AFM® 2024 Wraps Market with Attendance Exceeding 2023 and Five-Days of Sessions Featuring Leading Industry Executives From Around the World

AFM® 2024 Wraps Market with Attendance Exceeding 2023 and Five-Days of Sessions Featuring Leading Industry Executives From Around the World

LOS ANGELES, CA – November 15, 2024 – The American Film Market® (AFM®) concluded its 45th edition on Sunday, November 10, marking its first first-ever show in Las Vegas. The market, which took place at Palms Casino Resort, brought together sales and production companies, buyers, financiers, film commissions, and representatives from every sector of the independent film industry from 87 countries for a dynamic week of deal-making, screenings, conferences, networking and parties.

The total number of attendees that visited the AFM was 5,522. Exhibition space sold out in September and included 286 registered companies from 34 countries, with the largest number of exhibitors after the United States (113) coming from the United Kingdom (23), France (19), Romania (17), Italy (16), Thailand (16) and China (10).

Nearly 500 Buying companies from 63 countries representing every avenue of distribution were present at the market, the majority sending multiple representatives. The number of Buyers in attendance this year exceeded 2023 and 2022 with the highest number coming from the United States followed by Germany, the Republic of South Korea, the United Kingdom, China, France, Spain, Japan, Italy, Canada, Brazil, the Netherlands, Australia, Mexico, Turkey and the Ukraine.

Continuing its renowned conference program, The AFM Sessions presented by Wrapbook and Film Hawaii, took place alongside the market on two stages at Palms Casino Resort and presented a lineup of 29 sessions. Featuring nearly 120 industry thought-leaders, the sessions provided attendees a wealth of timely film financing, production, sales, distribution, screenwriting, DEI, social impact and sustainability topics.

AFM’s long-running Pitch Conference reunited award-winning producer Cassian Elwes, Elevated Film Sales, Lee Jessup, leejessup.com and Lorelle Lynch, AGC Studios on stage on Saturday, Nov. 9 where they listened and provided feedback on pitches from over 20 attendees. Writer/producer Ashley Bratcher was awarded top honors for her feature film Pharma based on the true story of Dr. Frances Kelsey.

A four-part series showcasing Spanish Producers presented by Festival De Malaga – Spanish Screenings On Tour also took center stage.

Included among the many speakers were Mary Aloe, Aloe Entertainment / Partners in Kind, Brian Beckmann, Arclight Films, Kyle Bowser, NAACP, Matt Brodlie, Upgrade Productions, Ryan Broussard, Wrapbook, Karin Chien, Art & Action Productions, Clay Epstein, Film Mode Entertainment, Heather Fipps, Hollywood Climate Summit/The Redford Center, Stuart Ford, AGC Studios, Julian Franco, Fox Entertainment, Arianne Fraser, Highland Film Group, Alexis Garcia, CAT5, Jonathon Glucksman, Wondermind, Emily Gotto, Shudder, Jeffrey Greenstein, A Higher Standard, George Hamilton, Protagonist Pictures, Charles Hopkins, Concord Originals, James Huntsman, Blue Fox Entertainment, Katie Irwin, WME Independent, Lloyd Kaufman, Troma Films, Chris McGurk, Cineverse, Michael Musante, Cherokee Film, Amos Newman, Fifth Season, Brian O’Shea, The Exchange, Paula Paizes, Pressman Films, Miguel Palos, AGC Studio, Sébastien Raybaud, Anton, Robert Rippberger, SIE Society, Patrick Rizzotti, Blue Fox Financing, Sav Rodgers, Transgender Film Center, Alex Schmider, GLAAD, Jay Torres, Collectivo, Peter Van Steemburg, XYZ Films.


About the American Film Market® (AFM®)

The AFM is where the global film and television business comes to life every November. The only independently produced international sales market, hundreds of finance, production, sales and distribution companies and thousands of professionals from every segment of the industry, convene at AFM for six days of discovery, development, deal making, networking, marketplace discussions and world-class conferences. The AFM is produced by the Independent Film & Television Alliance® (IFTA®) and serves as the annual fundraiser for the association.

About the Independent Film & Television Alliance® (IFTA®)
IFTA is the global trade association for independent film and television production, finance, distribution, and sales companies. The organization represents the independent sector before governments and international bodies and provides significant entertainment industry services to independent companies around the world. 

AFM Exhibition Space Sells Out For Inaugural 2024 Las Vegas Event

American Film Market® Exhibition Space Sells Out For Inaugural 2024 Las Vegas Event Nov 5 – 10 At Palms Casino Resort World’s Leading Independent Production, Sales, Distribution & Buying Companies Confirmed

The AFM® Sessions to Present 30 Panels & Presentations with Leading Industry Experts, Producers & Financiers
One-on-One Conversations with Innovators Stuart Ford (AGC Studios) and Sébastien Raybaud (Anton) Take Center Stage on Thursday, Nov 7

Los Angeles, CA – October 30, 2024 – The American Film Market® (AFM®) is set to raise the curtain on its 45th edition and first-ever show in Las Vegas next week with Exhibition space sold out and Buyer and Attendee registrations running strong with participants confirmed from 80 countries. AFM24 will run over six days, Nov. 5 – 10, 2024 at Palms Casino Resort in Las Vegas. The move to Las Vegas was announced by the Independent Film & Television Alliance® (IFTA®) and its Board of Directors in March 2024. This year, AFM will host Market activities in a single location at Palms, including Exhibit Space, 200+ AFM Screenings at the Palms’ Brenden Theatres, and The AFM Sessions.

Physical Exhibition space for Market sold out last month and AFM will open with 286 sales, production, and distribution companies, along with international trade organizations, film commissions, and national umbrella stands from 34 countries. Exhibitors include A24, AGC Studios, Altitude Film Sales, Anton, Arclight Films, Bankside Films, Beta Cinema, Black Bear Pictures, Blue Fox Entertainment, Capstone Global, Charades, CJ ENM, Cornerstone, Embankment Films Limited, FILMAX, Film Mode Entertainment, FilmNation, Gaumont, GOODFELLAS/Wild Bunch International, Gravitas Ventures, HanWay Films, Lakeshore, Lionsgate, Mister Smith, NEON, Odin’s Eye Entertainment, Pathé Films, STUDIOCANAL, , Toei Company, Trust Nordisk, The Veterans, Voltage Pictures, WME Independent, and XYZ Films, among many others.

