The future of film is increasingly global. Stories may begin in one country, find financing in another, connect with production partners somewhere else, and ultimately reach audiences around the world. Initiatives such as Producers Without Borders demonstrate how international film markets can create those connections—and open doors for producers looking to take their projects beyond their home markets.According to Telefilm Canada, the Producers Without Borders initiative is designed for Canadian feature-film producers who are interested in international co-production but have not yet served as the lead producer on an official completed international co-production.
The initiative is connected to the Berlinale Co-Production Market, part of the European Film Market in Berlin.The opportunity goes beyond simply receiving a market badge. Selected participants gain access to programming designed to introduce producers to international partners, including meet-and-match opportunities, speed meetings, industry panels, country sessions, expert consultations and networking events. Participants can also receive visibility through an EFM brochure featuring participating companies and their representatives.That matters because international co-production is about much more than finding someone to help finance a film. It is about building relationships between producers, financiers, distributors, sales agents, funding organizations and other industry professionals who can help a project travel.For producers attempting to establish themselves internationally, these relationships can become an important part of a project's development strategy.
Telefilm Canada states that up to 10 applicants are selected, with consideration given to the applicant's objectives, production-company and producer track record, international training or workshop experience, financing history and recognition within national or international film festivals. Projects are also evaluated for their potential to become international treaty co-productions or to be sold in international markets.There is an important eligibility component, however. The current Telefilm Canada listing requires applicants to be Canadian-controlled corporations with their headquarters and activities in Canada, represented by an eligible Canadian citizen or permanent resident. Applicants must also operate as audiovisual production companies, have produced at least one feature film, and have a feature-length project in development suitable for international co-production.
SOURCE: Telefilm Canada — Producers Without Borders / Berlinale Co-Production Market
Johnny Torres
Editor / HODB Hot ON Da Block™
Building People. Building Brands. Building Opportunities.
The Voice of the Culture.