Berlin

A strong year: 6,900participants from 90 countries at the EuropeanFilm Market

A strong EuropeanFilm Market 2011 (EFM) presented itself at the Martin- Gropius-Bau andthe Marriott Hotel during the 61st Berlin International FilmFestival. From February 10 - 18, more than 6,900 industry participants from 90countries visited the international market for film and audiovisual contentthat takes place alongside the Berlinale. The participants included 1,532international buyers and 400 exhibitors from around the world; 741 filmscomprised the 1,046 market screenings that were shown in 38 EFM screening facilities, amongthem 570 market premieres.

"We are very pleased withthis year's Market," said Beki Probst, Director of the EFM. "Buyers, sales agents,exhibitors and participants are reporting good business, exciting new projectsand a very lively Market atmosphere overall."

The 3D boom, visible at theFestival and in the industry generally, was also reflected at the EFM 2011. With 30 films, thenumber of 3D films nearly tripled from the previous year. The industry'sunwaning interest in the development of the 3D sector could also be seen at theEFM Industry Debates, whichaddressed this topic along with current developments in the area ofinternational film financing and the new role of the sales agent. With 600participants in total, the three Debates were very well attended.

The EFM initiatives "Meet theDocs" in cooperation with the European Documentary Network, "German Cinema -LOLA@Berlinale" in cooperation with the German Film Academy and German Films,as well as the 47 films "Straight from Sundance" were also very popular duringthe European Film Market.