Germany is the latest European country looking to boost its film industry by offering unlimited cinema trips for a monthly fee. Following the success of similar initiatives in France and the Netherlands, Germany’s Federal Film Board (FFA) has announced the Cinifinity project, launching across the country for just €12.50 a month. This affordable subscription model aims to encourage more people to visit cinemas, providing access to both new releases and classic films.
The Cinifinity project has already garnered significant interest, with over 100 cinema complexes signing up. The FFA predicts a 10-20% increase in cinema visitor numbers as a result of this scheme. While the project is open to anyone over 18, the availability of participating cinemas across Germany is yet to be fully established.
The move comes as cinema attendance continues to face challenges from streaming platforms. Cinema subscriptions offer a compelling solution, encouraging audiences to experience the magic of the big screen more frequently. This benefits not only the cinemas themselves but also film studios, who stand to benefit from increased box office takings.
France has successfully implemented a similar initiative, the Fête du Cinéma, for over 30 years. This annual event, taking place across thousands of cinemas, offers affordable tickets, drawing millions of attendees each year. The Netherlands, meanwhile, has a popular subscription service called Cineville, offering access to over 70 cinemas, including independent and unique venues, for a monthly fee.
Germany is also home to Mubi Go, a service offered by the international streaming platform and production company Mubi. Mubi Go provides access to both the Mubi streaming service and a weekly cinema ticket, allowing subscribers to discover curated films in theaters.
With the Cinifinity project, Germany joins the ranks of European countries actively promoting cinema attendance and fostering a thriving film industry. The success of these initiatives demonstrates the power of affordable subscriptions in attracting audiences and supporting the artistic and economic value of the cinematic experience.
