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Yahoo
an hour ago
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Karlovy Vary Film Festival Set To Revamp Industry Days Section With Bigger Focus On Series & Central European Co-Pros
The Karlovy Vary International Film Festival has given its Industry Days program a revamp, adding an extra day to the section while also extending its remit to the small screen and series development. The extended program, which takes place across four days (July 6-9) and is supported by a new partnership with entertainment outfit and broadcaster Central European Media Enterprises, will introduce a Pop-Up Series Incubator featuring five original European series. The aim is to establish Karlovy Vary as a hub for co-productions and creative collaborations across diverse narrative forms. More from Deadline Kelsey Grammer Boards 'Hell Ride'; Karlovy Vary Names Chair; Tarf Enters Theatrical Distribution; ITV Soap Boss Retiring - Global Briefs Jiří Bartoška Dies: Czech Actor And Karlovy Vary Film Festival President Was 78 Czech Oscar Entry 'Waves' Secures French Distribution With ARP Sélection 'We believe that we have a unique opportunity to strengthen our position as the leading industry event dedicated to Central Europe, a region that also includes creative powerhouses like Poland, Germany or Austria, and deserves focused international attention,' said KVIFF Executive Director Kryštof Mucha in a statement. 'Our aim is to serve as a central hub for producers, filmmakers, broadcasters and platforms from Central Europe, alongside global industry professionals who wish to engage closely with this vibrant region. Recognizing the growing crossover of storytelling across various mediums, our expanded Industry Days now have the capacity and vision to fully embrace this revolution.' Central Europe Takes Central Stage This year, there will be a new format dedicated to showcasing film projects in the making – the previous Works in Progress pitches will be replaced by a Central Eastern Europe-focused KVIFF Central Stage showcase, a new initiative created by the KVIFF Film Industry Office in cooperation with selected national film institutes of eight CEE nations (Austria, Czechia, Germany, Hungary, Poland, Slovakia, Slovenia and Ukraine). Thirteen fiction films by established filmmakers from these countries that are in late stages of development, in production or post production, will feature in this initiative, which takes place on July 8 on the Industry Main Stage in the KVIFF Industry Hug in Kaiserbad. Instead of traditional pitches, projects will be introduced through interactive talks, with a focus on filmmakers and the co-production landscape in each of the participating countries. The projects, which will be announced later this month, will be eligible for exclusive post-production benefits thanks to a partnership with leading studios UPP and Soundsquare. Projects qualifying for the Czech Audiovisual Fund's 35% incentive for digital production will receive an additional 15% direct discount from UPP and Soundsquare for comprehensive audio-visual post-production services. The most promising films in development, which will be selected by an international jury, will also be eligible for the €20,000 Eurimages Co-Production Development Award. 'We chose this new format because it addresses a real gap in the Central European film landscape,' said Hugo Rosák, Head of the KVIFF Industry Office. 'There is significant support for emerging filmmakers across Eastern Europe, but mid-career filmmakers often lack the necessary spotlight and resources to secure financing, even though their projects are equally compelling.' Small Screen, Big Ambitions This year, the industry program will also look to embrace small-screen content through a new partnership with Central European Media Enterprises, a content creator and broadcaster that works in Central and Easter Europe in territories such as Bulgaria, Croatia, Czech Republic, Romania, Moldova, Slovakia and Slovenia. It also operates VoD platform Oneplay (formerly Voyo). The aim is to transform KVIFF into a comprehensive hub for television and streaming series development with a program consisting of showcases, panels, workshops and talks by major small-screen players and experts. That event will take place on July 8 and 9. Pop Up Series Incubator A vital part of the new small-screen focus is the Pop Up Series Incubator showcase, which takes place on July 8. It's a new series development program designed to support European producers and scriptwriters by boosting their projects through hands-on development, expert mentorship and financial support. Presented and organized by Tatino