Countries, including China, France, Germany, Italy, Romania and Thailand, will host dedicated Umbrella Stands showcasing national companies and producers. Exhibitor Offices and Meeting tables will be located in AFM’s designated hub, Palms’ Fantasy Tower floors 8-17, 25, and 26 as well as in Nove. In addition, LocationEXPO at AFM will welcome Film Commissions, Government Agencies and Production Service Companies from the U.S. and as far as Barbados, Italy, Japan, the Philippines, Saudi Arabia and Thailand.  LocationEXPO will be located in the Palms Ballroom on the 2nd Floor. View the full Exhibitor List.

Alongside the sales and licensing activity, LocationExpo and Screenings, The AFM Sessions presented by Wrapbook & Film Hawaii, will present 100 leaders, experts and influencers on 30 panels and presentations across two stages. A key attraction of this year’s Sessions, “The Innovators” will welcome two of the independent industry’s most prominent figures, Stuart Ford, Chairman & CEO, AGC Studios, and Sébastien Raybaud, Founder & CEO, Anton, to the stage Thursday morning, November 7 for engaging, one-on-one interviews with Jeremy Kay of Screen International and Scott Roxborough of The Hollywood Reporter, respectively.

Other Session highlights Include: (See the full schedule of AFM Sessions).

November 6:

From Local to Global: Developing Stories & Content for Worldwide Appeal – Main Stage

  • Matt Brodlie, Upgrade Productions
  • Katie Irwin, WME Independent
  • Matt Mueller, Screen International
  • Peter Van Steemburg, XYZ Films

Finding Gold: Discovering Captivating Narratives and Essential Story Ideas for Your Next Project – Main Stage

  • Miranda Bailey, Cold Iron Pictures
  • Karin Chien, dGenerate Films, Art & Action Productions
  • Phil Goldfine, Producer
  • Michele Kanan, Producer, Writer and Director
  • Michael Musante, Cherokee Film

Producing and Financing Films for Social Impact – Main Stage

  • Mary Aloe, Aloe Entertainment / Partners in Kind
  • Josh Harris, Peachtree Media
  • Jonathon Glucksman, Wondermind
  • Robert Rippberger, SIE Society
  • Jarnell Stokes, Stoked Bros. Media

Working with SAG-AFTRA as an Independent – View Stage

  • Olga Rodriguez-Aguirre, SAG-AFTRA

November 7

Finance I – Independent Film Financing in Today’s Financial Landscape – Main Stage

  • Jill Goldsmith, Deadline
  • Jon Gosier, Film Hedge
  • George Hamilton, Protagonist Pictures
  • Paula Paizes, Pressman Films
  • Miguel Palos, AGC Studio

Confronting Fear – Transcending, Challenging & Elevating the Horror Genre – Main Stage

  • Gregory Chambet, WTFILMS
  • Emily Gotto, Shudder
  • Tom Malloy, Glass House Distribution
  • Bob Portal, AMP
  • Priscilla Ross Smith, The Coven

November 8

Finance II: How to Choose a Location to Maximize Your Budget – Main Stage

  • Ryan Broussard, Wrapbook
  • Jeffery Greenstein, A Higher Standard
  • Andi Isaacs, University of Nevada-Las Vegas, Formerly Summit Entertainment
  • Simon Williams, Palisades Park Pictures

Black Culture at the Epicenter of Hollywood – View Stage

  • Kyle Bowser, NAACP Hollywood Bureau

Casting for Low-Budget Films – View Stage

  • Monica Kelly, CSA, Treadwell / Kelly Casting
  • Jennifer K.M. Treadwell, CSA, Treadwell / Kelly Casting

The Untold Realities of Global Film Sales: What’s Really Shaping Today’s Market?

  • Clay Epstein, Film Mode Entertainment
  • Tiffany Boyle, Ramo Law PC
  • Mimi Steinbauer, Radiant Films International
  • Brian O’Shea, The Exchange

November 9

AFM Pitch Conference: Mastering the Art of Pitching & Live Pitches – Main Stage

  • Cassian Elwes, Elevated
  • Lee Jessup, leejessup.com
  • Lorelle Lynch, AGC Studios

Killing It at the Box Office: How Cineverse’s Horror Sensation Won Opening Weekend – Main Stage

  • Chris McGurk, Cineverse
  • Lauren McCarthy, Cineverse
  • Thomas K Arnold, Media Play News

Maximizing Impact: Crafting Powerful Films with Limited Budgets – Main Stage

  • Paul Bales, The Asylum
  • Jeff Deverett, Producer
  • Efuru Flowers, Flourishing Films
  • Chris Gore, Film Threat
  • Max Woertendyke, Noble Gas Media

For More Information on AFM and to Register, visit: americanfilmmarket.com.

About the American Film Market® (AFM®)

The AFM is where the global film and television business comes to life every November. The only independently produced international sales market, hundreds of finance, production, sales and distribution companies and thousands of professionals from every segment of the industry, convene at AFM for six days of discovery, development, deal making, networking, marketplace discussions and world-class conferences. The AFM is produced by the Independent Film & Television Alliance® (IFTA®) and serves as the annual fundraiser for the association.

About the Independent Film & Television Alliance® (IFTA®)
IFTA is the global trade association for independent film and television production, finance, distribution, and sales companies. The organization represents the independent sector before governments and international bodies and provides significant entertainment industry services to independent companies around the world. 

