Happy Tuesday, Creative Army!

Today officially kicks off the 2024 American Film Market!

Every November, the entire global film industry converges for AFM, the premier film acquisition, development, and networking event where more than $1 Billion in distribution and film financing deals are closed each year on completed films and those in every stage of development. More business-oriented than any other motion picture event, thousands of professionals from all corners of our industry come together at AFM to develop, showcase, discover, finance, and license 1000s of independent films and projects destined for the world’s audiences.

This year will be particularly memorable because AFM has moved to a new city- Las Vegas!

The American Film Market is a great place to find partners and pitch your projects and films – if you have a plan. Use these steps to increase your chances of success...

PROLOGUE

If you have a project or script, the most effective use of your time and money is to purchase a Four Day Plus or Four-Day badge which allows access to all offices, booths and most screenings beginning on Wednesday (Day 2). If you are a producer with a finished film, purchase a Platinum or Executive Badge so you can start on day one.

STEP 1: Homework: Create a List of Target Companies

Over 400 production / distribution companies have offices at the AFM but not all are right for your film. Focus your time and effort on the companies that are best suited for your project.

Go to The Film Catalogue where companies list their projects, profiles, and staff contact information. As well as the full screening schedule. Then do further research on the web. Find the companies that are the best candidates for your project and goals.

Once you have created a target list, if there are less than 10, you’re being too picky. [“No distributor is right for MY film!”] If there are 100 or more, your homework grade is “incomplete.” Keep working. A good target list for most projects is 30 – 40 companies.

STEP 2: More Homework: Create a List of Target Executives

For each of your target companies, identify the key executives, especially those in charge of acquisitions, development, and production. Look for their names in the trades and on company websites. If you can’t find the right names, call the company’s main office and ask.

Finding out who’s who is critical. You will never get anywhere by walking into an office unprepared and saying: “Hi, who is your head of acquisitions? I’d like to meet with him… or her.”

STEP 3: Start Scheduling Meetings

Most companies begin setting their meeting schedule three or four weeks before the market. The best way to contact them is to send a short, personalized email. After a few days, follow up by phone.

Want to see more steps? Click here!

Saturday's Expert Panel-

On Saturday, November 9th, our fearless leader, Richard "RB" Botto will be participating in an outstanding expert panel from 5:00 pm- 6:00 pm on the Main Stage.

Maximizing Impact: Crafting Powerful Films with Limited Budgets

The speakers include:

• Richard "RB" Botto, CEO of Stage 32
• Paul Bales, Partner, The Asylum
• Max Woertendyke, Producer, Noble Gas Media,
• Jeff Deverett, President & CEO, Deverett Media Group
• Efuru Flowers, Head of Flourishing Films

Be sure to mark it on your AFM schedules and come on out!

RB and I look forward to seeing you at the market and conference!

Let's hear your thoughts in the comments below!

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