The Motion Picture Association of America released it’s “2007 U.S. Theatrical Market Statistics Report” which indicates record-level domestic and worldwide box office receipts. Filmlinker suggests that the data can be used by independent filmmakers to market their own projects:

“So why would an indie filmmaker care about this report? Well, beyond having a positive financial result from the medium that you work in - you can use those stats for your business plan. When pitching your project to potential financiers, it is always good to present a positive outlook in the industry that seeks investment. It’s arguably more difficult to convince someone to invest in your low budget film if the overall marketplace is on a decline.”

I noted that the average cost to make and market a major MPAA member film has risen about 6 million dollars over 2006’s $100.3 million level. Ticket prices have also risen, about 5% over 2006. The total number of films released has not changed significantly in the past year. Read the whole enchilada here (PDF), and compare to 2006’s report here (PDF). Another opinion on this new data comes via Norman Hollyn in an article entitled The Dismal Future of the Film Business.