On December 19, 2024, the German Bundestag passed a new film funding law, establishing a legal framework for collecting a film levy from cinemas and streaming services, which generated approximately 50 million euros in 2023 for new productions.

The law has garnered enthusiasm from the film industry, with prominent director Volker Schlöndorff describing it as a 'small miracle' that prevents a halt in financial support for film production, directing, and screenwriting.

Peter Dinges, head of the Filmförderanstalt (FFA), welcomed the decision as a crucial step for urgently needed film reform, while emphasizing that further adjustments are necessary for competitiveness.

The new film funding concept aims to attract both German and international productions to German filming locations, enhancing the utilization of traditional facilities like Studio Babelsberg.

The SPD's Michelle Müntefering confirmed ongoing support for the film industry, with extended funding guidelines and increased funding rates for 2025.

The law received positive feedback from the actors' union and production alliance, although concerns arose about the potential failure of the funding law due to the breakdown of the coalition government.

Roth and Finance Minister Jörg Kukies are implementing a transitional solution for 2025, ensuring that funding processes will be partially automated, focusing on a filmmaker's economic or cultural success.

Cultural Minister Claudia Roth expressed relief and optimism regarding the law, stating it significantly improves the conditions for filmmaking in Germany.

Roth announced plans for further reforms, including a tax incentive model and investment obligations, with an increase in incentive funding to 30% starting February 1, 2025.

While the Free Democratic Party (FDP) claims the new funding process will be less bureaucratic, the Social Democrats (SPD) and Greens criticized the removal of a proposed diversity advisory board.

Schlöndorff attributed the positive outcome to the personal involvement of Chancellor Olaf Scholz, whom he referred to as a 'savior in a time of need.'