Rome’s MIA Market Celebrates 10th Edition with Stellar Line-Up

A Decade of Innovation

Rome’s MIA Market, dedicated to international TV series, animation, feature films, and documentaries, has kicked off its 10th vibrant edition. This year, the market boasts 60 selected projects from 90 countries, ready to captivate potential partners with their innovative narratives and compelling storytelling.

An Expanding Marketplace

Held from October 14-18, this pre-Mipcom boutique event continues to embody its innovative informal market concept. The market adapts dynamically to the ever-evolving industry landscape, offering a rich roster of panels and keynote speakers. These sessions are designed to provide a comprehensive pulse on the global industry, especially as business models shift and co-productions become increasingly vital.

Meet the Keynote Speakers

This year’s keynote speakers are a testament to the market’s authoritative status in the industry. Among them is Katherine Pope, the president of Sony Pictures Television Studios. Pope has overseen global phenomena such as The Last of Us. Additionally, Clayton Townsend, producer of Ripley, and Odessa Rae, the driving force behind the Oscar-winning document Navalny, will grace the stage with their profound insights.

Unscripted Programming Insights

Highlighting the importance of unscripted content, Ed Havard, Senior VP of Unscripted Programming at Universal International Studios, and Monica Rodman, EVP of Development at Universal Television Alternative Studio, will join a focused panel. Their discussion will center on the future of unscripted programming within the European TV production market, offering invaluable industry insights during these transformative times.

The Heart of the Market

Central Rome’s Palazzo Barberini, an exquisite venue that houses Italy’s National Ancient Art Gallery, serves as the main hub for the market. Here, sales companies have set up booths, creating a buzzing atmosphere of creativity and collaboration.

A Surge in Submissions

Gaia Tridente, who heads MIA, expressed amazement at the surge in project submissions this year. The market received 600 submissions for its co-productions call, a notable increase from the approximately 500 received last year. Tridente observed, “Producers are working tirelessly on developing new stories as streamers diversify their investments, and producers strive to retain more rights for their shows.” This landscape, she added, paves the way for new forms of co-productions, which provide a solid foundation for securing larger budgets.

TV Projects to Watch

Among the standout TV projects unveiled at MIA is the U.S.-Japan co-production The Aosawa Murders. Based on Riku Onda’s book, this gripping narrative recounts the 1973 murder of 17 people who consumed poisoned sake and soft drinks sent as a gift to the wealthy Aosawa family. The show is produced by Kadokawa Corporation and Upgrade Productions, LA.

Feature Films Seeking Partners

Feature films also take center stage at MIA, seeking new horizons with potential partners. Titles like Fish, a fantasy set in Venice and directed by Carlo S. Hintermann, and The Place of Eternal Summer, a coming-of-age drama set in Sicily and the debut directorial effort of noted screenwriter Maddalena Ravagli, are among those shining brightly this year.

Animation at its Finest

The animation sector at MIA is rich and diverse. Notably, Gainsbourg: Rue De Verneuil, produced by France’s Logical Pictures and The Jokers Lab, stands out. This film delves into the life of French singer-songwriter Serge Gainsbourg, promising a captivating exploration of his legacy.

Embracing New Technology

A new addition to the market this year is the MIA XR showcase, featuring 13 interactive and VR works, including six world premieres. This novel showcase underscores MIA’s commitment to embracing cutting-edge technology and pushing the boundaries of traditional media consumption.

Reflecting on a Decade

As the MIA Market celebrates a decade of growth and innovation, it remains a pivotal event in the global audiovisual landscape. The market not only highlights emerging trends and projects but also fosters meaningful partnerships and collaborations that drive the industry forward.

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