Films, co-financed by the European Union and supported and hosted by La Région Grand Est, the city of Reims and KVIFF, the eight-month-long program comes together in Karlovy Vary with a pitching session where the creative teams will present their series concepts to industry professionals and decision makers, followed by curated match-making sessions with professionals that look to finance or produce series. The 5 selected projects that will be showcased in Karlovy Vary are: (Romania) Producer: Anda Ionescu, Tangaj Production Writer: Cristina Grosan Based on a true story of The Angel Makers of Nagyrév Accompanied by screenwriters Leana Jalukse and Loïc Barrère (France) Producer: Eric Dupont, Incognito Films Based on La Vita Erotica Dei Superuomini, acclaimed Italian novel by Marco Mancassola Accompanied by screenwriters Nadya Todorova, and Ruddy-Williams Kabuiku (France) Producer: Candice Zaccagnino, Eliane Antoinette Writer: David Roux on La Nuit des Béguines, acclaimed French novel by Aline Kiner Accompanied by screenwriter Yaelle Kayam (Greece) Producer: Fenia Cossovitsa, BLONDE S.A. Writer: Elina Psykou Based on Alfatride (O iatrodikastis), a Greek novel by Vassilis Vassilikos Accompanied by screenwriter Lemba de Miranda (Lithuania) Producer: Dagnė Vildžiūnaitė, Just a moment Writer: Birutė Kapustinskaitė Based on a play by Lithuanian writer Birutė Kapustinskaitė Accompanied by screenwriters Fabrizio Muscia and Ruxandra Ghitescu Works In Development – Feature Launch & Focus Queer to Compete For Eurimages Co-Production Development Award One of the KVIFF Eastern Promises staples, the Midpoint Institute's Works In Development international script development program will showcase nine feature-length projects that are currently in development and five additional projects developed within Midpoint – Focus Queer, a program supporting filmmakers exploring queer narratives, highlighting the importance of diversity and inclusion in contemporary storytelling. The projects, now looking for co-production partners, will compete for the traditional €10,000 Midpoint and KVIFF Development Award, as well as the €20,000 Eurimages Co-Production Development Award. Presentations take place on July 7. KVIFF Talents Now in its third edition, KVIFF Talents is a year-long program which supports Czech and Slovak filmmakers and innovative audiovisual genres. The Creative Pool focuses on identifying innovative audiovisual works of any genre or format – from short films to series to podcasts or game concepts. Feature Pool is dedicated to development of original auteur-driven feature-length fiction films. Six projects have been selected – three series and three features – which will receive development funding, mentorship from industry experts and the opportunity to present projects to potential producers, partners and investors on July 7. The projects are: (Czech Republic) Feature debut combining live action and stop-motion animation Animator & Director: Daria Kashcheeva Producer: Lukáš Kokeš, Nutprodukce (Czech Republic, Slovakia) Feature film – thriller Director: Tomáš Klein Screenwriter: Barbora Námerová Producer: Tomáš Michálek, Master Film (Czech Republic) Feature debut based on the novel by Petr Šesták Writer & Director: Greta Stocklassa Producer: Marek Novák, Xova Films (Czech Republic) Animated series for both children and adults Animator & Director: Phillip Kastner Producer: Tereza Havlová (Czech Republic) Anime series Writer & Director: Dužan Duong Producers: AZN kru and Nutprodukce (Czech Republic) Live-action musical series Writer & Director: Kateřina Letáková Producer: Daniel Bleha, Filmkolektiv Proven Industry Events Anchor Expanded Program In addition to these new showcases, KVIFF Industry Days will continue to offer its traditional mix of events, such as the Czech Film Industry Forum and International Industry Insights Forum, a series of swift sessions that provide a comprehensive overview of the current state of the global and local markets. The program includes more in-depth workshops, panels and talks on the Workshop Stage, as well as industry networking and meeting opportunities. The schedule will be published later this month. Best of Deadline Sundance Film Festival U.S. Dramatic Grand Jury Prize Winners Through The Years Deadline Studio At Sundance Film Festival Photo Gallery: Dylan O'Brien, Ayo Edebiri, Jennifer Lopez, Lily Gladstone, Benedict Cumberbatch & More TIFF People's Choice Award Winners Through The Years: Photo Gallery

Egypt Today
06-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Egypt Today
Acclaimed director Rashid Masharawi collaborates for the first time with Baho Bakhash
