AFCI Week 2024: A global gathering for the future of film and TV
A new era for AFCI Week
As the world of film, TV, and commercials continues to evolve beyond the traditional boundaries of Hollywood, the Association of Film Commissioners International (AFCI) is expanding its horizons. In 2024, AFCI Week will open its doors wider than ever before, inviting a diverse array of industry executives, producers, location managers, and government decision-makers to join the conversation.
“This year’s AFCI Week promises to break all records for global attendance and geographical diversity,” says Jaclyn Philpott, AFCI’s executive director. By welcoming non-members, she hopes to foster a more inclusive environment that brings the industry together. The turnout, she adds, “underscores a strong commitment to face-to-face engagement and collaboration.”
A hub for global connections
Held from August 25-28 at UCLA’s Meyer & Renee Luskin Conference Center, the event will feature over 142 film commissions from around the world. The goal is to enhance connections between commissioners and key players in content production.
“AFCI Week offers a unique platform to connect, collaborate, and innovate for the future at this crucial time,” says Marnie Gee, British Columbia film commissioner and director of production services.
Philpott highlights that the event’s interconnected programming will focus on workforce development, infrastructure building, and adapting to recent disruptions, whether driven by the pandemic, industry strikes, or new technologies. One of the new additions is the Film Industry Challenge, an interactive workshop that will gather data from the audience on topics like AI software, workforce development, and community and government collaboration.
Celebrating leaders and innovators
This year marks the inaugural collaboration on the Variety 10: Leaders and Innovators in Physical Production, which honors high achievers in television and film. Additionally, more than 60 location managers will attend a reception for film commissioners and location managers across the entertainment industry.
To assess the global landscape, the Beyond Hollywood panel will seek insights from senior studio executives about the challenges and benefits of worldwide production infrastructure. Panelists include MaryAnn Hughes from Walt Disney, Jay Roewe from HBO/MAX/WBD, and Peter Oillataguerre from Amazon MGM Studios.
Embracing unscripted and independent perspectives
The Rise of Unscripted panel will encourage film commissions to consider unscripted and reality productions. Panelists include Lefteris Eleftheriou from the Cyprus Film Commission and Jaimie Falconer from RTR Media Canada.
Meanwhile, The Independent Perspective panel will bring together commercial producers and game producers to discuss how film commissioners can collaborate to bring their visions to life. Panelists include Shayne Fiske Goldner from Annapurna, Erika Ewing from Lionsgate, and David Michael Gonzales from the Association of Independent Commercial Producers. They will explore the value independent productions bring to a territory, especially underrepresented offerings like commercials and gaming.
The impact of moviemaking
Opening keynote speaker, MPA chief Charles Rivkin, emphasizes the broader impact of creating memorable content. “My hope is to shine a spotlight on why moviemaking matters to folks in the room and to families, workforces, and businesses the world over: their ability to spur economies, create jobs, enrich cultures, enlighten, educate, and amaze audiences,” he says.
Rivkin is particularly excited about AFCI “expanding its reach and uniting the same partners and parties that the MPA works with every day.” He stresses that great work cannot happen without AFCI and its members. “AFCI is always a vital venue for collaboration in the film industry,” he says, because creators “depend on strong and effective film commissions in markets around the world.”
A personal reflection for enthusiasts
For cinema, TV series, and music enthusiasts, AFCI Week 2024 is more than just an industry event—it’s a celebration of the collaborative spirit that drives the entertainment world. Whether you’re a fan of blockbuster films, indie productions, or the latest TV series, the discussions and innovations emerging from this event will shape the content you love.
Imagine the possibilities as industry leaders from around the globe come together to share their insights and experiences. The panels on unscripted productions and independent perspectives promise to bring fresh ideas to the table, potentially leading to new and exciting content for audiences everywhere.
For those who appreciate the behind-the-scenes efforts that go into creating their favorite movies and shows, AFCI Week offers a glimpse into the future of entertainment. It’s a reminder that the magic of cinema and television is a global endeavor, fueled by collaboration, innovation, and a shared passion for storytelling.
Explore more
For more information on the movies and series discussed, check out the trailers and information pages:
For music enthusiasts, explore the latest albums and songs on Spotify:
AFCI Week 2024 is set to be a landmark event, bringing together the best minds in the industry to shape the future of film and television. Whether you’re an industry professional or a passionate fan, there’s something for everyone to look forward to.