NATIONAL FILM & VIDEO FOUNDATION - Review of International Film Festival and Markets March 2021 - The NFVF
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NATIONAL FILM & VIDEO FOUNDATION Review of International Film Festival and Markets March 2021
TABLE CONTENTS
1. BACKGROUND............................................................................................................................. 2
1.1 Introduction...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................2
1.2 The objective of the study................................................................................................................................................................................................................2
1.3 Approach and methodology............................................................................................................................................................................................................2
1.4 Limitations..................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................2
2. THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN FILM FESTIVAL AND FILM MARKET................................. 2
3. THE IMPORTANCE OF FILM FESTIVAL OR MARKET........................................................... 3
4. REVIEW OF INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL AND MARKET......................................... 5
5. SUMMARY AND CONCLUSION.............................................................................................. 27
6. REFERENCES.............................................................................................................................. 28
NATIONAL FILM & VIDEO FOUNDATION
Review of International Film Festival and Markets March 2021
11. BACKGROUND • Get support for projects that have been invited to
internationally recognised pitching forums or competitions;
1.1 Introduction • Enhance the profile of their films and increase international
appeal; and
Film, mostly used as a form of entertainment, has become a
• View the profiles of international Festivals and Markets that
powerful medium to influence ideas, culture, and engage on issues
the NFVF participates in.
surrounding communities and the world. Through film visuals,
sound, and other cinema features, a viewer does not need to speak 1.2 The objective of the study
to be moved. Film Festivals or ‘Markets’ are a constructive platform
for filmmakers trying to get their message out to an audience. The purpose of this research study is to examine International
In addition to watching films, Festivals provide networking Film Festivals or ‘Markets’ and their offerings, that is to say, to
opportunities as well as participation in robust discussions with analyse what each film Festival or market offers and how film
creators. practitioners will benefit from attending such Festivals or Markets.
This review will assist the NFVF to understand what each Festival
Film Festivals or ‘Markets’ are one of the fastest-growing forms of offers and what the filmmakers stand to gain from participating
tourism.They are becoming increasingly popular in communities as in each Festival. At the end of this exercise, the NFVF will be able
a means to revitalise local economies. Festivals or ‘Markets’ play an to advise filmmakers and allocate relevant tier(s) for each Festival,
important role in promoting the community’s image, contributing thus enhancing the NFVF application process.
to the development of the economy and sustainability, thus
1.3 Approach and methodology
attracting visitors or tourists. Therefore, it is in the best interest
of the public and private sector, and non-profit organisations that Desktop research was used to gather information fromonline
wish to promote the image and “brand” of their city, to support sources and through document review. This includes external
these events. sources such as: online publications, websites, and annual reports.
South Africa consistently participates in Film Festivals around the 1.4 Limitations
world. The regular, consistent, and co-ordinated participation at
It is always easier to find and collect secondary data through
these Festivals has raised the profile of South African film and
the internet; however, there are limitations of conducting online
television content and by implication, the industry. The National
desktop research. One of the biggest challenges is that the
Film and Video Foundation (NFVF) is an agency of the Department
information is historic and outdated. Furthermore, there is minimal
of Sport, Arts, and Culture (DSAC) with a mandate to create,
documentation describing what each Festival offers.
develop, and promote the South African film industry. The
NFVF does this by providing financial support to South African
filmmakers/practitioners to attend Local and International Film
2. THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN
Festivals, promote their film and television products, share their
FILM FESTIVAL AND FILM
expertise, and promote the South African film industry.
MARKET
Film Markets and Festivals are not the same. Markets are generally
International Film Festivals or ‘Markets’ offer various opportunities,
open to trade, and the fee to attend limits attendance to industry
including:
professionals. A member of the public usually cannot buy a ticket
• International network opportunities;
to see a film at a Market or participate in it. At Markets, films
• Conduct business according to international standards and
are screened for buyers. Markets are an opportunity for buyers
develop strong business models for their companies;
worldwide to interact with those who license film rights. These
• Develop the skills needed to operate within the
licensors are usually sales agents acting on behalf of producers.
international film landscape;
Deals may be signed during the market or afterwards. The market
• Secure finance for projects;
2is also an opportunity for sellers and buyers to socialise and build production financing, networking, and distribution and thus turns
relationships with people they often conduct business with (Litwak, into a key player in the film industry, as well as society at large
2016). (Lordanova, 2015).
Buyers or “licensees” usually do not buy ownership of a film, but Traditional classifications of film Festivals include a category for
license distribution rights for a number of years in their country. the “business” type of Festival or the Festival with a “business
Another buyer might be a theatre-chain owner who wants agenda” (as opposed to an “audience” Festival, or a Festival that
to exhibit films. Some buyers want all media rights (including has a “geopolitical agenda”). An example of a business Festival
theatrical, television, digital, and home video) in a territory, and may is Cannes Internationa Film Festival. This Festival is exceptionally
sub-license some of those rights to other distributors. industry-oriented, it excludes the audience almost entirely and thus
classified as an industry event rather than a film Festival. Business
Festivals, on the other hand, are open to the public. Anyone can agenda Festivals also include all those that, over the years, have
buy a ticket to a screening. Festivals can provide a test of a film’s built up and industry networking forums: Festivals like Berlinale,
audience appeal. With a Festival screening, it is an opportunity for Venice International Film Festival (IFF), Toronto International Film
the filmmaker to see how typical moviegoers react to the film. Festival (TFF), Busan International Film Festival (BIFF), International
Other benefits include exposure to film distributors and induce Documentary Film Festival Amsterdam (IDFA), and many more.
acquisition executives. Festivals can also generate publicity for a
film and draw the public’s attention to it. Thus, once distribution Thus, the main purpose of Film Festival or Market is to offer
has been secured, the distributor may want to screen the film filmmakers a platform to introduce their work and create a
in Festivals to build awareness and perhaps generate good dialogue between people. It includes the following:
reviews. If the timing of the Festival is near the release date of
the film, participation in the Festival may help publicise the film. (i) Expose independent cinema to a new audience
Alternatively, if the film is not going to be released in the near - A good Festival shows films and related content that
future, publicity arranged sooner at the film Festival may not be are resistant to the commercial pressures of the standard
useful. When the film is released, the public’s prior coverage will mainstream fare. It is through independent films made by
have been forgotten, and the news media will consider the film old independent voices that new ideas are expressed. A great
news. The media may not review the film again or write articles film Festival champions these ideals at its core.
about it (Litwak, 2016).
