As the Australian feature films and feature docs released in cinemas this year have surpassed the calendar 2017 total, exhibitors generally are happy with the diversity of product and the number of titles that have resonated with mainstream audiences.
We're not even halfway through the year, but 2021 is shaping up to be a record-breaker for Australian films at the box office.
Australian films and feature documentaries raked in theatrical revenues of $49.4 million in calendar 2017, a market share of 4.1 per cent.
The local feature films and feature documentaries released in cinemas in the first four months of this year, plus a few holdovers, have collectively grossed $32 million.
Exhibitors have renewed calls to address the challenges facing most Aussie films in the crowded theatrical market.
The Australian films and feature docs released in cinemas last year, including minor contributions from holdovers, generated more than $40.2 million.
Given the record number of titles flooding into cinemas this year, Australian feature films and documentaries overall have performed respectably, most as limited releases with minimal marketing.
The 18 Australian films and feature docs released in cinemas since the start of the year, plus holdovers, have racked up a modest $14.3 million.