Producer Baho Bakhash and esteemed Palestinian director Rashid Masharawi have met today at the 15th Malmö Arab Film Festival Industry Days, which runs until May 5th, 2025, in Sweden, in order to reach an agreement on a new Arab cinematic project bringing them together, under the title "the Natives". This announcement coincides with the 10th anniversary of the Industry Days current edition which is regarded as a celebration of collaborative creativity. Producer Bakhash stated, "It is the first project between Red Star and director Rashid Masharawi in a work that is written and directed by him. It will be a special Palestinian-Egyptian-Jordanian production reflecting the absurd consequences of the Palestinian situation in a satirical style, as well as a touch of black comedy. Full details will be announced shortly". She added, "MAFF Industry Days have become a bridge connecting filmmakers from various cultures, creating new creative opportunities and collaborative films that achieved significant global success. Thus, it is important to announce our new project with esteemed director Rashid Masharawi in the Arab cinema capital in Europe in order to proceed our artistic and cultural dialogue". Director Masharawi noted, "I was pleased with the announcement of this project through a platform for Arab cinematic exchange and collaboration in Malmö. Visions converge and ideas are embodied in new and special ways. In my opinion, 'the Natives' is a special cinematic experience. I attempt to reflect on the new and old Palestinian situations and recount events from new dimensions through a compelling cinematic presentation blending cynical humor, depth and simplicity". Masharawi added, "The primary motivation to write this story stemmed from the urgent need to consider the meaning of a person's loss of place, instead of only replacing a certain place. Indeed, it is an experience that sheds light on the diaspora of the soul, feeling and memory".


Hans India
23-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Hans India
Indian Film Festival of Los Angeles unveils expanded Industry Days and new initiative for South Asian storytellers
The Indian Film Festival of Los Angeles (IFFLA) has revealed exciting developments for its upcoming edition, including an expanded Industry Days programme and the introduction of IFFLA Connect, a brand-new initiative aimed at linking emerging South Asian film projects with top-tier industry professionals. Taking place on 8 and 9 May at the Landmark Theatres Sunset, IFFLA Industry Days will bring together rising talents and key figures from leading organisations such as Netflix, Neon, Orion Pictures, Film Independent, Temple Hill Entertainment, and more. The two-day programme is designed to foster meaningful industry engagement for South Asian filmmakers and content creators. A major highlight this year is IFFLA Connect, presented in collaboration with Cinévesture. This curated platform will feature ten South Asian-led film projects, including works from India, Nepal and Bangladesh, alongside a selection from North America. Among the anticipated titles are Radhika Apte's directorial debut Koyta, Nuhash Humayun's Moving Bangladesh, Deepak Rauniyar's Taste of My Dreams, and Ravi Kapoor's Patel. The initiative aims to support filmmakers with crucial industry access in financing, casting, and production. Festival producer Noopur Sinha commented, 'IFFLA Connect is about opening doors – ensuring these remarkable stories get the attention and support they deserve from Hollywood and beyond.' The returning Launchpad: Pitch Competition will give five finalists the chance to present their developing projects to a panel of industry experts and a live audience. One winner will receive a $10,000 development grant. Selected finalists will receive instant feedback on their pitches, allowing for valuable real-time insight from influential decision-makers. This year's Industry Days also feature two timely panel discussions: The Human Loop: Storytelling and Responsibility in the Age of AI and Global Vision: Specialty Studios and the Future of International Storytelling. These conversations will delve into the ethical implications of AI in the creative process, and explore how studios are embracing global narratives to shape the future of cinema. IFFLA will also celebrate the acclaimed stage production Life of Pi, now on its first U.S. tour, with a special panel focusing on its journey from page to stage and its broader cultural resonance. Additionally, a masterclass titled From Dhaka to Hollywood: The Genre-Bending World of Nuhash Humayun will offer an in-depth look at the Bangladeshi filmmaker's unique approach to storytelling, and how his work blends local narratives with global genre elements. Access passes for IFFLA Industry Days are currently on sale. A full Industry All-Access Pass, priced at $220, includes entry to all festival screenings and events, while an $80 Industry Days Pass offers access to panels, the masterclass, pitch competition final, and relevant screenings. IFFLA has also revealed its 2025 juries. The Feature Jury includes Indian actress Rajshri Deshpande, writer-director Priyanka Mattoo, and respected film critic Carla Renata. The Short Film Jury features filmmaker Maureen Bharoocha, actress-writer Kausar Mohammed, and Sundance programmer Sudeep Sharma. For more information and passes, visit
