International Youth in Europe as Audiences of European Cinema

As of 1 January 2024, 29 million EU residents are citizens of non-member countries, underscoring the importance of studying international populations in Europe. Yet, European film scholarship rarely addresses their perspectives. This paper analyses the perception of European cinema by young international residents using a descriptive survey that explores access through digitalisation, streaming platforms, and social media. Findings show interest in European cinema among international youth and continued enthusiasm for cinema-going as a social activity, alongside heavy reliance on streaming services. Personal recommendations play a key role in film selection. European cinema is valued for its artistic quality and social realism. However, its perception is mainly shaped by Western-European experiences with limited cultural and ethnic diversity. Challenges of accessibility, marketing, and cultural resonance persist, supporting Cultural Discount Theory.