Constantin Film Faces Uncertain Future as Parent Company's Loan Comes Due

Constantin Film, the German studio behind the Resident Evil franchise, faces an uncertain future as its Swiss parent company, Highlight Communications, struggles with a CHF 74.5 million ($93 million) bank loan due Nov. 30, which could put Constantin's ownership in play. The studio has rebounded under CEO Oliver Berben, with Resident Evil grossing $410 million globally against a $75 million budget, and the Colleen Hoover adaptation Regretting You earning over $90 million. Berben shifted strategy toward co-productions and fan-driven projects after costly flops like In the Lost Lands and Momo. Highlight reported a 2025 operating loss of CHF 131.8 million, driven by its sports division, while Constantin remains profitable and accounts for three-quarters of group revenue. Constantin authorized issuing up to 6.37 million new shares, potentially diluting Highlight's ownership to two-thirds, though no investor deal has been announced.