Luc Besson is renowned for his work in popular cinema throughout France, Europe and the world. Not only is he a prolific director, he is also an astute businessman who has contributed a great deal to the development of French cinema, France being the biggest European exporter in this industry.

Part of the production company, Europacorp, a jewel in the Besson empire, has been purchased by the Chinese group Fundamental Films, which will take a stake in its capital by investing EUR 60 million. Soon, this Asian shareholder is expected to hold 27.89% of the group, while Frontline, which represents the director’s interests, will account for only 31.58% of the capital, compared to the 43.8% it held previously. As such, another flagship of the European economy will be partially under control from outside Europe.

1.At first glance, it may seem that this association could benefit Europacorp by developing it within the large Asian market. However, is it not alarming that the second largest shareholder in Europe’s largest film production company is Chinese?

2.How does the Commission plan to curb this potentially harmful phenomenon in the future?