About Palms Casino Resort

Palms Casino Resort is a trailblazer as the first Las Vegas resort fully owned and operated by a Native American tribe, the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians. With 766 hotel rooms and suites across two towers, Palms offers a dynamic mix of bars and restaurants including the acclaimed steakhouse Scotch 80 Prime, the popular A.Y.C.E Buffet, and celebrity chef-driven eateries including Mabel’s BBQ by Chef Michael Symon and sky-high dining at Vetri Cucina from Chef Marc Vetri. Home to live entertainment venues, and unique lifestyle experiences within a redesigned 95,000-square-foot casino, amenities include free valet and self-parking, The Pearl (a 2,500-seat concert theater), Ghostbar Rooftop Lounge, The Spa & Salon, the Brenden Theatre 14-screen cinema, over 190,000 square feet of meeting space, and nearly 600 units at Palms Place condominiums. Sammy’s Island at Palms Pool, named after rock legend Sammy Hagar, offers island fun and laid-back vibes. Palms features innovative suites like the Hardwood Suite for basketball fans, the Kingpin Suite for bowling enthusiasts, and many more theme suites. The Sky Villa suites, with masterful artwork and private pools & terraces, with breathtaking views of the Strip provide unmatched luxury for unforgettable experiences. Located just west of the Las Vegas Strip off I-15 on Flamingo Road, Palms Casino Resort is owned by The San Manuel Gaming and Hospitality Authority (SMGHA), an affiliate of the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians. For more details, visit palms.com or the Palms Press Room.

American Film Market® Exhibitors Show Strong Early Support For Inaugural 2024 Las Vegas Event

American Film Market® Exhibitors Show Strong Early Support For Inaugural 2024 Las Vegas Event

Los Angeles, CA – July 15, 2024 — The American Film Market® (AFM®) today announced the current lineup of participating Exhibitors for its upcoming 45th edition, scheduled for November 5-10, 2024. This year marks a significant milestone as the AFM relocates to the Palms Casino Resort in Las Vegas for the first time.

With AFM still four months away, Exhibitor registrations are surging, with early sign-ups far surpassing previous years. Currently, 145 sales, production, and distribution companies, along with international trade organizations, film commissions, and national umbrella stands from 25 countries have secured spaces in The Palms’ Fantasy Tower, AFM’s designated hub. The ongoing influx of Exhibitor commitments establishes serious momentum for the Las Vegas show and indicates that AFM 2024 will exceed recent participation levels.

Exhibitors to date include major international companies and organizations such as A24, AGC Studios, Altitude Film Sales, Anton, Arclight Films, The Asylum, Bankside Films, Black Bear Pictures, Blue Fox Entertainment, Charades, Cinema Management Group, CJ ENM, Cornerstone, Embankment Films Limited, The Exchange, Fantawild Animation Inc., Film Factory Entertainment, Film Mode Entertainment, Film Seekers, FilmNation, Gaumont, GOODFELLAS /Wild Bunch International, HanWay Films, Highland Film Group, Inc., Indie Rights, Lakeshore, Lionsgate, Myriad, NEON, Pathé Films, The Playmaker Munich, Protagonist Pictures, STUDIOCANAL, Telepool GmbH, The Match Factory, Trust Nordisk, Unifrance, The Veterans, Vision Films, Inc., Voltage Pictures, WestEnd Films, WME Independent, and XYZ Films, among many others.

Buyer and Attendee participation is also running strong since registration opened in mid-June, with participants from 45 countries already registered. Organizers estimate total participation to come from more than 80 countries.

Early commitments from Exhibitors and Buyers underscores the event’s global significance and returning confidence in the business.  The convenience of hosting all participants and Market activities in a single location, including AFM Screenings at The Palms’ Brenden Theatres and The AFM Sessions, also is welcomed by Exhibitors and Buyers alike.

AFM 2024 will be a landmark event for global content, offering unparalleled opportunities for discovering the newest independent film and TV productions and projects and an energetic and efficient environment for business transactions, networking, knowledge sharing, and educational opportunities. Further details about AFM Exhibitors and the comprehensive event schedule, conferences and speakers will be announced in the coming weeks and months.

For the Current List of AFM Exhibitors, visit: americanfilmmarket.com/exhibitor-list-2024.

For More Information on AFM and to Register, visit: americanfilmmarket.com.

About the American Film Market® (AFM®)
The AFM is where the global film and television business comes to life every November. The only independently produced international sales market, hundreds of finance, production, sales and distribution companies and thousands of professionals from every segment of the industry, convene at AFM for six days of discovery, development, deal making, networking, marketplace discussions and world-class conferences. The AFM is produced by the Independent Film & Television Alliance® (IFTA®) and serves as the annual fundraiser for the association.

About the Independent Film & Television Alliance® (IFTA®)
IFTA is the global trade association for independent film and television production, finance, distribution, and sales companies. The organization represents the independent sector before governments and international bodies and provides significant entertainment industry services to independent companies around the world. 

About Palms Casino Resort
Palms Casino Resort is a trailblazer as the first Las Vegas resort fully owned and operated by a Native American tribe, the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians. With 766 hotel rooms and suites across two towers, Palms offers a dynamic mix of bars and restaurants including the acclaimed steakhouse Scotch 80 Prime, the popular A.Y.C.E Buffet, and celebrity chef-driven eateries including Mabel’s BBQ by Chef Michael Symon and sky-high dining at Vetri Cucina from Chef Marc Vetri. Home to live entertainment venues, and unique lifestyle experiences within a redesigned 95,000-square-foot casino, amenities include free valet and self-parking, The Pearl (a 2,500-seat concert theater), Ghostbar Rooftop Lounge, The Spa & Salon, the Brenden Theatre 14-screen cinema, over 190,000 square feet of meeting space, and nearly 600 units at Palms Place condominiums. Sammy’s Island at Palms Pool, named after rock legend Sammy Hagar, offers island fun and laid-back vibes. Palms features innovative suites like the Hardwood Suite for basketball fans, the Kingpin Suite for bowling enthusiasts, and many more theme suites. The Sky Villa suites, with masterful artwork and private pools & terraces, with breathtaking views of the Strip provide unmatched luxury for unforgettable experiences. Located just west of the Las Vegas Strip off I-15 on Flamingo Road, Palms Casino Resort is owned by The San Manuel Gaming and Hospitality Authority (SMGHA), an affiliate of the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians. For more details, visit palms.com or the Palms Press Room.

