12.55 - 1.05 PM Break

FILM TOURISM & FILMING DESTINATIONS

1.05 - 1.50 PM Panel Discussion 4
The Cinematic Passport: How Film Transforms Nations into Desirable Destinations

The power of storytelling is undeniable, capable of shaping perceptions, igniting emotions, and even influencing tangible actions. In the realm of film, this influence extends beyond mere entertainment, often subtly weaving narratives that transform geographical locations into compelling characters themselves. Research increasingly suggests that when audiences connect with a film where a country is vividly portrayed, they are significantly more likely to harbor a desire to visit that nation. From the romanticized streets of Paris in "Emily in Paris" to the sun-drenched shores of Sicily in "The White Lotus," the epic landscapes of Arrakis in "Dune," and even the stark redemption offered in the fictional "Shawshank" (though not a country, it highlights the power of place), cinema acts as a powerful, albeit often unintentional, tourism ambassador. This panel will explore the role of film commissions in transforming countries or regions into economic hubs fueled by film tourism and production. (Excerpt created by Judi Nwokedi)
Speakers:

Judi Nwokedi, Free Women Films Chairperson, Gauteng Tourism Authority Chairperson, South Africa
Marjorie Galas, Senior Director, Members & Education at Association of Film Commissioners International (AFCI), USA
Zaid Shaker, Acting Executive Director, Film AlUla, Saudi Arabia
Adama Kokonbo, Film Commissioner, Côte d'Ivoire

Nikola Joetze, Project Manager, Berlinale Talents, Germany

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Moderator:  Zachary Ntim, International Film Editor, Deadline, UK + Ghana | TBC

1.50 - 1.55 PM Break

SPOTLIGHT ON ACTORS - DIAMOND IN THE ROUGH
1.55 - 2.50 PM Panel Discussion 5
Light, Camera, Resilience & Self Belief as Familiar Companions

The legacy of Paul Robeson, a powerhouse of talent and a staunch advocate for social justice, continues to inspire. This panel discussion, aptly titled "Spotlight on Actors - Diamond in the Rough," will explore the landscape of acting, focusing particularly on the challenges and opportunities faced by emerging and marginalized talent. this conversation will serve as a powerful reminder of Robeson's commitment to uplifting voices often overlooked and providing platforms for untold stories.Speakers:

Speakers:​

Daniel “Dee” Klare, Actor, Germany + Nigeria
Fredi Nwaka, Actor, Director, Producer, VP Content, GenB, UK + Nigeria
Yassine Azzouz, Actor, Producer, France + Algeria + Tunisia
Frédéric Chau, Actor, Producer, France + China + Vietnam(TBD)

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Moderator: Stewart Clarke, Senior Vice President, Content, International, Deadline, UK | TBC

2.50 - 2.55 PM - Break

MULTI-PLATFORM & TRANSMEDIA STORYTELLING
2.55 - 3.40 PM Panel Discussion 6
Documentaries for Impact: Creating Conversations and Shaping Public Discourse by Taking Advantage of the Plethora of Distribution Channels

For years, the documentary has reigned supreme as a powerful vehicle for truth, insight, and advocacy. In a world saturated with content and fragmented attention spans, simply filming and releasing a compelling piece isn't always enough. Transmedia storytelling becomes a dynamic approach that's reshaping the landscape of documentary filmmaking and amplifying its impact in unprecedented ways. Transmedia storytelling, at its core, involves crafting a narrative that unfolds across multiple platforms and formats, creating a cohesive and immersive experience for the audience.
Speakers:

​Fred Kuwornu, Director, Producer, Founder, Do The Right Films, USA + Ghana + Italy
Deborah Riley Draper, Award Winning Documentary Filmmaker, “Versailles ’73": “American Runway Revolution”, “Black Wall Street”, and “Say It Loud”, Founder, Coffee Bluff Pictures Productions, USA
Yodit Tadesse, Documentary Filmmaker, TV Show Director, Ethiopia

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Moderator: Mitchell Harper, Curator, Producer, Arts Manager and consultant, Founder Ctr Alt Del, South Africa