11.10 - 11.15 AM Break

SPOTLIGHT ON AFRO-GERMAN FILMMAKERS

12.00 - 12.40 PM Panel discussion 9
Nothing to do with Identity Politics, but rather True Representation

Afro-German filmmakers are not a monolithic group. Their work encompasses a wide range of genres, from documentaries and social commentaries to dramas and comedies. What unites them is their commitment to exploring the lived experiences of Afro-Germans. The rise of Afro-German filmmakers is a crucial development in the evolution of German cinema.

Speakers: 

Denise M’Baye, Actress, Social Activist, Germany + Senegal, TBD
Daniel “Dee” Klare, Actor, Germany + Nigeria
Jessica Sy, Actress, Germany + Jamaica
Sophya Kallista Frohberg, Producer and Curator, Germany + Haiti

Yared Dibaba, TV Host, Actor, Filmmaker, Germany

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Moderator: Carmen Thompson, Programming & Distribution, We Are Parable | Sheffield DocFest, Scotland

12.00 - 12.05 PM Break

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DISTRIBUTION

12.05 - 1.45 PM - Panel Discussion 10
The Film Distribution Conundrum: Waiting for Godot, the Elusive Film Distributor or Sales Agent

The hunt for a distributor or sales agent is a crucial step for any filmmaker, regardless of genre or budget. These professionals act as the vital bridge between your finished film and its audience. They leverage their established relationships with exhibitors, streaming platforms, and international buyers to secure screenings, licensing deals, and ultimately, generate revenue. They are the gatekeepers, the navigators, the crucial partners you need to break through the noise. So why is finding one so difficult?

Speakers:

​​Pape Boye, CEO, Black MicMac, France + Senegal
Francis Nebot, Founder, IFind Pictures, FranceWendy Bernfield, Founder, Right Stuffs, The Netherland
Richard Lorber, Chairman & CEO, Kino Lorber Media Group, USA (TBC)

 

Moderator: Danica Robinson-Liles, Co-Founder & COO, West End Studios, Jamaica

12.45 - 12.55 PM Break

AFRICAN CINEMA AT A GLANCE
12.55 - 1.40 PM Panel Discussion 11
Spotlight on Côte d'Ivoire, the leading TV & Film Market in Francophone Africa

For years, Nigeria has dominated the African entertainment landscape, but a new powerhouse is emerging in West Africa:
Côte d'Ivoire. With a thriving economy, a youthful population, and a vibrant cultural scene, Côte d'Ivoire has firmly established itself as the leading TV and film market in Francophone Africa. This burgeoning industry is fueled by a combination of factors that make the country an attractive hub for production, distribution, and consumption of content. Côte d'Ivoire boasts one of the fastest-growing economies in Africa. This economic stability translates into increased disposable income for its citizens, allowing them to invest in entertainment options like cinema tickets, subscription services, and access to digital content. Furthermore, a young and tech-savvy population is readily embracing digital platforms and streaming services, creating a significant demand for local and international content.

 

Speakers:

Yolande Bogui, Film & TV Producer, Founder, Emmaus Productions, Executive Director, Association des Producteurs de Séries de Côte d'Ivoire, Côte d'Ivoire 

Adama Konkobo, Managing Director, KSM Films, Film Commissioner, Côte d’Ivoire
Alexandra Amon, Actress, Executive Producer, Filmmaker, Côte d'Ivoire

Konnie Touré, TV and Radio Host, Côte d'IvoireAlex Ogou, Actor, Executive Producer, Filmmaker, Côte d'Ivoire
Alexandra Amon, Actress, Producer, Côte d'Ivoire

Moderator: Simone McIntyre, Actress, Producer, Jamaica + UK ​​

1.40 - 1.45 PM Break 

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A LA CROISEE DU HIP HOP ET DU CINEMA - VOLUME 3

1.45 - 2.30 PM La table ronde sydney duteil
Convergence de Style, Genre et Culture

Le paysage culturel français est une tapisserie vibrante, tissée de fils d'histoire, d'immigration et d'expression artistique. Et à l'intersection fascinante de ces fils se trouve une puissante force créatrice : la synthèse du hip-hop, de l'identité afrofrançaise et du cinéma. Cette convergence n'est pas seulement un emprunt stylistique ; c'est un dialogue puissant, une plateforme pour explorer des récits complexes et une contribution essentielle à l'évolution de l'histoire de la France moderne.
Intervenants :​

Jean-Claude Barny, Directeur de Casting pour “La Haine” de Matthieu Kassovitz, Realisateur de “Fanon” et Nèg Marrons”, France + Guadeloupe
Souleymane Dicko “Solo”, Rappeur, Artistic Directeur Artistique de “La Haine” by Matthieu Kassovitz, Breakdancer, France + Mali
Intervenant 3 | AC