(ii) T
est screening - Many filmmakers use the platform
3 THE IMPORTANCE OF FILM as a test screening. They attend to get buy-in from the
FESTIVAL OR MARKET audience in the same way as commercial film production
companies test screen their films. After assessing and
Film Festival or Market is a platform for screening or exhibition gauging the audience’s reaction at a film Festival screening,
of film productions. However, it has become the norm that film the filmmaker may choose to re-edit their film prior to a
Festivals not only exhibit films, but also engage with content commercial release.
developers, film producers, and distributiors. A variety of models
that facilitate these engagement have come about, including talent (iii) M
arketing exercise - Any filmmaker, large or small,
campuses or filmmaking academics geared towards fostering new needs to raise awareness of their film. Reviews and
talent, and pre-production or mid-production pitching sessions interviews are reasons to attend a Festival to ‘start the
meant to create an additional investment stream for the projects. hype’ and get reviews. Certain Festivals are good at
These developments have resulted in a situation where the film attracting film acquisition executives and commissioning
Festival is no longer mainly an exhibition operation but becomes editors to their screenings.
a participant in many other aspects of the creative cycle such as
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Review of International Film Festival and Markets March 2021
3(iv) Learning - Many Festivals have engaging panel (vi) A platform for new talent - Festivals have traditionally
discussions and masterclasses on aspects of filmmaking. been a place where professionals and filmmakers alike
These are of interest to both filmmakers and to the spot new talent or voice, especially graduates entering
general public. the industry or first-time filmmakers.
(v) Networking - The film industry is a people industry. It is (vii) Tourism and the local economy – Film Festivals are
not what you know, but whom! Therefore, networking is not just about the red carpet and the hype surrounding
essential for Festival culture, and this operates at different a Festival. There is a cultural exchange, jobs are created,
levels. There are different types of networks: professional the hospitality provided to visitors, and the added value
networks with other filmmakers - they often operate for commercial establishments in the Festival area also
informally; a networking forum comprising of funding benefit from such events.
agencies, financiers or sponsors, and are more formal -
usually by invitation; commercial networks in the form of
promoting the industry or collaborating partners, they
also operate similarly to funding agency networks.
44. REVIEW OF INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL AND MARKET
Overview of the film Festival or Market, what if offers, and who can attend.
Name of the Festival or Overview of the Festival or Market What does it offer Who should attend?
Market (Target market)
1. Hotdocs International Hot Docs Canadian International Documentary Hot Docs Forum and Deal Maker are the Documentary filmmakers
Film Festival Festival is the largest documentary Festival, center-piece of the Hot Docs market events, and producers.
conference, and market in North America. attracting key film financiers, exhibitors, and
Film financiers, and
agents with the very best documentary project
Hot Docs is a national, charitable organisation Commissioning editors.
presentations. Projects are pitched to
dedicated to advancing and celebrating the art of
participating decision-makers.
documentary. Their mission is to promote and
celebrate the art of documentary, showcase, and Hot Docs has three (3) Markets or networking
create production opportunities for documentary forums, namely:
filmmakers. • The Hot Docs Forum – this is a dynamic
pitching event that stimulates international
Hot Docs Festival takes place between April and May
co-production financing;
each year.
• Hot Docs Deal Maker – this is a one-on-
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one pitch meeting program for producers
seeking financing from the international
marketplace; and
• Hot Docs Networking – this is a forum for
networking opportunities and helps
connect potential funders and creative
partners.
2. International International Documentary Masterclass is a ten-day It is a knowledge network support that offers Students from film schools,
Documentary intensive workshop that offers a unique opportunity skills development in scriptwriting, directing, and film and TV professionals,
Masterclass - to everyone who wants to develop their skills in creative documentary. and anyone who wants to
INTERDOC creative documentary, scriptwriting skills, and directing hone their creative
documentary film skills can
This Masterclass is led by well-known previous
be part of this Masterclass.
lecturers of the “INTERDOC” of documentary film.
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INTERDOC is realised and organised by the
Independent Film Centre “Filmart” since 2011.
Review of International Film Festival and Markets March 2021
This workshop takes place every summer in August.Name of the Festival or Overview of the Festival or Market What does it offer Who should attend?
Market (Target market)
3. Zanzibar International The Zanzibar International Film Festival is the largest The eight full-day include local and international Filmmakers with projects in
Film Festival (ZIFF) multi-disciplinary art and cultural Festival in Africa discussion panels, workshops, screenings of the fiction, documentary,
dedicated to the exhibition of films, music, Panorama. best local and international films, and animation or experimental,
networking developing filmmakers on the and short films.
It is a non-governmental organisation established in
continent.
1997 to develop and promote the film and other
cultural industries as catalysts for regional social and In 2017, ZIFF extended its program to include a
economic growth. film and TV content market to create
commercial distribution platforms for African
Each year ZIFF exhibits more than 150 films made in
content.
Africa, the Middle East, Europe, Latin America, the
USA, and Asia (ZIFF, 2020).
