The years 2023 and 2024 were turbulent for the film and television industry, as we collectively weathered one of the most challenging periods in recent memory. 

Productions stalled, budgets tightened, and an air of uncertainty loomed over creative projects worldwide. 

Many of us held on by our fingertips, driven by a new mantra: “Survive to 25.” 

But is survival enough? 

While the industry undoubtedly faced adversity, now is the time to shift our mindset. 

Instead of aiming to simply survive until 2025, we must rally around a new vision: “thrive in 2025!” 

Here’s why our outlook should be about growth, evolution, and success rather than just getting by. 

Challenges That Tested Us 

The last couple of years were filled with events and obstacles that tested the resilience of filmmakers, studios, and post-production teams alike: 

Pandemic Aftershocks: The lingering effects of the pandemic disrupted workflows, slashed budgets, and upended traditional production models. Health and safety concerns became a top priority, resulting in delays, logistical complications, and a shift towards smaller, more nimble productions. 

Strikes and Labor Disputes: As the industry grappled with evolving labour conditions, strikes and contract negotiations disrupted both film and television production schedules. Creatives and technical crews faced prolonged periods of uncertainty as they fought for fair wages, working conditions, and sustainable models for the future.  

Technological Shifts: The rapid adoption of new technologies, while essential for remote collaboration and production efficiency, forced many to learn new skills and embrace workflows that were foreign to them. The rise of AI, virtual production, and cloud-based workflows required swift adaptation. 

Economic Constraints: Rising costs in nearly every aspect of production—from talent to equipment—put immense pressure on budgets. Small studios and indie filmmakers particularly felt the squeeze as they struggled to secure financing in an increasingly competitive market. 

Survive to 25 

Amid all this upheaval, the call to “Survive to 25” became a rallying cry for the industry. It was a reminder to keep pushing forward, to hold on just a little longer. And for many of us, that was exactly what we needed to hear in the moment. 

But now, as we approach the horizon of 2025, it’s time to ask ourselves: Can we do more than just survive? 

Building a Future Where We Thrive 

2025 shouldn’t merely be the year we make it through—it should be the year we emerge stronger, more innovative, and more unified. 

Here’s how we can shift the narrative from survival to thriving: 

Embrace Innovation: Technology was once seen as a disruptive force, but now it’s clear that innovation can be our greatest ally. AI-powered tools, virtual production techniques, and cloud-based workflows have transformed how we create. 

In 2025, we should fully embrace these advancements, using them not just to cut costs, but to enhance creativity, collaboration, and storytelling. Let’s lead with innovation, using it to open new creative possibilities. 

Foster Collaboration: The challenges of 2023 and 2024 proved that no one can succeed in isolation. The industry’s future lies in collaboration—not just between filmmakers, but across disciplines, industries, and borders. Post-pandemic, remote production and international partnerships have become more common. 

In 2025, let’s take this to the next level, building stronger networks and ecosystems that allow us to co-create, share resources, and succeed together. 

Champion New Voices: The years of hardship revealed deep inequalities within the industry, but they also spotlighted the incredible resilience of underrepresented voices. In 2025, we should focus on fostering diversity and inclusion—not as buzzwords, but as pillars of our growth strategy. By championing new voices, we open ourselves up to new perspectives and stories that can resonate on a global scale. 

Sustainable Production Models: As we look towards the future, sustainability in production is no longer optional—it’s essential. 2023 and 2024 showed us the fragility of our systems, from supply chains to set operations. Moving forward, let’s focus on sustainable, resilient production models that balance creativity with environmental and economic responsibility. 

Reignite the Passion for Storytelling: At the heart of our industry is the passion for storytelling. The hardships of recent years may have dimmed some of that flame, but now is the time to reignite it. As we head into 2025, let’s remember why we got into this industry in the first place—to tell stories that move, inspire, and connect people. This is our chance to break new ground creatively and to rekindle the excitement that comes from creating something truly original. 

A New Mantra for the Future 

As we prepare to step into 2025, let’s shed the survival mindset. 

The challenges we’ve faced have made us more resilient, more adaptable, and more capable of thriving in the face of uncertainty. 

The mantra moving forward isn’t “Survive to ‘25.” 

Instead, it should be “Thrive in ‘25”. 

We have the tools, the talent, and the determination to not just endure, but to flourish. Let’s seize the opportunity to build an industry that is more innovative, inclusive, and resilient than ever before. 

In 2025, we won’t just be survivors. We’ll be thriving! 

If you are ready to Thrive in 2025 and want to get behind this new vision for the TV and film industry, please like, share and let me know your thoughts and ideas in the comments.