News

Film and cinemas 2008

Admissions to theatrical screenings of films in Iceland totalled nearly 1.6 million in last year, signifying seven per cent increase from the previous year. This equals five visits per capita. Film attendance has not been higher since the year 2002. The number of spectators in the capital region increased by eight per cent; in other areas the number of admissions decreased slightly. Total Gross Box-Office (GBO) revenue amounted to 1,270 ISK million.

In 2008, 166 full-length features were released, thereof 134 US films (81%) and 13 British (8%). Seven domestic productions were premiered during the year. Icelandic films increased their market share somewhat in the last year from the previous year. Measured in share of admissions, the market share of domestic films was eight per cent and 10.5 per cent in GBO. US productions had far the highest share equally in admissions and GBO, or over 80 per cent.

Last year there were 18 cinemas with 41 screens operating in 13 municipalities. Seating capacity was 6,446 and the average number of weekly showings was 819. The number of film theatres outside the capital region decreased by two from the previous year.

Information about films and cinemas is from an annual inquiry among exhibitors and the database of SMAIS, the association of film rights-holders in Iceland on theatrical film showings from film distributors.