IFTA Announces American Film Market Move To Las Vegas’ Palms Casino Resort 2024

IFTA® Announces American Film Market® Move To Las Vegas’ Palms Casino Resort For 2024 Show, November 5-10

Companies Including Arclight Films, Blue Fox Entertainment, Cornerstone, Film Mode Entertainment, FilmNation Entertainment, HanWay Films, Lakeshore Entertainment, Millennium Media, Myriad Pictures, NEON, Protagonist Pictures, The Exchange, WME Independent & XYZ Films Already Committed as Exhibitors at the Palms for AFM24

Los Angeles, CA – March 8, 2024 — The Independent Film & Television Alliance® (IFTA®) and its Board of Directors today announced that the American Film Market® (AFM®), its industry flagship event, will relocate to Palms Casino Resort in Las Vegas for its 45th edition. Scheduled for November 5 to 10, 2024, this move marks a new chapter for AFM.

Held in Los Angeles and Santa Monica for over four decades, AFM is a cornerstone event for the independent entertainment industry. The decision to move AFM to Las Vegas comes after a multi-city search and careful consideration of the needs of AFM’s Exhibiting Sales Companies and Buyers and reflects IFTA’s dedication to creating the optimal environment where the global film and television industry can converge, collaborate, and conduct business seamlessly.

“After extensive research, discussions with the Board and invaluable feedback from stakeholders, this move underscores our determination to evolving AFM to meet today’s industry needs,” said Clay Epstein, IFTA Chairperson and President of Film Mode Entertainment. “The strength of the AFM lies in its ability to create community and present a sophisticated platform for all our participants’ activities in one convenient location. The Palms enables us to do all of that and beyond.”

Palms Casino Resort offers a wealth of modern facilities and conveniences, all in a single location for an enhanced market experience. Highlights include newly renovated rooms and suites for Exhibitor office space and guest rooms, the Brenden Theatres’ 14 screen state-of-the-art multiplex, and more than 170,000 square feet of dedicated conference, meeting, and event space.

Las Vegas presents easy travel options, including domestic and international flights from over 160 locations, and its close proximity to Los Angeles, with over 35 daily flights, expands the options and allows AFM participants easy stopovers. Furthermore, Las Vegas offers a wealth of dining, sleeping, entertaining, and shopping opportunities, providing added value for AFM participants.

Epstein further added, “This move to Las Vegas is generating support and enthusiasm from colleagues around the world and we are excited to welcome everyone to AFM 2024 in November.”

Major production, finance, sales and distribution companies, including Arclight Films, Blue Fox Entertainment, Blacktop International, Cinema Management Group, Cornerstone, The Exchange, Film Mode Entertainment, FilmNation Entertainment, Film Seekers, HanWay Films, A Higher Standard, Lakeshore Entertainment, Millennium Media, Myriad Pictures, NEON, Protagonist Pictures, The Asylum, The Solution Entertainment Group, Vision Films, WME Independent and XYZ Films have already committed to participating in AFM24 in the new Las Vegas Palms locale, underscoring the industry’s enthusiasm for this monumental move and the importance of AFM to their businesses.

Jean Prewitt, IFTA President & CEO commented:  “AFM was created by the Independents and remains the Independents’ market.  The industry has called for a fresh look at how the market can better serve a rapidly changing business.  The Board has made a monumental decision that allows us to better serve these needs.  We look forward to introducing everyone to the new AFM venue and its offerings.”

“We’re delighted to extend a warm welcome to the American Film Market,” said Cynthia Kiser Murphey, General Manager of Palms Casino Resort. “Our team members are committed to providing the Palms signature and personalized hospitality to each and every guest. The AFM’s needs and our offerings make for a perfect match and we look forward to hosting the AFM participants this November.”

As AFM prepares to make its debut in Las Vegas this Fall, further details will be unveiled in the coming weeks and months.

About the American Film Market® (AFM®)
The AFM is where the global film and television business comes to life every November. The only independently produced international sales market, hundreds of finance, production, sales and distribution companies and thousands of professionals from every segment of the industry, convene at AFM for six days of discovery, development, deal making, networking, marketplace discussions and world-class conferences. The AFM is produced by the Independent Film & Television Alliance® (IFTA®) and serves as the annual fundraiser for the association.

About the Independent Film & Television Alliance® (IFTA®)
IFTA is the global trade association for independent film and television production, finance, distribution, and sales companies. The organization represents the independent sector before governments and international bodies and provides significant entertainment industry services to independent companies around the world.

About Palms Casino Resort
Palms Casino Resort is making history as the first resort in Las Vegas fully owned and operated by a Native American Tribe. Palms Casino Resort features two distinct towers with 766 hotel rooms and suites, a diverse mix of bars, restaurants, live entertainment venues, and immersive lifestyle experiences across a 95,000-square-foot reimagined casino. Offering free valet and self-parking, the resort also includes over 190,000 square feet of meeting, convention, and event space; the Pearl, a 2,500-seat theater; an expansive pool, The Spa & Salon at Palms; a wedding chapel; the Brenden Theatre 14-screen cinema and nearly 600 units at Palms Place condominiums.

Palms is located just west of the center of the Las Vegas Strip off I-15 on Flamingo Road. Palms Casino Resort is owned by The San Manuel Gaming and Hospitality Authority (“SMGHA”) an affiliate of the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians. For more information visit http://www.palms.com/ or the Palms Press Room. Follow Palms on social media Facebook Twitter  Instagram.

American Film Market Launches Largest Programming Lineup AVOD, TV And XR Conversations Take Main Stage For 40TH Edition

American Film Market Launches Largest Programming Lineup AVOD, TV And XR Conversations Take Main Stage For 40th Edition

Paramount Pictures’ Futurist Ted Schilowitz Set as Keynote

 
Los Angeles, CA – September 24, 2019 — The American Film Market (AFM®) will mark its 40th edition November 6 – 13 with its most expansive programming to date. New to the lineup is a half-day Television Conference and a session centered on AVOD (Ad Supported Video On Demand).
 
