Obsession with stars is block to making films, says Eyre

The veteran director Sir Richard Eyre has said it is "very hard" to get small-budget, independent dramas made any more because studio bosses are so obsessed with "bankable" celebrity names.

- Nadia Khomami

Eyre, who has won five Olivier awards and a Bafta for his work across film, theatre, TV and opera, has spoken of the importance of making drama that embraces social realism, especially in an era where the industry is increasingly reliant on superhero films and franchises to attract audiences.

"Culture should reflect our lives," the 81-year-old said. "At the heart of all art is the opportunity to see through other people's eyes. The most difficult invocation is to love thy neighbour as thyself, but it should be the cornerstone of every society. And drama helps us do that because it helps us understand each other."

However, Eyre, whose films include Iris (2001) and Notes on a Scandal (2006), said the creative industry was increasingly after a "safe bet" these days.

"It's very hard to get small-budget, independent films on any subject made," he said. "So often, the sales agent will say: 'Well, who's in it?' It's become about who is bankable, and it changes from day to day. Suddenly, some star emerges, and overnight you have to get them to get your film made."

Eyre reminisced about what he called "the golden age of socially conscious TV", which included "hugely influential" shows such as Boys from the Blackstuff.