Based in Berlin, the establishment of the RFK was an important element of the Gleichschaltung process and Nazi film policy.

The predecessor of the RFK was the Spitzenorganisation der Filmwirtschaft (SPIO; English: "Film Industry Summit Organisation") founded by Erich Pommer in 1923.

Established as an interest group of film producers, the association was dissolved after the Nazi seizure of power and re-established in West Germany in 1950.

The establishment of the RFK was preceded by an ordinance of the Reich Ministry of Public Enlightenment and Propaganda, which prohibited Jews and foreigners from any participation in the German film industry.

Its mission was principally: The presidents of the Reichsfilmkammer reporting directly to the Reich Chamber of Culture, chaired by Minister Joseph Goebbels, were as follows: Members of the Presidential Council (Präsidialrat) were, among others: Karl Ritter, Karl Hartl, Carl Auen, and Theodor Loos.