AFM’s more than 50 panels, roundtables and presentations will showcase international industry experts, decision makers, and academics across three stages, alongside the AFM’s industry screenings and marketplace.
 
Ted Schilowitz, XR expert and Futurist at Paramount Pictures, will also present the opening State of the Industry keynote for AFM’s half-day Immersive Summit presented by Winston Baker on November 9.
 
AFM ’s Distribution Conference on November 12 will feature The Rise of AVOD panel with speakers Floris Bauer, President, Gunpowder & Sky, Jeff Shultz, Chief Business Officer, Pluto TV, Adam Lewinson, Chief Content Officer, Tubi TV, Julian Franco, Senior Director – AVOD, Vudu, and Anthony Layser, Vice President, Partnerships & Programming, Xumo. Moderated by Bruce Eisen, President, Digital Advisors, the session will explore this rapidly expanding model and the opportunities for independent film.
 
For the first time, AFM will spotlight the small screen with a half-day Television Conference on November 11. Two panels will examine the increasing opportunities for feature-length programming and Made-for-TV Movies with TV networks and platforms. Initial panelists include producer Debra Martin Chase, Paul Bales, Partner, The Asylum, Michael Stiller, Vice President, Development & Programming, The History Channel, Tony Vassiliadis, Chief Operations Officer, MarVista Entertainment, Brad Krevoy, CEO, Motion Picture Corporation of America, and Pierre David, Chief Strategy Advisor & Producer, ReelOne/Lance Entertainment.
 
In his current role, Schilowitz works with studio leadership and the technology teams at Paramount / Viacom, exploring forms of new and emerging technologies, with an emphasis on Virtual and Mixed Reality. Three XR panels covering topics ranging from storytelling to monetization will follow his keynote.
 
View the full lineup of sessions for AFM 2019. For badge and ticket information, please visit the AFM website.
 

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About the American Film Market®
The American Film Market is the most efficient film acquisition, development and networking event in the world. Unlike a festival, AFM is a marketplace where production and distribution deals are closed. More than US$1 billion in deals are sealed every year – on both completed films and those in every stage of development and production.
 
Over 7,000 industry professionals from more than 70 countries converge in Santa Monica every November. They include acquisition and development executives, agents, attorneys, directors, distributors, festival directors, financiers, film commissioners, producers, writers, the world’s press and all those who provide services to the motion picture industry.
 
At AFM, participants can discover the entire global catalogue of available films and projects, attend 50+ best-in-class class conferences, summits, roundtables and presentations, and connect with the independent film community’s decision makers, all in one convenient location without the distraction of a film festival.
 
About the Independent Film & Television Alliance®
The Independent Film & Television Alliance (IFTA®) is the global trade association of the independent motion picture and television programming industry. Headquartered in Los Angeles, IFTA represents and provides significant entertainment industry services to more than 140 Member companies in 23 countries, consisting of independent production and distribution companies, sales agents, and financial institutions engaged in production finance. Collectively, IFTA Members produce more than 500 independent films and countless hours of television programming each year, generating more than $5 billion in distribution revenues annually. For more information on IFTA, please visit www.IFTA-online.org.
 
About Winston Baker:
Co-Founded by Katherine Winston and Amy Baker, Winston Baker is the leading producer of entertainment conferences worldwide addressing finance, innovation and growth. Winston Baker has been successfully organizing educational events globally since 2008 in cities such as Los Angeles, New York, San Francisco, Menlo Park, Cannes, Zurich, Shanghai, Beijing, Los Cabos, Rio de Janeiro, Toronto, Moscow and Singapore. Winston Baker’s conference series includes the CONFLUENCE SUMMIT, FILM FINANCE FORUM, IMMERSIVE SUMMIT, and MUSIC FINANCE FORUM. For more information, visit www.WinstonBaker.com.
 

Media Contact:
Jennifer Garnick, VP Communications
jgarnick@ifta-online.org | 310.446.1006

American Film Market® Grows Programming and Exhibition to Spotlight Immersive Technology for its 40th Edition

American Film Market® Grows Programming to Spotlight Immersive Technology for its 40th Edition

New Immersive Summit presented by Winston Baker Set for November 9
 
Los Angeles, CA — June 26, 2019 – The American Film Market (AFM®) announced today the addition of programming to spotlight immersive content and technology for the 2019 market. AFM will celebrate its 40th edition November 6-13 in Santa Monica, CA.
 
For the AFM’s expansion into Extended Reality (XR), the Immersive Summit presented by Winston Baker will take place on November 9 at the Fairmont Miramar Hotel. The half-day Summit will be a collaborative and educational event for creatives, buyers, sellers and innovators of the XR industry. The program will include keynotes and panel discussions featuring creators, international industry experts and decision makers, to address the stages of bringing immersive content, such as virtual and augmented reality, to market.
 
“The rapid developments in immersive technology are creating opportunities for artists, producers and entrepreneurs,” AFM Managing Director Jonathan Wolf commented. “The Immersive Summit is a perfect fit for our global participants who seek a glimpse into their future.”
 
“As the AR/VR industry matures, it’s crucial to provide a platform which supports immersive projects from development to distribution. We are honored and excited to join forces to bring our Immersive Summit series to the American Film Market,” said Katherine Winston and Amy Baker, Co-Founders of Winston Baker, in a joint statement.
 
Registration for the 2019 American Film Market is now open. For exhibition and registration information, please visit the AFM website.
 

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About Winston Baker:
Co-Founded by Katherine Winston and Amy Baker, Winston Baker is the leading producer of entertainment conferences worldwide addressing finance, innovation and growth. Winston Baker has been successfully organizing educational events globally since 2008 in cities such as Los Angeles, New York, San Francisco, Menlo Park, Cannes, Zurich, Shanghai, Beijing, Los Cabos, Rio de Janeiro, Toronto, Moscow and Singapore. Winston Baker’s conference series includes the CONFLUENCE SUMMIT, FILM FINANCE FORUM, IMMERSIVE SUMMIT, and MUSIC FINANCE FORUM. For more information, visit www.WinstonBaker.com.
 