This event takes place in July. Each year the Festival
has a different theme prioritising African cinema and
cinema from another African diaspora, intending to
celebrate Pan-African ideas within the creative
6
industries.
4. Toronto International TIFF is one of the world’s largest annual film Festivals TIFF has grown to become a permanent Filmmakers and producers
Film Festival (TIFF) attended by industry professionals and the public. destination for film culture operating out of the with films ready for
TIFF Bell Lightbox, located in Toronto. TIFF Bell distribution.
TIFF is a non-profit cultural organisation with a
Lightbox offers screenings, lectures, discussions,
mission to transform the way people see the world
Festivals, workshops, industry support, and the
through film.
chance to meet filmmakers from Canada and
TIFF continues to be an international platform for worldwide.
audiences, media, and industry to discover great
The Festival is mainly known as a platform for
filmmakers, explore new directions in cinema, and
promoting and popularising new films.
engage themselves in the business of film.
TIFF takes place in September.Name of the Festival or Overview of the Festival or Market What does it offer Who should attend?
Market (Target market)
5. Annecy International Annecy International Animation Film Festival is a Annecy offers considerable diversity of Animation filmmakers,
Film Festival competition between cartoon films of various workshops and seminars regarding financing, Exhibitors, Buyers,
techniques (animated drawings, cut-out papers, pitch sessions, networking, and marketing of distributors, and investors.
modeling clay, computer-generated imagery, etc.) animated films.
classified into various categories. This means, any
It also offers co-producing opportunities,
audio-visual animation created the frame-by-frame
purchasing, selling, financing and distributing
technique made for the cinema, television, and any
animation content for all broadcasting platforms.
other screening platform may be entered. This
includes:
• Short films;
• Feature films ;
• TV films;
• Commissioned films; and
• Film School Graduates Films.
Annecy takes place at the beginning of June in the
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town of Annecy, France.
6. Independent The Gotham Film & Media Institute is a non-profit The Gotham offers support to creators in Emerging and established
Filmmaker Project organisation dedicated to finding, developing, and varying stages of their project: funding, artists working in Film, TV,
celebrating the people and projects that shape the development, pre-production, production, and and audio.
future of story. It was founded in 1979 as the distribution. They host narrative and
It is also an essential event
Independent Filmmaker Project (IFP). documentary labs, Gotham Week’s Project
for financiers, distributors,
Forum conference, as well as fiscal sponsorship
IFP is a community of creators, producers, and producers, executives, and
initiatives.
distributors working across film, TV, audio, and beyond Festival programmers to
to advance the future of story. Year-round public programming also offers access bold, original talent.
creative insight as well as technological and
IFP continues to champion the future of storytelling
business guidance, which includes Filmmaker
by connecting artists across various media disciplines
Magazine, Gotham Week, the Gotham Awards,
with essential resources at all stages of their career
and the Gotham Labs.
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and projects’ development.
The program is called IFP Week, which offers a
week of meetings, screenings, panels,
networking, and exhibitions.
Review of International Film Festival and Markets March 2021Name of the Festival or Overview of the Festival or Market What does it offer Who should attend?
Market (Target market)
7. The Caribbean Tales CaribbeanTales Media Group (CTMG) is a The Festival highlights and screens films. Partner Established and emerging
International Film multifaceted group of media companies that with high schools and community organisations filmmakers of Caribbean and
Festival (CTFF) produces, market, and sells culturally diverse film and to screen and facilitate discussions of Afri- African heritage who
television content. centric films in fulfillment of educational practice their art across the
mandate. Caribbean Diaspora
CTMG includes: CaribbeanTales Inc, a registered
worldwide.
Canadian Charity; CaribbeanTales Worldwide
Distribution, a film distribution entity; the
CaribbeanTales International Film Festival, now
celebrating 15 years; Caribbeantales-TV a VOD
streaming service; the CaribbeanTales Incubator (CTI),
a year-round development and production hub for
Creatives of Colour; and CaribbeanTalesFlix, our
production arm.
CTFF celebrates the talents of established and
8
emerging Caribbean and African heritage filmmakers
who practice their art across the Caribbean Diaspora
worldwide.
The CTFF mandate fosters and encourages
intercultural understanding and citizen participation by
creating and distributing educational films, videos,
theater, and new media programs, products, and
resource materials that reflect the diversity and
creativity of Caribbean-Canadian heritage cultures.Name of the Festival or Overview of the Festival or Market What does it offer Who should attend?
Market (Target market)
8. Carthage Film Festival Carthage Film Festival is intended to highlight the The Carthage Festival offer panel discussions: African filmmakers (young,
sub-Saharan African and Arab cinema, creating bridges emerging, and experienced).
• Panel 1 – Film Industry, Marketing and
of dialogue between North and South, offering a
Distribution - this panel aims to design
meeting between filmmakers and moviegoers of all
new mechanisms that would mobilise
sides to promote opportunities for the production,
professionals and lead them to invent a
distribution, or broadcasting of Arab and African films.
new market arrangement for Arab and
African films in different media, from halls
to the internet platform, through the
television channels.
• Panel 2 – the influence of the Festival –
This panel is meant to imagine and
propose strategies to ensure that the
Arab-African films circulate frequently and
cyclically in different origins Tunisia regions,
9
as in several parts of the world. Such a
formula would have the advantage of
widening the Festival’s audience through a
selection of recent films or reviving certain
films that had already marked the Festival’s
memory.
Producers Network offers real opportunities to
meet with potential partners with financing,
co-production, distribution needs.
Carthage also provides platforms such as the
Workshop Project, Master Class.
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Review of International Film Festival and Markets March 2021Name of the Festival or Overview of the Festival or Market What does it offer Who should attend?
