French cinema and TV series: A growing global influence
Unifrance Rendez-Vous: A new chapter in Le Havre
The French entertainment industry is experiencing a renaissance, with production booming across all major genres. This year, the 30th edition of the Unifrance Rendez-Vous market is making its debut in Le Havre, drawing international buyers from around the globe.
Last year, the event saw participation from 200 international buyers representing 40 countries, alongside 58 French sales companies. This year, organizers anticipate similar attendance, underscoring the event’s significance in the global market.
Insights from industry leaders
Unifrance’s president and executive director shared their perspectives on the latest trends and the pivotal role of the Rendez-Vous in promoting French programming. They highlighted the growing international appeal of French content, from high-end dramas to animation and documentaries.
The resilience of French productions
Despite a pullback from original productions by international streamers, French productions continue to thrive. The president noted, “French production has experienced steady growth over the last years, especially in fiction. Animation has always been strong, and this will continue. French animation was even present at the opening ceremony of the Paris Olympic Games with the Minions! Documentaries also attract buyers worldwide and are a significant part of the programs showcased during the Rendez-Vous.”
The European Union’s Audiovisual Media Services Directive, which mandates a 30% quota of European content for streamers in member states, is expected to further boost demand for French productions.
Highlights of this year’s market
This year’s market features an exciting lineup of shows, reflecting the enduring allure of television for filmmakers and actors and its potential for high-end content. Notable highlights include:
- Zorro, starring Jean Dujardin, from France Télévisions
- Ça, c’est Paris, a story about a theater director reviving his once-famous cabaret, from Federation Studios
- Tom & Lola, a cop show from Mediawan
- The Eclipse, a mystery drama from About Premium Content
- The Legends of Paris: a Tale of the 19th Century Artistic Scene, an animated documentary series from ARTE Distribution
A unified approach to promotion
Unifrance has merged its TV and cinema associations to offer comprehensive promotion for its members. This unified approach allows for a 360-degree promotion, catering to the needs of French talents and international distributors and producers.
Gala screenings and social media engagement
The promotional efforts at the Rendez-Vous include gala screenings with the presence of directors, scriptwriters, and cast members. For instance, Ça, c’est Paris will be the Gala Screening, and Zorro will be presented at the closing night. These events, coupled with active social media engagement, ensure that the programs gain visibility and traction.
Expanding horizons
The Rendez-Vous is instrumental in helping French content makers find new buyers and markets. The president shared, “Last year was my first participation in the Rendez-Vous. I observed the great opportunity the event offers to all attendees. Spending four days in a focused environment with buyers who are interested in French programs brings new contacts and opportunities.”
Adapting to new challenges
The market is expanding its scope despite recent challenges. The executive director noted, “For the Rendez-Vous Unifrance Le Havre, we invite buyers from all over the world. We are dealing with new post-epidemic questions, such as travel restrictions for ecological reasons. Being closer to Paris and easily accessible by train influenced our decision to move from Biarritz to Le Havre.”
A global gathering
The Rendez-Vous attracts buyers from all major pay and free TV broadcasters in Europe. This year, new companies from Latin America and Asia are also attending, reflecting the growing global interest in French content.
A new venue, new opportunities
This year’s event, supported by the city of Le Havre and the region of Normandy, offers a new venue with different locations for each evening. This change is expected to bring new opportunities for various French programs.
With around 40 territories represented and approximately 200 buyers, the event promises to be a significant platform for showcasing French productions. The executive director expressed confidence in the event’s success, stating, “With over 1,000 programs screened, we are confident that buyers will cherish their experience.”
The Unifrance Rendez-Vous continues to be a vital event for the French entertainment industry, fostering international collaborations and expanding the global reach of French cinema and TV series.