About the American Film Market®
The American Film Market is the most efficient film acquisition, development and networking event in the world. Unlike a festival, AFM is a marketplace where production and distribution deals are closed. More than US$1 billion in deals are sealed every year — on both completed films and those in every stage of development and production.
 
Over 7,000 industry professionals from more than 70 countries converge in Santa Monica every November. They include acquisition and development executives, agents, attorneys, directors, distributors, festival directors, financiers, film commissioners, producers, writers, the world’s press and all those who provide services to the motion picture industry.
 
At AFM, participants can discover the entire global catalogue of available films and projects, attend 40+ best-in-class class conferences, summits, roundtables and sessions, and connect with the independent film community’s decision makers, all in one convenient location without the distraction of a film festival.
 
About the Independent Film & Television Alliance®
The Independent Film & Television Alliance (IFTA®) is the global trade association of the independent motion picture and television programming industry. Headquartered in Los Angeles, IFTA represents and provides significant entertainment industry services to more than 140 Member companies in 24 countries, consisting of independent production and distribution companies, sales agents, and financial institutions engaged in production finance. Collectively, IFTA Members produce more than 400 independent films and countless hours of television programming each year, generating more than $4.5 billion in distribution revenues annually. For more information on IFTA, please visit www.IFTA-online.org.
 
Media Contact:
IFTA/AFM
Jennifer Garnick, VP Communications
jgarnick@ifta-online.org | 310.446.1006

2018 AFM Wraps With Over 130 New Exhibiting And Buying Companies From Around The World

2018 AFM Wraps With Over 130 New Exhibiting And Buying Companies From Around The World

LOS ANGELES, CA – November 8, 2018: The American Film Market (AFM®) wrapped on Wednesday, November 7, after eight days of intense deal-making, screenings, conferences and networking, drawing thousands of global film industry players, including finance, production, sales and distribution executives.
 
In total, 7,143 participants visited the Loews Hotel in Santa Monica. Individual buyers totalled 1,357 from 73 countries with significant increases from China, Italy and Spain. The market also welcomed more than 70 new Buying companies from 28 countries with the largest number coming from the United States, followed by China, Italy and South Korea.
 
Exhibitor participation reached 393 registered companies from nearly 50 countries, with the largest number of exhibitors arriving from the United Kingdom, France, South Korea and China, after the United States. Over 60 exhibiting companies from 15 countries were new to the market this year.
 
The AFM Campus was busier than ever as attendees took in 402 screenings including 63 World Premieres – three more than last year.
 
LocationEXPO’s second year drew 51 film commissions and agencies from around the world including from Korea, Panama, Russia, Spain and Thailand. Together the organizations presented more than US1 billion in production incentives and opportunities.
 
AFM put a bigger emphasis this year on education and expanded its programming bringing more than 150 international industry experts to its three stages. AFM Conferences drew an audience of more than 700 each day listening closely to advice and insights from the likes of industry leaders Jean Prewitt (IFTA), Charles Rivkin (MPAA), Cassian Elwes (Producer/Agent), John Friedberg (STX Entertainment), Milan Popelka (FilmNation) Victor Hadida (Metropolitan Filmexport), and Syrinthia Studer (Paramount).
 
Other notable speakers include producer Caryn Capotosto, Jeffrey Greenstein (Millennium Media), Basil Iwayk (Producer), Jonathan King (Participant Media), Kirsten Schaeffer (Women in Film, Los Angeles), Ryan Turek (Blumhouse Productions), and Farhaad Virani (Amazon Studios).
 
The American Film Market is produced by the Independent Film & Television Alliance. More information on the AFM can be found at: AmericanFilmMarket.com.
 
About the American Film Market®
The American Film Market (AFM®) is the world’s largest motion picture business event. Over 7,000 industry leaders from more than 80 countries converge in Santa Monica for eight days of deal-making, screenings, conferences, networking and parties. Participants include acquisition and development executives, agents, attorneys, directors, distributors, festival directors, financiers, film commissioners, producers, writers, the world’s press and all those who provide services to the motion picture industry.

Unlike a film festival, the AFM is a marketplace – with over 200,000 square feet of exhibition space – where production and distribution deals are closed. In just eight days, more than US$1 billion in deals will be sealed – on both completed films and those in every stage of development and production.

Participants may view more than 500 screenings of 300+ films – the majority world or U.S. premieres. Titles range from big budget blockbusters that will be released by the major studios to lower budget art and genre films recognized at international film festivals.

About the Independent Film & Television Alliance®
The Independent Film & Television Alliance (IFTA®) is the global trade association of the independent motion picture and television programming industry. Headquartered in Los Angeles, IFTA represents and provides significant entertainment industry services to more than 140 Member companies in 21 countries, consisting of independent production and distribution companies, sales agents, and financial institutions engaged in production finance. Collectively, IFTA Members produce more than 400 independent films and countless hours of television programming each year, generating more than $4.5 billion in distribution revenues annually. For more information on IFTA, please visit www.IFTA-online.org.

Media Contact
Jennifer Garnick
VP, Communications
jgarnick@ifta-online.org
+310.446.1006

AFM’s New Screenings on Demand For Producers Offers 26 Films Available For Representation

AFM’s New Screenings on Demand For Producers Offers 26 Films Available For Representation

Los Angeles, CA – November 3, 2018 – The American Film Market® expanded its On Demand program for 2018 to producers seeking worldwide sales representation, offering them the opportunity to screen their films online for AFM sales agents.
 
The films are available for viewing at AFM On Demand Viewing Stations in the Loews Hotel and at AFM Screenings On Demand through March 31, 2019.
 
