BRITISH FILMS

Poverty Bay Herald, Volume LIX, Issue 17958, 9 December 1932, Page 3

BRITISH FILMS

INDUSTRY GAINS GROUND

INTERESTING STATISTICS

LONDON, Dec. 1

Although the aim of the Cinematograph Act to develop the British lilm industry has not been fulfilled completely, Gaumont-Britisli (Studios, according to the Daily Mail, are supplying such excellent films that 350 GauuiontBritish cinemas are- able to present programmes 80 per cent. British. Twenty-four million people attend British cinemas each week, and the weekly receipts average £BOO,OOO.

Of the annual, income of more than £42.509,000, the entertainment lax takes £7.059,000 and the proprietors of the cinemas retain £23,500,000 for expenses.

lie payment of 150,000 workers, and in crest on the ,£80,000,000 invested.

The most interesting aspect of these amazing movie millions is the destination of thy remainder, which is paid to film renters, representing American and British producers.

During 1932, 150 British lilms were made, occupying 25 per cent, of (lie screen space—more than twice the quota allotment —as compared with 1926. prior to th(> passing of the Cinematograph Act. when American pictures occupied 97 per cent, of the space. Consequently, £2.750,000 a year is going to British companies at present compared with £8,250,000* to Americans.