contributions from the free-to-air television channels (up 17%.)
At the same time, a significant upswing has been recorded in the number of low-budget films produced (42 films post budgets of less than €1 million) and big-budget films (39 films with budgets over €7 million, claiming 60% of investment,) with medium-budget films bearing the brunt of this redistribution of investment.
The number of first films produced remained stable (53 productions,) while second films are on the increase (36 in 2001 against 21 in 2000.)
Another significant development is the considerable progress in the market made by documentaries, with 17 films produced for the wide screen in 2001.
It is also interesting to note that the number of shooting weeks in France is increasing sharply, with close to 200 additional weeks registered (1,327 weeks compared to 1,136 weeks in 2000.)
And finally, 135 different production companies played the role of associate producer for the 204 films produced.