The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted industries worldwide, and filmmaking was no exception. As the virus spread globally, film productions came to a halt, theatres closed, and the way films were created and consumed changed overnight. The pandemic forced the film industry to adapt, innovate, and navigate an entirely new landscape. Let’s explore how COVID-19 impacted filmmaking and what this means for the future of the industry.
Shutdowns and Delayed Productions
Immediate Halt to Filming
When the pandemic first hit, film sets became high-risk environments. Productions around the world were shut down almost instantly to prevent the spread of the virus. Major blockbusters, independent films, and television series all experienced sudden delays, pushing release dates back indefinitely. Filmmakers had to adapt to an uncertain timeline as the virus made it impossible to predict when it would be safe to resume filming.
Postponed Releases
Theatres worldwide closed their doors, leaving many films without a clear path to release. Blockbuster films like No Time to Die and Dune saw multiple release date postponements as studios waited for theatres to reopen. Even with the return of theatres, reduced capacity and public hesitation kept box office numbers low, delaying the full recovery of in-person film screenings.
A Shift Toward Streaming
Streaming Platforms Took Center Stage
As theatres shuttered, streaming platforms became the primary source of film distribution. With audiences confined to their homes, platforms like Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, and Amazon Prime saw massive increases in subscribers. Studios began skipping theatrical releases altogether, opting to debut films directly on these platforms. Films like Mulan and Wonder Woman 1984 were released directly to streaming services, marking a significant shift in how audiences consume content.
Hybrid Releases
The rise of streaming led to hybrid release models, where films launched simultaneously in theatres and on streaming services. Warner Bros. embraced this approach with its entire 2021 film slate, including The Matrix Resurrections and Godzilla vs. Kong. This model allowed studios to reach audiences who were hesitant to return to theatres while still providing a theatrical option for those comfortable attending in person.
Innovative Filmmaking Techniques
Remote Filmmaking
With in-person productions paused, filmmakers explored remote methods to keep projects moving forward. Directors and crews experimented with remote filming techniques, using video conferencing tools to direct actors and communicate with teams. Some productions even relied on actors filming scenes in their own homes, later edited together to create a cohesive story. The independent horror film Host, shot entirely over Zoom, became a standout example of how filmmakers adapted to pandemic restrictions.
Smaller, Contained Productions
When productions resumed, health and safety protocols significantly changed how films were made. Film crews shrank in size, and large crowd scenes were reduced or cut entirely. Productions adopted “bubble” environments, where cast and crew isolated together to minimize the risk of infection. These smaller, more contained productions allowed filmmakers to continue working while prioritizing safety.
Health and Safety on Set
New Safety Protocols
To restart production safely, film sets adopted strict health protocols. Regular COVID-19 testing, temperature checks, and personal protective equipment (PPE) became standard on set. Social distancing rules limited interactions between cast and crew, while zones were established to keep different departments separated. Productions also implemented “COVID officers” tasked with ensuring all safety measures were followed.
Filming in a Bubble
Some productions adopted a “bubble” model, where the entire cast and crew isolated together in one location for the duration of filming. This method reduced the risk of COVID-19 exposure and allowed filming to continue uninterrupted. Projects like Jurassic World: Dominion used this approach, with cast and crew living and working together in a quarantined environment.
The Future of Filmmaking Post-Pandemic
Permanent Changes to Distribution
The pandemic accelerated the shift toward streaming, and it’s likely that hybrid release models will continue even as theaters fully reopen. Audiences have become accustomed to the convenience of watching new releases from home, and studios may continue offering simultaneous streaming options to maximize reach. Streaming will remain a dominant force in the industry, influencing how films are released and marketed.
Embracing Technology
COVID-19 pushed the industry to embrace technology in new ways. Virtual sets, remote collaboration tools, and even artificial intelligence became integral to the filmmaking process. As productions move forward, these innovations will likely remain a staple of the industry, allowing filmmakers to create more efficiently and with greater flexibility.
Conclusion
The COVID-19 pandemic forever changed the filmmaking industry, forcing it to adapt in ways no one could have anticipated. From shutdowns and delayed productions to the rise of streaming platforms and remote filmmaking, the industry has shown resilience in the face of unprecedented challenges. While many of the changes brought on by the pandemic will continue to shape the future of filmmaking, one thing remains clear: the industry will continue to evolve and thrive, no matter the obstacles.
