This collection examines the impact of streaming platforms on European cinema. It is structured from three distinct points-of-view: the policy issues related to streaming platforms, equally at the European level and in individual countries; the impact of platforms on the circulation of European films, including some of the global players, multi-national and single-nation platforms operating in Europe; and the production activities of the platforms in the form of specific ‘original’ films. By bringing together scholars working on various national cinemas, including those of France, Spain, Britain and other countries, this collection illuminates the many ways in which the European film industry is responding to the digital revolution.

This book is about the business of distribution, around which the international film business revolves. Considering sales agents and distributors as primary gatekeepers, the book examines the networks in which they operate, how they operate, how their practices have evolved, and the power and control they exert over the business of independent film distribution. Critically, it also considers how they are affected by the powerful influence of Netflix and Amazon in the online era. At a time of disruption and change to traditional business models and industry professions, Roderik Smits argues that gatekeepers remain equally - if not more - crucial to the distribution and circulation of films in international markets.

This book is about the business of distribution, around which the international film business revolves. Considering sales agents and distributors as primary gatekeepers, the book examines the networks in which they operate, how they operate, how their practices have evolved, and the power and control they exert over the business of independent film distribution. Critically, it also considers how they are affected by the powerful influence of Netflix and Amazon in the online era. At a time of disruption and change to traditional business models and industry professions, Roderik Smits argues that gatekeepers remain equally - if not more - crucial to the distribution and circulation of films in international markets.