Screen agencies as policy intermediates between small nations and transnational SVoDs

Abstract

This article presents original empirical research on the interaction between national screen agencies and transnational subscription video-on-demand services (SVoDs). Using interviews with agency executives in several small nations, it examines the dynamics of power that condition this relationship, framing the interactions as being instrumental and political for both actors. The commodified exchange between agency and SVoD builds mutual narratives of significance at a time of policy change in which both parties are likely to interact more due to the implementation of the EU’s Audiovisual Media Services Directive. This research provides further insight into ways non-regulatory interventions by policy actors attempt to secure more return from SVoDs.