Expensive Blockbuster Movie on Netflix Rakes in $230 Million

Blockbuster Netflix Film Racks Up Impressive $230 Million Expenses

Netflix's latest blockbuster, "Back in Action," has taken the world by storm, becoming the streaming giant's biggest movie of 2025. The film, which cost a staggering $231.7 million before its release, stars Cameron Diaz, Jamie Foxx, and Glenn Close in leading roles.

The movie, produced by Netflix's subsidiary Oasis Productions, was filmed at Pinewood Studios in the United Kingdom. This choice of location has proven beneficial, as "Back in Action" qualifies for the U.K. government's Audio-Visual Expenditure Credit (AVEC).

To be eligible for the AVEC, at least 10% of a movie's core costs must relate to activities in the U.K. For "Back in Action," this means that a significant portion of its budget was invested in the U.K. economy.

The U.K. government's AVEC offers a cash reimbursement of up to 25.5% for movies filmed in the country. By the end of 2024, Oasis Productions had banked a total reimbursement of $49.7 million (£39.6 million) from the AVEC.

One of the biggest single expenses for Oasis Productions was the $13 million (£10.4 million) spent on staff. The company's financial statements, released in stages and covering the period up to December 31, 2024, provide a detailed breakdown of the film's production costs.

The movie's success has not only delighted Netflix but also the U.K. government. In 2019, every $1.31 (£1) of reimbursement handed to studios in the U.K. generated $10.88 (£8.30) of additional Gross Value Added (GVA) benefit for the U.K. economy.

"Back in Action" received a 30% rating on Rotten Tomatoes from critics and a 60% rating from audiences. Despite the mixed reviews, the film's box office success and its positive impact on the U.K. economy make it a significant achievement for both Netflix and the U.K. film industry.

The authors of this article specialize in covering the financial statements of U.K. film production companies for national media. Our analysis of Oasis Productions' financial statements reveals a well-planned and financially sound production process, demonstrating the company's commitment to delivering high-quality content while supporting the U.K. economy.

In conclusion, "Back in Action" is more than just a movie; it's a testament to the power of collaboration between the U.K. government, film production companies, and streaming platforms. As we look forward to the future of the U.K. film industry, it's clear that initiatives like the AVEC will continue to play a crucial role in attracting high-budget productions and boosting the U.K. economy.