What's Happening?
Chernin Entertainment, co-produced by Peter Chernin and David Ready, is behind the Netflix film 'The Big Fix,' which has commenced production in New South Wales, Australia. The film, directed by Baltasar Kormákur and starring Mark Wahlberg and Riz Ahmed,
is inspired by a true story and based on a book by Brett Forrest. It follows a former Interpol cop who uncovers an international match-fixing scandal within FIFA. The production is expected to create 500 local jobs and contribute an estimated $55 million to New South Wales' screen industry and broader economy. Support for the production comes from Screen NSW’s Made in NSW Fund and the Australian Government’s Location Offset. Director Baltasar Kormákur highlighted New South Wales' ability to provide the necessary scale and authenticity for the globetrotting thriller.
Why It's Important?
The production of a major international film like 'The Big Fix' by Chernin Entertainment in New South Wales signifies a significant investment in the global film industry, with direct economic benefits for the host region. While the production is not in the U.S., the involvement of a prominent U.S. production company like Chernin Entertainment and U.S. stars like Mark Wahlberg and Riz Ahmed underscores the interconnectedness of the global entertainment industry. This project demonstrates how U.S. production entities can leverage international locations and incentives to create content, simultaneously fostering economic growth and employment opportunities abroad. For U.S. audiences, it means continued access to high-quality, internationally produced content from familiar names in Hollywood, reinforcing Netflix's global content strategy.
What's Next?
Production of 'The Big Fix' is set to continue primarily in Sydney from April. Following filming, the movie will proceed through post-production phases before its eventual release on Netflix. The success of this project could encourage further international collaborations and investments by Chernin Entertainment and other U.S. production companies in regions offering similar incentives and infrastructure. The film's release will be a key moment to assess its reception and the impact of its international production model. The ongoing support from Screen NSW and the Australian Government suggests a continued effort to attract major film and television projects, potentially leading to more opportunities for U.S. production companies.
Beyond the Headlines
The decision by Chernin Entertainment to produce 'The Big Fix' in New South Wales highlights a broader trend in the entertainment industry: the globalization of film production. This move is driven by factors such as financial incentives, diverse filming locations, and access to skilled international crews. For U.S. production companies, this strategy allows for cost-effective production while maintaining high cinematic quality. It also reflects the increasing demand for diverse content on global streaming platforms like Netflix, which necessitates a global approach to content creation. This trend can lead to a richer variety of stories and perspectives in mainstream media, influencing cultural exchange and understanding across borders.