Market (Target market)
9. Columbus Black Columbus Black International Film Festival (CBIFF) is This Festival provides an advantage for Black filmmakers (aspiring
International Film the heart of America and home to some of the filmmakers and the community to learn about and emerging talent).
Festival (CBIFF) country’s most creative Black filmmakers. This Festival the film industry through educational
showcase new and emerging talent. workshops and panel discussions, a safe space
to showcase film, and an opportunity to
The primary objective of the Columbus Black
network with the filmmakers in the city.
International Film Festival is to showcase Black
filmmakers locally, nationally, and internationally, while
highlighting a spectrum of stories told by people of
the African diaspora.
The Festival takes place in August.
10. DC Black Film Festival The DC Black Film Festival is dedicated to exhibiting DCBFF offer screening of quality films and DCBFF supports new and
(DCBFF) quality film, web series, and television content by and awards ceremony. emerging black talent.
about people of African descent.
The DCBFF is committed to playing an integral role
10
in discovering, celebrating, and helping films and
filmmakers by bringing them to the attention of the
industry, media, and public.
The goal is to show not only great films, but also be
able to educate people. The DCBFF is committed to
playing an integral role in discovering, celebrating, and
helping films and filmmakers by bringing them to the
attention of the industry, media, and public.Name of the Festival or Overview of the Festival or Market What does it offer Who should attend?
Market (Target market)
11. Edinburgh International The Edinburgh International Film Festival (EIFF) is an EIFF is especially interested in films by emerging Emerging Filmmakers
Film Festival (EIFF) annual fortnight of cinema screenings and related filmmakers whose work manifests stylistic
events taking place each June. It is the world’s oldest boldness, the strength of form, and the ambition
continually running film Festival. to use the medium in a way that resists cliche.
The goal of the Festival is to discover and present the One major attraction of the Film Festival is the
most creative and innovative developments in world variety of notable film premieres that take
cinema, bring filmmakers to local, national, and place.
international attention, and provide a dynamic and
EIFF annually offers an inspiring and innovative
responsive platform for engagement with them and
programme of events and opportunities for
their work.
industry and filmmaker audiences.
EIFF has a strong track record of creating,
shaping, and managing innovative Talent
Development programmes across all disciplines.
Our aim is to build and expand on our
previous initiatives and deliver quality
11
programmes for filmmakers across Scotland, the
UK, and internationally.
12. Fantasia International The Fantasia International Film Festival is recognised Fantasia has been an event hell-bent on Directors, actors, producers,
Film Festival as the largest and most influential event of its kind in showcasing the most exciting, innovative, and studio representatives,
North America, a leader on the genre film scene and individualistic examples of contemporary distributors, and Festival
one of the country’s most popular film Festivals. international genre cinema. programmers
Fantasia is all about genre films or “B movies”. These In 2012, Fantasia launched the International
are low-budget commercial movies that receive less co-production market and film market
publicity. The event showcases the most exciting and component.
innovative films from around the world: action,
alternative documentary, animation, comedy, history,
martial arts, police drama, science fiction, suspense,
and urban drama.
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The three-week Festival is one of Canada’s most
beloved film Festivals. Fantasia is regularly held in July
each year and is a cultural and professional
Review of International Film Festival and Markets March 2021
destination point.Name of the Festival or Overview of the Festival or Market What does it offer Who should attend?
Market (Target market)
13. African Film Festival African Film Festival is a dynamic platform dedicated AFF offerings include year-round programs to AFF has built a reputation
New York to increasing exposure to African arts and culture by provide greater access to African films and for identifying new talent,
screening cinematic works made by and about the culture to the audiences. thereby providing emerging
people of Africa and the African Diaspora. and under-recognised
AFF goes beyond showcasing African cinema to
filmmakers—including
AFF is committed to increasing visibility and include live performances, art exhibitions, panel
women and members of the
recognition for African media artists by introducing discussions, master classes, and workshops to
LGBTQ+ community—with
African film and culture to a broad range of provide greater context for the films being
acute exposure and access
audiences in the United States and abroad, bypassing screened.
to important professional
economic, class and racial barriers.
opportunities.
14. Cannes International Cannes is one of the world’s most widely publicised Festival de Cannes offers filmmaking countries Given massive media
Film Festival events and certainly the most important film Festival the chance to showcase the richness of their exposure, the Festival is
in terms of worldwide impact. cinema in the Village International, which hosts attended by many movie
an increasing number of countries every year. stars and is a popular venue
Festival de Cannes has remained faithful to its
for film producers to launch
founding purpose, which is to draw attention to and Filmmakers get to meet industry professionals,
their new films and attempt
12
raise the profile of films, contribute to the make deals, share views, and promote their
to sell their works to
development of cinema, boost the film industry projects.
distributors who come from
worldwide, and celebrate cinema at an international
Festival de Cannes has placed emphasis on its all over the globe.
level.
Marché du Film as a way of promoting the dual
Cannes is held in France, which previews new films of cultural and economic nature of cinema. It
all genres, including documentaries worldwide. remains the world’s leading market, serving to
add dynamism to the global film industry. It
forms an integral part of the Festival because it
also facilitates networking and provides
professionals with the services and tools they
need to exchange information, hold
negotiations, and uncover new opportunities.Name of the Festival or Overview of the Festival or Market What does it offer Who should attend?
Market (Target market)
15 International Public INPUT is a non-profit organisation of public television At INPUT, TV makers from around the globe INPUT is open to all Public
Television Screening programme makers and broadcasters, organises an screen, debate, and evaluate productions that Service Broadcasters around
Conference - INPUT annual conference to discuss and challenge public TV are raising the bar in television making. the world, as well as
boundaries. It is the world’s most influential and production companies or
INPUT is looking for recent public service
longest-running Television Conference around individuals producing
television and online productions that are
Storytelling in the Audience Interest. programmes for broadcast
provocative, courageous, or breaks new ground.
on public service channels.
