What Makes a Film British?

The five films nominated for Outstanding British Film Award by BAFTA in 2010 were:

FISH TANK
AN EDUCATION
IN THE LOOP
MOON
NOWHERE BOY

In the past, other nominations have included:

Mama Mia
Slumdog Millionaire
The Bourne Ultimatum


According to the UK Film Council, a UK film is:

1. one which is certified as such by the UK Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport under Schedule 1 of the Films Act 1985 via the Cultural Test
2. one which was made under one of the UK's official co-production agreements or the European Convention on Cinematographic Co-production
3. a film which has not applied for certification but which is obviously British on the basis of its content, producers, finance and talent.

What is the Cultural Test?

The Cultural Test is made up of four sections:

1. Cultural content
2. Cultural contribution
3. Cultural hubs
4. Cultural practitioners

A film needs to score 16 out of a possible 31 points, subject to a "golden points rule". See Cultural Test points.

What is a Co-Production Agreement?

A co-production is a film which is made in cooperation between the UK and another country. The UK is one of many countries currently signed up to the European Convention on Cinematographic Co-production, which allows film producers from different European countries to work together. In addition, the UK has treaties with Australia, Canada, India, Jamaica, New Zealand, and South Africa.