 

Modérateur : Essimi Mévégué, Critique de Film Assermenté, Co-fondateur, Ciné Club Afro, France + Cameroon

2.30 - 2.35 PM Break 

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DISTRIBUTION, MARKETING & DESIGN

2.35 - 3.15 PM Panel Discussion 12
Beyond the Screen: How Design Shapes Film Distribution and Marketing

The power of film lies in its ability to transport us, to provoke thought, and to connect us to stories larger than ourselves. But even the most brilliantly crafted film is destined to languish in obscurity without a strategic and visually compelling distribution and marketing campaign. And at the heart of that campaign lies design, an often-underappreciated force that can make or break a film's success. From the sleekness of a theatrical poster to the user-friendliness of a streaming platform interface, design permeates every aspect of how a film reaches its audience. It's more than just aesthetics; it's a critical component of storytelling, communication, and ultimately, ticket sales. 

Speakers:

Serge Noukoué, Founder, Nollywood Week, Owner, Okada Media (Distribution), France + Benin
Kenny Gravillis, Award Winning Graphic Designer (Highest 2 Lowest, Captain America: Brave New World, Government Cheese, G20, Sinners, The Challengers, The Boys, Nickel Boys, Creed 3...), Founder, Gravillis Inc., USA + UK
Fredi Nwaka, Actor, Director, Producer, VP Content, GenB, UK + Nigeria
Ladun Awobokun, Chief Content Officer, Film One Entertainment, Nigeria

Moderator: Papayaw Annan Addo-Boateng, Filmmaker, Producer, Actor, Founder, MiPrime Entertainment, Ghana

3.15 - 3.20 PM Break

GLOBAL SOUTH CO-PRODUCTION MODELS

3.20 - 4.05 PM Panel Discussion 13
Bridging Oceans: Leveraging Shared Historical Narratives in Latin America & Africa

While filmmaking offers immense potential for bridging the gap between Africa and Latin America, there are also challenges to overcome. Funding limitations, distribution barriers, and language differences can hinder the production and dissemination of films across continents. However, there are also exciting opportunities for collaboration and exchange. Film festivals, co-production agreements, and online platforms are providing avenues for filmmakers from both regions to connect, share their work, and reach wider audiences. Furthermore, the increasing availability of affordable filmmaking technology is empowering independent filmmakers to tell their stories.

Speakers:

​Lyara Oliveira, President, The City of São Paulo Film and Audiovisual Company Brazil, Brazil
Robenson Lauvince, Director “July 7”, Founder, Clearshot Entertainment, Haiti + USA
Joel Karekezi, Film Director, Screenwriter, Silver Bear Winner, Rwanda
Inya Lawal, President, WIFT Africa Founder, Africa Creative Market, Ascend Studios, Nigeria

 

Moderator: Mitchell Harper, Curator, Producer, Arts Manager and Consultant, Founder, Contr Alt Del, South Africa

4.05 - 4.10 PM Break

CASTING DIRECTORS

4.10 - 5.00  Panel discussion 14
Beyond the Stars: How Casting Directors are Reshaping Narratives in Film

The role of the casting director extends beyond finding the 'right' actor; it includes advocating for authentic representation within the narrative itself. This often involves working closely with writers and directors to ensure that characters are not simply token representatives, but are fully fleshed out individuals with their own unique motivations, experiences, and voices. While established actors are crucial to the success of many films, casting directors also play a vital role in discovering and nurturing new talent. This dedication to discovering new faces not only revitalizes the industry but also provides opportunities for actors from marginalized communities. These fresh perspectives can breathe new life into familiar narratives and introduce audiences to captivating performances.
Speakers:​

Nancy Bishop, Emmy Award Winning Casting Director, UK + Czech Republic
Luci Lenox, Casting Director & Founder of The Actors Home, Ireland + Spain
Karimah El Giamal, Casting Director, Member of the board, BVC (German Casting Association), Germany + Egypt
Jo Monteiro, Director, Casting Director, Writer, Portugal

Michelle Danner, Film and Stage Director, Author, World-Renowned Acting Coach, Founder of All In Films, USA
Moderator: Caprice Crawford, Founder, Crawford Talents, USA + Germany

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6.20 PM End of the Day

5.10 - 6.30 Meet the Global African & Afro Film Diaspora @ AfroCannes Cocktail Reception hosted by Côte
d'Ivoire

Special Focus on Côte d'Ivoire
Spotlight on Afro-Germans
Afro-Brazilian Highlights

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7.30 PM Special Screening “77: The Festac Conspiracy”

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