The Slate

The American Film Market (AFM) attracts over 8,000 film industry professionals from more than 70 countries annually. This year’s AFM kicks off Wednesday, November 6th in Santa Monica, California. The AFM is a marketplace that brings together all varieties of people involved in the film industry. Unlike a film festival, it’s a place where production and distribution deals are closed. More film companies gather at the AFM than any other event in the world. Participants will have access to a world class city for business and entertainment, all while connecting globally in order to expand their local market. Nearly $1 billion in deals are made each year on both completed and in-progress movies.

2013 attendees will have access to 2,000 new films and projects, 1,000-plus production companies and 400 distributors. The 8,000 people expected to attend will be offered more information sessions and networking opportunities at this year’s market than ever before. Jonathan Wolf, managing director of the AFM says networking is key for this type of industry. The Producers Forum will be new this year, focusing on experienced producers and furthering their opportunities to learn from others. In addition, five conference series will be held with topics on finance, marketing, production, pitch and distribution. While the AFM is open only to people who purchase attendee packages, anyone in the film industry is welcome to attend. Varieties of packages and pricings are available. In the past, George Clooney, Stephen Sommers and Peter Jackson were all in attendance. This year, HFI’s own Michael Attardi will be present at the event. For more information on attending and pricing packages, visit AFM’s website.