The global appetite for British storytelling is reinforcing the country's soft power, with the success of films such as ‘Enola Holmes’ serving as a case study in cultural diplomacy. The latest instalment of the franchise, starring Millie Bobby Brown and Louis Partridge, has contributed to a notable uptick in British film exports, according to industry data.
Brown, who also serves as a producer on the series, told reporters that the film’s international appeal rests on its blend of quintessentially British settings and universal themes of family and identity. “Enola Holmes is a very British story, but it resonates with audiences everywhere,” she said. The actor cited the show’s depiction of Victorian London, period costumes, and the character’s independent spirit as key factors in its global reach.
Partridge, who plays Viscount Tewkesbury, noted the role of streaming platforms in amplifying the reach of British content. “Platforms like Netflix allow British stories to travel without the constraints of traditional distribution,” he said. “It’s not just about the UK market. We’re seeing real engagement from Asia, Latin America, and across Europe.”
Official figures from the British Film Institute confirm a 12 per cent increase in the value of UK film exports in the last financial year, driven largely by high-budget series and franchise films. The ‘Enola Holmes’ franchise, which launched in 2020, is estimated to have generated over £120 million in export revenue, including licensing, merchandising, and streaming rights.
Cultural analysts point to the strategic importance of such exports. “Film is a form of soft power,” said Dr. Eleanor Chase, a fellow at the Royal Institute of International Affairs. “When audiences in Brazil or Japan watch a British film, they absorb not just entertainment but a set of values and aesthetics. That has long-term implications for tourism, trade, and diplomatic relations.”
The government’s Department for Culture, Media and Sport has welcomed the trend, with a spokesperson noting that the creative industries are a “cornerstone of the UK’s global influence.” Investment in film tax relief and training programmes has been cited as a contributing factor to the sector’s resilience.
However, industry insiders caution that the surge in exports is partly a reflection of Hollywood’s appetite for British talent and locations. “There’s a risk of being seen as a service provider rather than a distinct creative force,” said one producer who spoke on condition of anonymity. “The challenge is to maintain a clear British identity in a global market.”
Brown and Partridge, for their part, remain focused on the story. “We’re proud to represent British cinema on a world stage,” Brown said. “If that helps boost exports, even better.”
The third instalment of ‘Enola Holmes’ is expected to begin production later this year, with further implications for the balance of trade in cultural goods.
