Is there a global film industry? Debating this question with reference to contemporary film production This question has been the subject of debate for many years, with academics offering their own views on the subject. I will examine the national film industries of certain countries and then discuss the existence of a global film industry. Early film productions include the silent industries and films made around the time of World War I. There were no real British studios, only independent filmmakers. The United States was changing, however, as Hollywood grew and studios began to form. In Germany, investing in cinema was seen as an investment in their identity, as national identity was weak during the Weimar Republic era. French cinema was similar to that of the United Kingdom and preferred to focus on artistic expression and creativity (Norwell-Smith, G 1996). British and French efforts focused on current affairs films during the war period, with the result that American production dominated British cinema screens. National cinema is made up of films made in a country and contribute to the representation of national identity. They are also funded by money from the country in which they are produced and include all films produced in a country primarily for audiences in that state. British cinema is an example of national cinema. British cinema was extremely popular in the 1930s until the mid-1950s and almost everyone went to the cinema at least once a week. Since then, cinema audiences have declined considerably and success is no longer there. British cinema has been in Hollywood's shadow for some time now, with no uniquely British film making the top ten in the last ten years. The German film industry is another national cinema. Know...... middle of paper ......em. Of all the national cinemas, Hollywood would be the one considered global. Their films reach far beyond the borders of the United States and have a tremendous influence on people around the world. America determines the success of films. If they did well in America they can be considered hits, otherwise they performed well but are not considered blockbusters. For there to be a truly global film industry, it would mean that many domestic film industries are popular and successful. People were exposed to a wide range of films from many countries. However, this is not the case. The majority of films that are released around the world are Hollywood films, it is these films that have the most impact on the film industry and American domination therefore limits the ability of other national cinemas to contribute to the economy..