A new report from the British Film Institute (BFI) warns that the UK’s screen sector must urgently enhance its workforce capabilities to keep pace with artificial intelligence. Titled AI in the Screen Sector: Perspectives and Paths Forward, the report stresses the need to build complementary skills that will allow creatives to harness AI without compromising the industry’s global competitiveness.
The report highlights a critical gap in formal AI training, particularly for freelancers, who often lack access to structured learning and resources. While much of the current education is informal, the UK’s strong base in AI research and its skilled creative workforce present an opportunity to transition talent into AI-enhanced roles. The BFI argues that such a move would safeguard jobs and strengthen the UK’s leadership in global screen production.
To support this transition, the BFI outlines nine strategic actions for the next three years. These include promoting ethical, cross-disciplinary collaboration, embedding data-driven sustainability practices, and establishing an ‘AI observatory’ alongside a ‘tech demonstrator hub’ for hands-on learning. These proposals have received support from the House of Commons Culture, Media and Sport Committee.
Rishi Coupland, BFI director of research and innovation, acknowledged both the opportunities and risks of AI integration. “AI represents an inflection point for the sector,” he said. “We need to act quickly across various strategic fronts to ensure that the UK’s world-leading industries can thrive.”
The report also draws attention to a broader skills crisis across digital content production, particularly at mid and senior levels. Post-Brexit immigration policies have further limited access to talent from Europe, and inconsistent training investment has left much of the workforce unprepared to meet new demands—especially in areas like video games and VFX.
In response, new initiatives are emerging to reform industry training. The Screen Sectors’ Skills Task Force has proposed the creation of a unified strategic skills body to overhaul the current system, including the restructuring of apprenticeships and stronger ties with educational institutions.
The BFI’s National Lottery Innovation Challenge Fund is also backing AI integration, recently awarding £192,500 to King’s College London to explore AI’s role in preserving and sharing screen archives. The project exemplifies a broader commitment to applying AI creatively and responsibly.
As AI continues to reshape the film and creative industries, the BFI underscores that only strategic investment in training and skill development will enable the UK screen sector to adapt and lead in the digital era.
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