The conference has been held at a different
The conference in Bangkok in 2019 focused on:
broadcaster since 1976. INPUT will return in 2022.
• Fiction,
• Factual (Investigative journalism, cultural,
entertainment),
• Cross Media, and
• Young audiences from birth to legal age
(web or tv only, cross-media).
16 Jackson Hole Wildlife Since its modest beginning in 1991, the Jackson Hole The Festival is a platform to exchange and Festival delegates range from
13
Film Festival Wildlife Film Festival has grown to be the premier challenge ideas, explore new technology, and high level executives in the
international film Festival of the genre. The 6-day celebrate the world’s finest examples of natural world’s largest natural
conference is an unmatched international industry history and wildlife filmmaking through the history production,
event bringing together the world’s best natural Festival’s film competition. commissioning, and
history broadcasters, producers, and filmmakers and programming companies to
They gather from around the world in the
other industry professionals with leading scientists, independent filmmakers,
heart of Grand Teton National Park to explore
journalists, and conservationists, for one remarkable museum curators,
new media technologies and emerging market
week each autumn. conservation leaders,
opportunities, exchange ideas, and honour
philanthropists and scientists,
In addition, Jackson Hole Wildlife Film Festival notable achievements that have been made in
all of whom share a love for
presents environmental education programs environmental conservation and media.
the natural world and a
throughout the year. Collaborating with the school
commitment to fostering its
district and local non-profit groups, the Festival hosts
appreciation and
a number of programs featuring community film
preservation through media
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screenings, educational curriculum, and lectures by
and personal involvement.
distinguished filmmakers.
Review of International Film Festival and Markets March 2021Name of the Festival or Overview of the Festival or Market What does it offer Who should attend?
Market (Target market)
17. Sundance Film Festival The Sundance Film Festival is an annual film Festival In addition to screening films, the Sundance Filmmakers of all disciplines.
organised by the Sundance Institute. It takes place Film Festival hosts panel discussions, workshops,
each January in Park City, Utah, Salt Lake City. It is the musical events, and parties for the
largest independent film Festival in the United States. approximately 50,000 attendees, including
industry insiders and the filmgoing public.
It includes competitive categories, including
documentary and dramatic films, both feature length
and short films, in which awards are given for
showcasing new films.
18 Seoul International The Seoul International Film Festival is a global The Festival feature international showcases, Filmmakers of all disciplines.
Film Festival celebration of films and filmmaking in the heart of industry panels, social events, and cultural
Korea. Filmmakers & film lovers gather in one of the exchanges.
world’s most dynamic cities to honour the craft.
There are other related film Festivals:
Seoul International Youth Film Festival - focuses on
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SIYFF presents youth with youth-made films
Seoul International opening windows for creative youths with unique
and distributes them overseas so that global
Youth Film Festival viewpoints to explore their own world and nurture
film audiences could watch them.
(SIYFF) them for their bright future. SIYFF has provided a
venue for youth to share their culture through films
and media education since 1999. It aims to promote
broader international exchanges among talented cine
kids and establish network to improve their
competitiveness in the film industry.
Seoul International Women’s Film Festival – the main Seoul welcomes any film and video, including
Seoul International goal of the Festival is to introduce women’s films that fiction films, documentaries, animations and
Women’s Film Festival explore “women’s reality from the women’s experimental films from every corner of the
perspectives”. world.Name of the Festival or Overview of the Festival or Market What does it offer Who should attend?
Market (Target market)
19 Sheffield Doc/Fest: Sheffield Doc/Fest is an international film, arts Festival, The Sheffield Doc/Fest Film programme offers Documentary or non-fiction
Sheffield International and marketplace, with a mission to spark imaginations filmmakers a place for inspiration, debate, filmmakers.
Documentary Festival and empower collective capacity for change through growth, and challenge and a relevant
celebrating, championing, and debating documentary international platform to launch their films and
film and art as a collective form of engagement. art works. The following programmes are
offered:
Through supporting and sharing non-fiction INDUSTRY PROGRAMME
storytelling, Doc/Fest aims to provide a creative space
MARKET - Marketplace and pitching
for discovery, challenge, and collaboration. As an
opportunities.
internationalist and inclusive Festival, Sheffield
embodies a commitment to equality and access for all SESSIONS – Panels and debates discussing
communities, bringing together established creatives challenges and opportunities in the industry.
and new voices.
TALENT - Training initiatives and workshops.
NETWORKING - Receptions and socials, for
15
work, play, and dance.
20 Sunny Side of the Doc For 31 years, the Sunny Side of the Doc has become Whether you are a producer, buyer, or The 4-day event brings
a major international marketplace for documentary distributor of factual content, the Festival offers together broadcasters,
and specialist factual content across all platforms. It is these opportunities: decision makers, financing
the leading co-production, sales, and conference event • Establish new contacts and build co- bodies, distributors, content
for non-fiction storytelling and digital mediation. production relationships; creators, and producers
• Explore key trends in the booming worldwide to sell or buy
Every June, Sunny Side of the Doc enhances the
international factual market; projects and programmes
international co-production funding and distribution
• Pitch and develop new documentary and find co-production
of landmark documentaries and non-fiction content
projects; partners.
for all platforms by providing industry stakeholders
• Discover new talents and find new format
with an international forum for business development,
ideas; and
deal-making, and networking.
• Acquire content and/or strengthen your
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catalogue.
Review of International Film Festival and Markets March 2021Name of the Festival or Overview of the Festival or Market What does it offer Who should attend?
Market (Target market)
21. Transilvania TIFF is the biggest international film Festival in TIFF Industry hosts a series of masterclasses, Emerging filmmakers,
International Film Romania. It has grown to become the most lining-up experts in audience development and producers, and distributors.
