The latest report by the European Audiovisual Observatory reveals that theatrical films and TV movies represent 13% of total television viewing time across 18 European Union countries, based on an analysis of data from 141 TV channels in 2023. Despite the rising prominence of on-demand platforms, traditional broadcasters continue to dedicate a substantial share of programming to film content, with notable disparities in audience engagement by country and origin of content.
Film consumption via linear TV varies widely across Europe, ranging from just 7% of total TV viewing time in some countries to as much as 23% in others. Among the countries with the highest shares of film consumption are Slovakia, Czechia, and Hungary. At the opposite end of the spectrum, nations such as the Netherlands, Denmark, and Portugal allocate the smallest proportion of their total TV viewing time to films.
European Union films maintain a strong footprint on TV schedules, accounting for 33% of all films broadcast and 41% of the total film viewing time. The data shows a clear preference for national films within each country, as domestic productions typically outperform non-national European titles. For example, national films often hold the largest share of viewing within the EU's own productions, reflecting the cultural affinity and stronger promotional support they receive in domestic markets.
UK films—still relevant in European broadcasting schedules despite Brexit—represented 6% of all films broadcast and accounted for 5% of total film viewing time. The highest penetration of UK film content was recorded in Ireland, where cultural and linguistic ties help boost appeal, followed by Sweden and Finland.
A closer examination of the genres shows that theatrical fiction films dominate the landscape, comprising more than 90% of both the number of broadcasts and viewing time. Documentaries and animation films represent much smaller shares. European documentaries perform relatively well, receiving a proportionate share of viewership relative to their broadcast volume. However, European animation films continue to struggle in terms of audience share, capturing less viewing time than their presence on the schedule would suggest.
The report also provides a focused view on theatrical films alone, excluding made-for-TV movies. Within this subset, European theatrical films account for 26% of viewing time. This highlights their continued relevance, particularly in countries with strong national film industries, but also emphasizes the competitive challenge posed by non-European, primarily US-made, films.
These findings paint a nuanced picture of the European broadcast landscape, where national films continue to resonate with audiences, but where greater cross-border circulation of European titles remains a challenge. It also suggests significant room for growth in genres like animation, which may require better scheduling strategies, marketing, or targeted support to enhance their appeal on linear platforms.