Below are the 26 films being offered to sales agents:
 
A Cannabis Tree, DL Hero LLC
Adventures of Jubeez: Kid Boss, Motion Pix
America’s Common Ground, Edge TV Productions
Beyond What Remains, Tharos, Inc.
Blue Lives Matter, Police and Fire Publishing
Busman’s Holiday, Smithard Communications
Carrousel, Amilux Film
Crossing, Offshore
Danni, Take It To The Stage Films, Inc.
Driver X, Paradigm Consulting
GUCA: Serbian Detox, Rhymes of a Madman Production
Kaneh Movie, DL Hero LLC
The Kidnapping of A Fish, That Storm Films, Inc.
Nomades, Paras Films
Nursey Rhyme of a Madman, Rhymes of a Madman Production
Palpitations of Dust, Saffron Splash
Papa, Di Productions
Public Transportation, Jita Films
Shooting Clerks, Auld Reekie Media
Sol De Medianoche, Mizoguchi
Tin City, Juice Media Productions, LLC
TMI, Glenn Ripps (Independent)
Underneath The Same Moon, VFXLab
Virgin Cheerleaders in Chains, Earthshine Design Productions LLC
You Have a Nice Flight, Vietwins Productions LLC
Zeroes, 1975
 

# # #

 
About the American Film Market
The American Film Market (AFM) is the world’s largest motion picture business event. Over 7,000 industry leaders from more than 80 countries converge in Santa Monica for eight days of deal-making, screenings, conferences, networking and parties. Participants include acquisition and development executives, agents, attorneys, directors, distributors, festival directors, financiers, film commissioners, producers, writers, the world’s press and all those who provide services to the motion picture industry.
 
Unlike a film festival, the AFM is a marketplace – with over 200,000 square feet of exhibition space – where production and distribution deals are closed. In just eight days, more than US$1 billion in deals will be sealed – on both completed films and those in every stage of development and production.
 
Participants may view more than 500 screenings of 300+ films – 29 new films every two hours – the majority world or U.S. premieres. Titles range from big budget blockbusters that will be released by the major studios to lower budget art and genre films recognized at international film festivals.

AFM Opens With New Buyers And Exhibitors Biggest Programming Lineup To Date More Than 400 Screenings Dedicated Four-Day LocationEXPO

AFM® Opens With New Buyers And Exhibitors Biggest Programming Lineup To Date More Than 400 Screenings Dedicated Four-Day LocationEXPO®

Los Angeles, CA – October 30, 2018 – The American Film Market (AFM) will open the doors for its 39th installment tomorrow, October 31. Thousands of global film industry players, including finance, production, sales and distribution executives will be in attendance for screenings, meetings, networking, panels, and to solidify deals on both completed films and thousands of projects destined to reach the audiences around the world. This marks the AFM’s 28th year in the city of Santa Monica.
 
The AFM will welcome at least 70 companies from 28 countries attending for the first time as buyers with the largest number coming from the United States, followed by China, Italy and South Korea, as well as Canada, Germany, Spain, Taiwan, and Vietnam. Buyers from the world’s leading digital platforms are also confirmed.
 
In addition, AFM will have at least 60 new exhibiting companies from 15 countries in the market. Of the 400 exhibitors, the United States will have the biggest presence with 160, followed by the United Kingdom (34), France (29), South Korea (22), China (17), Japan (13), Russia (12) and Germany (11).
 
Total attendance is projected to be more than 7,000. Final attendance figures will be announced later in the market.
 
For 2018, the AFM is placing an increased emphasis on industry intelligence and education, expanding its programming lineup of Conferences, Roundtables, Workshops and Spotlight Events, and adding a third venue – the AFM Gallery at Le Merigot Hotel. More than 150 speakers will take the stage for 40 sessions featuring a diverse array of topics to support virtually every facet of the business.
 
Jonathan Wolf, AFM Managing Director commented, “New distribution companies and platforms are launching, connecting independent films with audiences throughout the world. We look forward to welcoming all to the AFM. And in Hollywood’s backyard, AFM is the perfect environment for international experts, leaders and visionaries to engage in discussions and debates.”
 
The Conference Series begins Friday, Nov. 2 with The Global Perspective featuring a dialogue with Independent Film & Television Alliance® President/CEO Jean Prewitt and Motion Picture Association of America® Chairman/CEO Charles Rivkin on the major challenges and opportunities facing the film industry and how their organizations are addressing them. Following, two panels focused on business strategies and the evolving marketplace will bring together executives Arianne Fraser, Highland Film Group, John Friedberg, STX Entertainment, and Milan Popelka, FilmNation Entertainment, and buyers/distributors Sasha Bühler, Constantin Film, Victor Hadida, Metropolitan Filmexport, and Syrinthia Studer, Paramount.
 
A new half-day Blockchain Conference on Saturday, Nov. 3 will feature companies using the technology to transform the film industry, including FilmChain/Big Couch UK, AMBI Media Group/TaTaTu, Cinemarket, StreamSpace, Wardour Studios, Cinezen Blockchained Entertainment AB, and White Rabbit.
 
Among the new Roundtables is International Awakening: Investing in Gender Diversity for Expanding Audiences Around the Globe. In partnership with ReFrame, this session will take place Sunday, Nov. 4 with Jonathan King, Participant Media, Maguerite Pigott, CMPA (Canadian Media Producers Association) Kirsten Schaffer, Women in Film, Los Angeles, Alison Thompson, Cornerstone Films, and producer Janet Yang.
 
Other notable speakers include producer Caryn Capotosto (Won’t You Be My Neighbor?), producer Cassian Elwes (Mudbound), Jeffrey Greenstein, Millennium Media, producer Basil Iwayk (Sicario), Eric Smith, Facebook, Ryan Turek, Blumhouse Productions, Farhaad Virani, Amazon Studios, and Gary Michael Walters, Bold Films.
 
Market Screenings are running strong this year with more than 400 screenings of 326 films showing across 26 screens. Of these, 64 films will be World Premieres including Beautiful Darkness starring Matthew Broderick and Chloe Sevigny (Octane Entertainment); Killers Anonymous starring Gary Oldman and Jessica Alba (Fabrication Films); Killerman starring Liam Hemsworth (The Solution Entertainment Group), and Stano starring Joe Manganiello and Sofia Vergara (Kathy Morgan International).
 
Among the slate of films to screen are candidates for the Academy Awards® Foreign Language Nomination including Switzerland’s submission Eldorado (Playtime) and Germany’s Never Look Away (Beta Cinema).
 
