21/02/2008

The European Film Market (EFM), organised as part of the Berlinale, has once again achieved record results in terms of the number of participants and successful deals.

This year the market welcomed – in the Martin Gropius Bau (MGB) and the EFM Exhibitor Offices – 430 companies from 51 different countries, with over 60 companies based in various hotels around the Potsdamer Platz. A total of 1073 buyers from 54 different countries took advantage of the EFM to buy film rights, representing a 3% increase on last year.

The number of accredited industry professionals who attended the 1100 screenings and other events organised by the market also rose by 10%, for a total of 6400 accredited visitors.

The market was also a success in terms of the number of deals stuck. Major companies (including Fortissimo Films, Bavaria Film International and The Weinstein Company) have confirmed that several agreements were signed for their films and projects in development.

EFM Director Beki Probst is delighted: "Once again, the market has surpassed our expectations. We are very pleased that the interest of professionals in the EFM continues to grow year after year. Once again, we will do our utmost to offer exhibitors and buyers the most conducive environment for business next year".

Moreover, the debates on digital distribution hosted by the market attracted 100 participants (distributors, directors, exhibitors, festival representatives and sellers) over a period of three days.