How to Co-Produce Across Borders Without Compromising the Director’s Vision?

Mother is a case study in the complexity—and the possibilities—of contemporary European co-production.

How do you make an ambitious auteur film across 7 countries, 16 funding sources, multiple co-producers, a sales agent, international distributors and broadcasters, while protecting the quality, identity and original vision of the director?

Every additional partner brings new opportunities, but also new expectations. Different countries have different funding systems and cultural requirements. Public funds have eligibility and territorial rules. Broadcasters have audiences and scheduling priorities. Distributors think about their territories and markets. Sales agents need to position the film internationally. Co-producers bring their own expertise, responsibilities and interests.

At the centre of all of this, however, there is still one film—and one director’s vision.