The impact producing as answer to the current challenges in film production chain

The article examines how impact producing may positively affect European film production as a response to current industry challenges. Starting from the theoretical framework of Social Impact Assessment and the Theory of Change, the author proposes an evolution of the impact producing approach drafted by DOCSociety to widen its effects from documentary filmmaking to all forms of cinema, using case studies such as Participant's films. The paper also explores the potential of implementing impact strategies throughout the entire film production chain, not just in distribution, proposing a more systematic approach on sustainability, that keeps together environmental, economic and social issues in accordance with and driven by each project' specificity. The paper argues that integrating impact assessment into film production may reshape the public and private funding system for independent productions, helping bridge the gap between cultural value and market performance, particularly in the European context where public support is justified by the «cultural exception» waiver. While acknowledging the challenges in implementing impact assessment in cinema, the article suggests how this approach could lead to more sustainable and socially responsible filmmaking practices, better aligned with public interest and cultural diversity goals, setting a new holistic paradigm in European film production.