Festival (TIFF) important film-related event in Romania and one of scriptwriting. It organises closed screenings for
the most spectacular annual events in the region. industry members and special screenings of the
newest Romanian films in the presence of
filmmakers.
TIFF’s main goal is to promote cinematic art by • TIFF Industry is open for talents from the
presenting some of the most innovative and region through Transilvania Pitch Stop
spectacular films of the moment that feature both (TPS),
originality and independence of expression, that • A tailor made workshop for feature fiction
reflect unusual cinematic language forms or focus on films,
current trends in youth culture. • Public presentation and one-on-one
meetings.
• Transilvania Talent Lab (TTL) – is a hands-
on programme dedicated to emerging
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talents.
The Festival also developed a strong
educational platform for children (through
EducaTIFF), and teenagers (through Let’s Go
Digital). The intensive workshop gives teenagers
the opportunity to cover all the steps of
filmmaking under the supervision of film
professionals and using modern equipment.
22. Venice International Venice Film Festival is the world’s oldest film Festival, The Venice Film Festival is a prestigious event Artists or filmmakers of all
Film Festival held annually in Venice beginning in late August or that presents a selection of world-class films, disciplines.
early September. bringing the most successful directors and
actors of the time on the red carpet at Lido di
The Festival aims to raise awareness and promote
Venezia, continuing the tradition that adds the
international cinema in all its forms as art,
glamour charm that always marked the Festival
entertainment, and industry, in a spirit of freedom and
to a high artistic value program.
dialogue.Name of the Festival or Overview of the Festival or Market What does it offer Who should attend?
Market (Target market)
23. Berlin International The Berlinale is a unique place of artistic exploration The film industry at the Berlinale Filmmakers of all disciplines.
Film Festival and entertainment. It is one of the largest public film • The European Film Market is an
Festivals in the world, attracting tens of thousands of international marketplace, a compass for
visitors from around the globe each year. For the film the new film year and a platform for
industry and the media, the eleven days in February innovation and change.
are also one of the most important events in the • The Berlinale Co-Production Market offers
annual calendar and an indispensable trading forum. targeted matchmaking and international
networking for selected projects, producers
and financiers.
• Berlinale Talents is the creative meeting
place of the Festival with often public talks
and workshops for film-loving audiences
and 250 selected Talents from around the
world.
• The World Cinema Fund (WCF) is
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committed to developing and funding
cinema in regions with a weak film
infrastructure and boosting cultural
diversity in German and European cinemas.
24. BFI London Film The BFI London Film Festival is an annual film Festival The BFI features the best new features films, Filmmakers of all disciplines.
Festival founded in 1957 and held in the United Kingdom, documentaries, short films, screen talks, panels
running for two weeks in October with co-operation & events, audience awards, and industry and
from the British Film Institute. It screens more than education special events. The London Film
300 films, documentaries and shorts from Festival is an opportunity to see the most
approximately 50 countries. anticipated films from around the world - right
on your doorstep.
NATIONAL FILM & VIDEO FOUNDATION
Review of International Film Festival and Markets March 2021Name of the Festival or Overview of the Festival or Market What does it offer Who should attend?
Market (Target market)
25. Cairo International The Cairo International Film Festival (CIFF) is the CIFF offer master classes and conversations Film producers, directors,
Film Festival (CIFF) oldest annually running film Festival in Africa and The with industry experts, panel discussions, Cairo and distributors.
Middle East. CIFF is one of only 15 Festivals accorded industry days, and Cairo film connection.
as a category “A” status by the international
Cairo Film Connection
federation of film producers associations FIAPF.
• This is a space for international producers,
The Festival aims to improve the taste in movies,
film financiers and film distributors, and
strengthen artistic links between countries, allow
representatives from funding bodies, sales
meetings between professionals, and build bridges
agents, and TV channels where they initiate
between workers in the field of cinema from different
international co-productions deals and
cultures and promote the film industry in Egypt, the
partnerships with films from the Arab
Arab world and other countries.
world.
26. Visions du Reel Visions du Reel is an internationally renowned The Industry activities, which bring over 1350 Documentary filmmakers.
Internertional Film documentary film Festival held in April each year in professionals to Switzerland, are dedicated to
Festival Nyon, Switzerland. The Festival is one of the rare international projects at every stage, offering a
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international Festivals in Switzerland to present a wide range of opportunities, such as tutoring,
majority of films in world or international premier co-production, funding, and distribution.
screenings.
The Festival aims to present films that, through their
formal and aesthetic choices, provide personal and
singular expressions and descriptions of past, present
or future realities, freely interpreting the very
definition of non-fiction filmmaking and its
implementation.
27. Human Rights Watch Human Rights Film Festival provides an important It is a 10-day Festival of social justice-focused
Film Festival (HRWFF) stage to share world’s most important human rights art, film, and workshops, looking for films that
stories through film and conversation. it’s a inspire people to create a better future for
community of people who believe in a world free everyone long after they leave the theatre
from human rights injustices. (Physical or virtual).Name of the Festival or Overview of the Festival or Market What does it offer Who should attend?
Market (Target market)
28. International The International Documentary Film Festival In addition to the Festival, IDFA has developed Documentary filmmakers.
Documentary Film Amsterdam (IDFA) is the world’s largest several professional activities, contributing to
Festival Amsterdam documentary film Festival held annually since 1988 in the development of filmmakers and their films
(IDFA) Amsterdam. The objective of the IDFA is to promote at all stages.
creative documentaries and to present them to as • At co-financing and co-production market
wide an audience as possible. IDFA Forum filmmakers and producers
pitch their plans to financiers;
IDFA aims to bring creative documentaries and
• at Docs for Sale new documentaries are
audiences together. Therefore, it stimulates the
on offer to programmers and distributors;
production and distribution of a wide range of
• the IDFA Bertha Fund supports
documentary films while also developing the demand
filmmakers and documentary projects in
for them. In this way, IDFA contributes to expanding
developing countries; and
and improving the international documentary climate,
• The IDFAcademy offers a international
specifically by promoting inclusivity and giving a voice
training programs for up-and-coming doc
to underrepresented filmmakers.
talents.
