Introduction to the Asian Contents & Film Market
The Asian Contents & Film Market (ACFM) has achieved a record turnout, celebrating its 20th anniversary with the largest edition to date. According to ACFM director Ellen Yd Kim, the pre-registration numbers were higher than the previous year, and the first day of on-site registration matched the total number of visitors from the previous year.
The Market Atmosphere
The market, which takes place in Busan, South Korea, from September 20 to 23, in parallel to the Busan International Film Festival, has a lively atmosphere with overcrowded meeting areas and many active business exchanges. Major South Korean sales companies, such as Showbox, K-Movie Entertainment, and Contents Panda, have large stands, indicating a strong presence in the market.
New Programs and Initiatives
Kim highlighted the new programs at ACFM, including the A summit, which explored important topics in the Asian film industry. The summit generated significant interest, with many participants engaging in discussions about new business models and collaborations.
Challenges and Opportunities
Despite the positive atmosphere, some sellers reported a lack of buyers, possibly due to the proximity of the market to the recently completed Toronto International Film Festival. Additionally, the ongoing struggles in the Korean film industry have resulted in a reduced pipeline of upcoming film projects, affecting sales businesses. However, some companies, such as Golden Network Asia, are optimistic about the market, with plans to introduce new films, including a Jackie Chan star vehicle.
Date Shift
This year, ACFM takes place two weeks earlier than usual due to the Korean Thanksgiving holiday, Chuseok. This date shift has resulted in a more compressed calendar, with the market feeling a little quieter than last year. Many buyers are using the market to get a first look at films they may purchase later, with some sellers reporting full schedules.
International Participation
Despite the challenges, there is a significant presence of international companies, including Japanese producers, who are increasingly interested in co-productions. The physical and cultural proximity of ACFM and the Busan International Film Festival make it an attractive destination for international buyers and sellers.
Conclusion
The Asian Contents & Film Market has achieved a record turnout, with a lively atmosphere and many business opportunities. While there are challenges, including a reduced pipeline of upcoming film projects and a lack of buyers, many companies are optimistic about the market. With its unique position in the Asian film industry, ACFM is an essential destination for buyers, sellers, and producers looking to connect and do business.
