Channel 4 plays a pioneering role in independent British film production through Film4, which encompasses the Film4 channel, the Film4 website and Film4 productions. Headed by Tessa Ross, Film4 productions was created at the inception of Channel 4 in 1982. Film4 develops and co-finances films and is known for working with the most innovative talent in the U.K., whether new or established. It's output is defined by it's distinctive contemporary voice which resonates with audiences worldwide.

In recent years, Film4 has been involved in a range of critically acclaimed films including Kevin Macdonald's Last King of Scotland, Danny Boyle's Slumdog Millionaire, Martin McDonagh's In Bruges, Steve McQueen's Hunger, Sam Taylor Wood's Nowhere Boy and more recently Chris Morris' Four Lions and Mike Leigh's Another Year. Recent releases in 2011 include Mark Romanek's Never Let Me Go, Danny Boyle's 127 Hours, Peter Mullan's NEDS and Richard Ayoade's Submarine. Films coming up for release in 2011 are Joe Cornish's directorial debut Attack the Block; Lone Scherfig's One Day and Andrea Arnold's Wuthering Heights.