Industry Insight Are Film Markets Becoming More About Networking Than Deals?

MICA

MICA

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Dec 31, 2025
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Are Film Markets Becoming More About Networking Than Deals?​

For decades, international film markets have been where producers, sales agents, distributors, buyers, and investors came together to discover projects, build partnerships, and close deals.

Today, many film industry professionals feel that while networking remains essential, more acquisitions, licensing negotiations, and financing discussions are happening before or after the market rather than on the exhibition floor itself.

Has the role of film markets changed, or is this simply how the global film industry now operates?

We'd love to hear your experience. If you've attended Cannes, AFM, EFM, TIFF, Ventana Sur, or other international film markets, have you noticed a shift? Are film markets becoming more about networking than dealmaking, or are the biggest deals simply happening behind the scenes?
 
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MICA said:

Are Film Markets Becoming More About Networking Than Deals?​

For decades, international film markets have been where producers, sales agents, distributors, buyers, and investors came together to discover projects, build partnerships, and close deals.

Today, many film industry professionals feel that while networking remains essential, more acquisitions, licensing negotiations, and financing discussions are happening before or after the market rather than on the exhibition floor itself.

Has the role of film markets changed, or is this simply how the global film industry now operates?

We'd love to hear your experience. If you've attended Cannes, AFM, EFM, TIFF, Ventana Sur, or other international film markets, have you noticed a shift? Are film markets becoming more about networking than dealmaking, or are the biggest deals simply happening behind the scenes?
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I've noticed a real shift over the past few years. Most of my important meetings are arranged weeks before the market even begins, and very few projects are discovered by chance anymore. For me, film markets are still incredibly valuable, but they're now much more about strengthening relationships than walking away with a signed deal.
 
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