As an essential discussion platform to maintain a continuous dialogue with the sector on new challenges, business models, European and national funding schemes, the EUROPEAN FILM FORUM will travel to Cannes on May 22 at the very heart of the 70th CANNES FILM FESTIVAL.
In the context of the mid-term review of the Creative Europe MEDIA programme, the discussions will focus on the future of the MEDIA programme after 2020, its architecture and priorities.
This conference will include opening remarks by Giuseppe Abbamonte (Director Media policy at DG CONNECT, European Commission), a scene setter by Ira Deutchman (Professor, School of the Arts Film Program at Columbia University) a conversation with Agnieszka Holland (Director), two moderated panel discussions with proeminent industry representatives, financiers and managers and closing remarks by Lucia Recalde (Head of the "Audiovisual Industry and Media Support programmes" unit at DG CONNECT, European Commission).
Panel 1: Evolving financing models: what role for MEDIA?
Speakers: Vincent Grimond (CEO Wild Bunch); Petri Kemppinen (CEO Nordisk Film & TV Fond) and Roger Havenith, (Deputy CEO European Invetsment Fund) and Jonas Bagger (Producer, Zentropa).
Panel 2: Highlight on increasing market shares and audiences for European creations
Speakers: Eddy Duquenne (CEO Kinepolis); Isabelle Giordano (Head of Unifrance); Lone Scherfig (Film Director); Bogdan Wenta (Member of the European Parliament); Rodolphe Buet (President of MoMaGat).
In addition to this public conference, the European Film Forum will also feature a dense programme of roundtable discussions and panels with representatives of audiovisual industry and policy makers. More widely, like last year, showcase events will be organised at the Creative Europe MEDIA stand throughout the Festival.
20 films supported by the EU – Creative Europe-MEDIA programme – have been selected for the Cannes Festival this year. Almost half of them are competing for the prestigious Palme d’Or, such as Rodin by Jacques Doillon, Happy End by Michael Haneke, The Killing of a Sacred Deer by Yorgos Lanthimos or Redoubtable by Michel Hazanavicius.
