Editor

AFM claims a 5% gain in total attendance.

The 2004 American Film Market achieved sharp gains in attendees this year with an increase in total attendance of 5%, it was announced today by Jonathan Wolf, Executive Vice President, AFMA, and Managing Director of the AFM. In addition, Mr. Wolf reported that total buyers are up 10% from last year. The AFM, which opened Wednesday, February 25, concludes tomorrow, March 3.

Total attendance is 7,212, up 5% from 6,834 in 2003. The final tally of buyers is 1,434 compared to 1,309 last year, a 10% increase, with 642 buying companies registered compared to 598 in 2003.

Exhibitors rose to 3,672, an increase of 7% from 3,419 last year (this figure includes others badged by their offices, producers, talent, and lawyers). A record 306 film and television companies are exhibiting at the AFM this year, including 101 first timers -- an all time high.

Industry badges are up 19%, totaling 1,323 versus 1,114 in 2003, and all others (complimentary guest badges and press) number 783, down from last year’s 992.

A number of countries showed large increases in buyers, including Hungary (up 160%), Russia (up 56%), Hong Kong (up 45%) and Australia (up 31%). Brazil also showed a significant increase in buyers (up 32%), and despite the downturn in Latin America, figures for the region remained flat. This year’s market also marked considerable increases from Eastern European countries (up 23%).