EFM INDUSTRY SESSIONS | ZONE OF INTEREST: DISTRIBUTION TRENDS FOR ONLINE RELEASES

When one thinks about the European independent film sector, the first idea that comes to mind is probably cultural diversity: a vast variety of films, players of all sizes, a whole host of channels (from cinemas to VoD), and of course very diverse markets. Then online, the market is not yet evenly developed and online and on-demand releasing have so far not often offered the same reliable, transparent and sustainable revenues as cinemas or DVDs in the past. In less developed markets, independent VOD services are not always firmly established, and audience consumption patterns are not evenly developed and viable. To open the discussion even further, the session will hear from four other markets: Italy, Belgium, Czech Republic and Estonia. Together the speakers will deepen the information already gathered and look at the various opportunities and challenges encountered on their respective markets, analyse the different situations and how they are evolving, always with the scope of bringing independent films online, and generate revenues. The post-pandemic economy and consumption patterns are still challenging for independent films and finding a profitable balance, especially online, is not an easy win. This panel considers how to build effective release strategies in tune with new audience demand in a constantly evolving online market.

Italian Participant: Anastasia Plazzotta – CEO, Wanted Cinema