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29. International Film IFFR is one of the largest audience and industry- The Festival’s Official Selection includes more The Festival’s focus is on
Festival Rotterdam driven film Festivals in the world. It offers a high- than 570 features, mid-length, and short films recent work by talented new
(IFFR) quality line-up of carefully selected fiction and from almost 90 countries and offers a high- filmmakers.
documentary feature films, short films, and media art. quality line-up of exhibitions, performances,
masterclasses, and talks.
IFFR actively supports new and adventurous
filmmaking talent through its co-production
market CineMart, its Hubert Bals Fund,
Rotterdam Lab and other industry activities.
30. Rio de Janeiro Over the past ten years, the Rio de Janeiro The Rio Festival organises an annual RioMarket, Filmmakers of all disciplines.
International Film International Film Festival has stamped itself as the a business center offering Rio Seminars (round
Festival largest film Festival in Brazil and Latin America. Each table discussions about key industry issues) and
year, around 400 films are screened in over 30 Rio Screenings (a showcase for distributors and
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theaters around the city, attracting some 250,000 other industry professionals).
spectators.
The Festival serves as the world’s major showcase for
Review of International Film Festival and Markets March 2021
contemporary Brazilian cinema.Name of the Festival or Overview of the Festival or Market What does it offer Who should attend?
Market (Target market)
31. MIPCOM MIPCOM is the world’s largest entertainment content MIPCOM provides a comprehensive • Buyers and
market. The global media and entertainment industry conference programme unveiling new trends, Commissioners of
converges in Cannes to turn every moment into an strategic thinking, and business models driving content;
opportunity, transforming four days of exchange and the ever-evolving entertainment industry. • Investors;
networking, meetings, screenings and conferences, into • Distribution;
• Networking and matchmaking -
lasting business. • Content creators; and
Networking in the television and media
• Production companies.
MIPCOM is the go-to place to forge, enrich, and industry through the premium networking
strengthen business relationships. Creating and hub.
maintaining a professional network, whether you’re a • Conferences & Events – offers knowledge
distributor, producer, buyer, or commissioner, is key to & learning platform.
successfully running an international business in a • Global Participants - Global-scale gathering
highly competitive environment. where the global TV industry meet.
• World-class marketplace - The world’s
largest exhibition of studios and
distributors for premium content.
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32. Tribeca Film Festival The Tribeca Film Festival brings together visionaries The core of the Festival program is slate of Emerging and established
across industries and diverse audiences to celebrate feature and short films, highlighting politically, filmmakers.
the power of storytelling. A platform for independent culturally and socially relevant films from
filmmaking, creative expression and immersive diverse storytellers.
entertainment. Tribeca supports emerging and
Celebrating diverse, provocative and compelling
established voices, discovers award-winning
voices from the Online Space. Tribeca has
filmmakers, curates innovative and interactive
inductyr talks, a series that explores the
experiences, and introduces new technology and
business of entertainment.
ideas through panels, premieres, exhibitions, and live
performances.Name of the Festival or Overview of the Festival or Market What does it offer Who should attend?
Market (Target market)
33. Stuttgart International ITFS ranks among the world’s most important events ITFS is an Oscar-qualifying Festival that offers Filmmakers, directors,
Festival of Animated for animated film in all its aspects, and with its directors, production companies and production and distribution
Film (ITFS) or intersections with visual effects, architecture, art, distributors, as well as talent and all further companies.
Internationales design, music, science, games, et al. Every year, it professionals from the animation and games
Trickfilm-Festival attracts up to 100,000 visitors and industry industries a platform to present their films,
Stuttgart professionals from all over the world with the best of interactive and transmedia works, as well as VR
high-quality animations and interactive works. and AR projects to an interested, wide audience
and a large number of industry representatives.
34. Ottawa International The Ottawa International Animation Festival (OIAF) is OIAF provides screenings, exhibits, workshops Animators.
Animation Festival one of the world’s leading animation events providing and entertainment.
screenings, exhibits, workshops and entertainment
since 1976. OIAF is an annual five-day event bringing
art and industry together in a vibrant hub.
35. Dok Leipzig Film DOK Leipzig is an annual Festival for documentaries During the Festival Week, the international film Commissioners, buyers,
Festival and animations that celebrates film and promotes industry meets at DOK Industry to develop distributors, sales agents and
debate. The Festival focuses on the values of peace, new films and bring them to market. DOK funders, producers.
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tolerance, human dignity and freedom of expression, Industry offers networking opportunities with
along with a strong, individual artistic signature of the the highest-quality German and international
filmmakers. decision-makers and funders. This is the meeting
place for artistic documentary and a hub for
DOK Leipzig is built on more than 60 years of history
interactive and immersive arts practitioners and
and takes place every year in autumn. The Festival is
experts.
not only an important platform for directors to
present their films to the public for the first time, but The networking programme is tailor-made for
it is also a major public Festival that promotes accredited trade visitors (filmmakers, XR
debates on cinematic art and politics. creatives, producers, editors, decision makers
and distributors.
NATIONAL FILM & VIDEO FOUNDATION
Review of International Film Festival and Markets March 2021Name of the Festival or Overview of the Festival or Market What does it offer Who should attend?
Market (Target market)
36. Hong Kong The Hong Kong International Film Festival Society is a The Hong Kong - Asia Film Financing Forum Filmmakers of all disciplines.