LocationEXPO, in its second year, will take place over the course of four days of AFM – November 3-6 – in a dedicated exhibit space in the Loews Hotel. More than 60 Film Commissions, Government Agencies, Production Facilities and Services with a combined offering of billions of dollars in production incentives and resources will be represented.
 
In order to best serve its growing attendance and to provide improved access and resources for all of its participants traveling in from more than 80 countries, an AFM badge will now be required by all to enter the Loews Hotel.
 
The American Film Market is produced by the Independent Film & Television Alliance.
For more visit AmericanFilmMarket.com. For AFM’s Programming Lineup: AmericanFilmMarket.com/programs-events; For the Exhibitor List: AmericanFilmMarket.com/exhibitor-list; For AFM Screenings: TheFilmCatalogue.com/afm/screening-schedule.
 

# # #

 
About the American Film Market
The American Film Market (AFM) is the world’s largest motion picture business event. Over 7,000 industry leaders from more than 80 countries converge in Santa Monica for eight days of deal-making, screenings, conferences, networking and parties. Participants include acquisition and development executives, agents, attorneys, directors, distributors, festival directors, financiers, film commissioners, producers, writers, the world’s press and all those who provide services to the motion picture industry.
 
Unlike a film festival, the AFM is a marketplace – with over 200,000 square feet of exhibition space – where production and distribution deals are closed. In just eight days, more than US$1 billion in deals will be sealed – on both completed films and those in every stage of development and production.
 
Participants may view more than 500 screenings of 300+ films – 29 new films every two hours – the majority world or U.S. premieres. Titles range from big budget blockbusters that will be released by the major studios to lower budget art and genre films recognized at international film festivals.
 
About the Independent Film & Television Alliance®
The Independent Film & Television Alliance (IFTA®) is the global trade association of the independent motion picture and television programming industry. Headquartered in Los Angeles, IFTA represents and provides significant entertainment industry services to more than 145 Member companies in 22 countries, consisting of independent production and distribution companies, sales agents, and financial institutions engaged in production finance. Collectively, IFTA Members produce more than 400 independent films and countless hours of television programming each year, generating more than $4.5 billion in distribution revenues annually. For more information on IFTA, please visit www.IFTA-online.org.  
Media Contact
Jennifer Garnick
VP, Communications
jgarnick@ifta-online.org
+310.446.1006

60+ Film Commissions, Production Services & Facilities Set For LocationEXPO @ AFM November 3-6

60+ Film Commissions, Production Services & Facilities Set For LocationEXPO® @ AFM® November 3-6

Los Angeles, CA – October 24, 2018 – LocationEXPO®, launched in 2017, will have an even bigger presence at this year’s American Film Market. Taking place over four days of the market – November 3 – 6 – more than 60 Film Commissions, Government Agencies, Production Facilities and Services from around the globe with a combined offering of billions of dollars in production incentives, are confirmed to participate.
 
LocationEXPO® will be located in a dedicated exhibition space within the Loews Hotel making it an indispensable resource for AFM attendees to learn and gather information about locations, production incentives, services, and resources available to their projects and films worldwide.
 

AFCNET (Asian Film Commissions Network) The Mandy Network
Arizona Office of Film and Digital Media Maui County Film Office
Big Bend Film Commission Media Services Payroll
Calgary Film Center Moscow Film Commission
Castilla La-Mancha Film Commission Nevada Film Office
City of San Diego New Jersey Motion Picture & Television Commission
DITP, Royal Thai Government, Thai Trade Center Oklahoma Film + Music Office
Dominican Republic Film Commission Ontario International Airport
Durban Film Office Panama Film Commission
Estonian Film Institute PicPortugal
Film Development Council of the Philippines Polish Film Institute
Film Fiji Prosight Insurance
Film in Georgia Riverside County Film Commission
Film in Lithuania Romanian Creative Industries Federation
Film in Nepal The Royal Film Commission –Jordan
Film Oasis, Greater Palm Springs CVB San Antonio Film Commission
Film Shasta Screen Brussels
FilmLA Seoul Film Commission
Films from Israel Shooting in Spain
GloriaFX Southern Kentucky Film Commission
HANN Media State of Hawaii Creative Industries
Honolulu Film Office Taipei Film Commission
Kentucky Film Office Thailand Film Office, Department of Tourism
Korea Film Commissions & Industry Network Trade and Industry, South Africa
Louisiana Film Office Vilnius Film Cluster
LTD “Grandma Enterprise” Visit Big Bend
Malta Film Commission Wardour Studio

# # #

 
About the American Film Market®
The American Film Market (AFM®) is the world’s largest motion picture business event. Over 7,000 industry leaders from more than 80 countries converge in Santa Monica for eight days of deal-making, screenings, conferences, networking and parties. Participants include acquisition and development executives, agents, attorneys, directors, distributors, festival directors, financiers, film commissioners, producers, writers, the world’s press and all those who provide services to the motion picture industry.
 
Unlike a film festival, the AFM is a marketplace – with over 200,000 square feet of exhibition space – where production and distribution deals are closed. In just eight days, more than US$1 billion in deals will be sealed – on both completed films and those in every stage of development and production.
 
Participants may view more than 500 screenings of 300+ films – 29 new films every two hours – the majority world or U.S. premieres. Titles range from big budget blockbusters that will be released by the major studios to lower budget art and genre films recognized at international film festivals.
 
About the Independent Film & Television Alliance®
The Independent Film & Television Alliance (IFTA®) is the global trade association of the independent motion picture and television programming industry. Headquartered in Los Angeles, IFTA represents and provides significant entertainment industry services to more than 140 Member companies in 21 countries, consisting of independent production and distribution companies, sales agents, and financial institutions engaged in production finance. Collectively, IFTA Members produce more than 400 independent films and countless hours of television programming each year, generating more than $4.5 billion in distribution revenues annually. For more information on IFTA, please visit www.IFTA-online.org.  
Media Contact
Jennifer Garnick
VP, Communications
jgarnick@ifta-online.org
+310.446.1006