BIM56315 - Film and audio products: deductions for qualifying films: time when film completed

A film is completed when it is first in a form in which it can reasonably be regarded as ready for presentation to the general public. In the case of a film intended for theatrical release at the commercial cinema this will normally be when it has been edited and is ready to be delivered to a distributor even if, exceptionally, it is later sent back to the producer for changes.

The condition that the film has to be ready for presentation to the general public should not be regarded as failed simply because the film is not put on general release. The condition is that it must be ‘ready’ for presentation not that it is actually presented. The situation may arise, for example, that general release is delayed for a period after completion or a suitable distribution deal may not be available for the film. Neither of these circumstances should prevent the film from being regarded as completed.