International Film charitable, non-profit and non-governmental (HAF) is one of Asia’s premium film financing
Festival (HKIFF) organisation dedicated to the discovery and platforms. Over three days, it brings filmmakers,
promotion of creativity in the art and culture of film. investors, financiers, producers, distributors,
It is committed to making world cinema accessible buyers and sales agents together under one
and affordable to the public. roof to discuss and explore co-production
opportunities.
The HKIFF serves as a platform for international film
exchange, to promote better understanding between HAF Film Lab Programme (Film Lab) provides
global cultures, and to discover new talents from filmmakers with intensive training
around the world. It is a pioneer in introducing Hong
from scriptwriting to investor-pitching.
Kong, Chinese language and Asian cinema and
filmmakers to the world.
37. Sydney Film Festival Sydney Film Festival (SFF) is one of the longest The Sydney Film Festival presents awards in Filmmakers of all disciplines.
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running film Festivals globally, screening narrative several categories, including prizes for short
feature films, documentaries, and short films over 12 subjects and audience favourites. The 12-day
days and nights in June.The Sydney Film Festival is Festival screens feature films, documentaries,
supported by the NSW Government short films and animation from around the
through Screen NSW, the Federal Government world in venues across the city.
through Screen Australia, and the City of Sydney.
Sydney Film Festival encourages and supports
excellence in Australian filmmaking via the
Documentary Australia Foundation Award for Best
Australian Documentary and the long-running Dendy
Awards for Australian Short Films.Name of the Festival or Overview of the Festival or Market What does it offer Who should attend?
Market (Target market)
38 American Film Festival American Film Festival is a unique Festival celebrating The AFF presents contemporary independent Filmmakers of all disciplines.
(AFF) contemporary American Indie cinema. It presents productions in two major competitive sections:
contemporary independent film, both narrative and • SPECTRUM, a panorama of contemporary
documentary, as well as American classics. American cinema, focusing on filmmakers
in mid-careers and those making significant
directorial debuts, and
• AMERICAN DOCS, a program of
compelling and award-winning
documentaries from the film Festival circuit,
with Audience Awards with cash prizes for
Best Narrative Feature and Best
Documentary Feature, respectively.
39. Show Low Film Festival Show Low Film Festival is held in Arizona showing The Festival offer workshops, network, mentor Filmmakers of all disciplines.
films from all over the world. and connections.
40. Locarno Film Festival Locarno Film Festival is the most significant Apart from daily screening, Locarno Pro is the Filmmakers of all disciplines.
cinematographic event in Switzerland and among the landmark for film industry professionals
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most important in Europe. Every August, for eleven attending Locarno Film Festival. Locarno Pro
days the Swiss-Italian town of Locarno, right in the aims to enhance and deepen connections
heart of Europe, becomes the world capital of auteur between the diverse players circulating around
cinema. films in the Festival.
41. Taormina Film Festival The Taormina Film Festival is an international film The Festival offers a large local audience the Filmmakers of all disciplines.
Festival that takes place in Taormina around June or opportunity to see international films. Superb
July. The Festival has become a focal point for the film open air screenings in the Arena.
culture of this region.
42. National Arts Festival The National Arts Festival is an annual Festival of Its objectives are to deliver excellence; Filmmakers and artists of all
performing arts in Makhanda, South Africa. It is one of encourage innovation and development in the disciplines.
the biggest and most vibrant celebration of South arts by providing a platform for both
Africa’s rich and multi-faceted culture. established and emerging South African artists;
create opportunities for collaboration with
From theatre to dance, opera to cabaret, fine art to
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international artists; and build new audience.
craft art, classical music to jazz, poetry readings to
lectures, every art form imaginable is represented in
one of the most diverse Festivals in the world.
Review of International Film Festival and Markets March 2021Name of the Festival or Overview of the Festival or Market What does it offer Who should attend?
Market (Target market)
43. Durban International South Africa’s longest-running film Festival, the DIFF has three principal strands: the seminar Filmmakers of all disciplines.
Film Festival (DIFF) Durban International Film Festival (DIFF), is widely and workshop component to stimulate industry
regarded as one of the leading film Festivals on the development, a community outreach
African continent and a vital event on the programme to service marginalised audiences
international film calendar. and celebrate cinema through the exhibition of
films.
DIFF proactively promotes the African film industry’s
development and provides a strategic exhibition DIFF contributes to expanding filmmaker
platform for local products alongside international networks, attracts local and international media,
films within a professionally implemented and creates public awareness of South African and
reputable cultural experience. African cinema, and promotes and celebrates
African cinema that highlights the possibilities of
DIFF’s mission is to develop and deliver a sustainable
local film production and stimulates the film
world-class film Festival, which engages stakeholders
industry’s growth.
and achieves critical acclaim by presenting a unique
program that inspires, challenges, and entertains an
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increasingly broad and diverse audience. The Festival
aims to offer a platform for content that is unavailable
through mainstream cinema to both local and
international audiences.
DIFF takes place every July, in Durban, South Africa.
44. Cape Town The Festival’s core vision is transforming the African The CTIFMF incorporate a host of key Filmmakers of all disciplines.
International Film film industry through the three pillars of creation, initiatives and projects aimed at the local and
Market & Festival collaboration, and celebration. Pan-African film industries, as well as emerging
(CTIFM&F) and new audiences from Africa and beyond.
CTIFM&M takes place in October at various venues
in Cape Town, South Africa. The Festival market serves as the main hub of
industry activity at which deal-making,
For film professionals, an expanded and content-
networking, content sales, distribution, and
focused Market and Industry program is aimed at
training are the main objectives.
inclusive and constructive engagements that foster the
development of quality content and support the
growth of a cohesive African film industry.You can also read