Yahoo
22-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
‘Life of Pi' Stage Adaptation in Spotlight as IFFLA Expands Industry Days (EXCLUSIVE)
The Indian Film Festival of Los Angeles (IFFLA) will spotlight the acclaimed stage adaptation of 'Life of Pi' during its expanded Industry Days program. The panel 'Bringing Life of Pi to Life – From Page to Stage' will explore the journey of transforming Yann Martel's beloved novel into groundbreaking theater featuring innovative puppetry and staging. Cast members Savidu Geevaratne, Sharayu Mahale and Sorab Wadia will participate in a conversation about representation, adaptation and the cultural significance of a South Asian-led narrative on Broadway and beyond. More from Variety Rotterdam Winner 'Bad Girl,' Venice Selection 'Little Jaffna' Bookend IFFLA 2025 as Fest Expands Industry Programming (EXCLUSIVE) 'Black Warrant' Team Unpacks Netflix Series Success at Cinevesture Film Festival Radhika Apte, Hansal Mehta, Nandita Das and Kani Kusruti Among Talent Behind 22 Projects at India's CinéV Film Market (EXCLUSIVE) The panel is part of IFFLA's robust two-day industry forum scheduled for May 8-9, 2025, at the Landmark Theatres Sunset in Los Angeles, which has been expanded following last year's successful inaugural edition. 'Following the tremendous success of last year's inaugural Industry Day, the expanded Industry Days offers a vital, curated space for visionary creatives from South Asia and its diasporas to connect, engage with prominent industry leaders, forge and nurture meaningful relationships, and explore an eclectic slate of projects with universal appeal,' said Christina Marouda, executive director of IFFLA. A masterclass titled 'From Dhaka to Hollywood: The Genre-Bending World of Nuhash Humayun' will highlight one of South Asia's emerging filmmaking talents. In this session, Humayun, known for his horror short 'Moshari,' will reflect on telling bold local stories that resonate globally, working across industries and geographies, and creating space for South Asian horror in global cinema. A highlight of this year's program is the launch of IFFLA Connect, a new initiative presented in collaboration with Cinévesture. The program will showcase South Asian film projects from India, Nepal, and Bangladesh under the banner CinéV-IFFLA, alongside North American projects curated by IFFLA. The South Asian lineup includes 'Friends and Fascism' from director Sindhu Sreenivasa Murthy (India/U.S.); 'Kafala' and 'Moving Bangladesh' from Nuhash Humayun (Bangladesh); actor Radhika Apte's directorial debut 'Koyta' (India), produced by Vikramaditya Motwane; 'Papita' from director Aakash Bhatia (India) with producer Richa Chadha; Leena Manimekalai's 'Saracura' (India); Afronza Hossain's 'Song of Jhinuk' (Bangladesh); and Deepak Rauniyar's 'The Taste of Dreams' (Nepal), with the latter two films being produced by Nina Lath. The North American projects feature Sachin Dheeraj's 'Mouna Tharangam (A Silent Wave)' (U.S.) and Ravi Kapoor's 'Patel' (U.S.), bringing diverse South Asian diasporic voices to the program. 'This initiative is about getting these powerful, South Asian-led projects the access and backing they need from Hollywood industry partners,' said Noopur Sinha, festival producer. The Launchpad: Pitch Competition returns with finalists Alisha Bhowmik ('Untitled Kolkata Film'), Vankshita Mishra ('The Moth & the Fly'), the team of Venk Potula, Rena Patel and Bijon Imtiaz ('Now & Then'), Kiana Rawji ('Adult Children'), and Minoti Vaishnav ('The Secret Life of Samira Sen') presenting projects to industry executives for a chance to win a $10,000 development grant. The competition will be judged by a diverse panel including TV and film producer Aanch Khaneja, Temple Hill Entertainment's Isaac Klausner, Gaumont Television's Santiago Marcos, writer Madhuri Shekar, and Inflection Point Entertainment's Chisom Ude. Industry Days will also feature panels on AI in storytelling and international cinema's future, with participation from executives representing Netflix, Neon, Orion Pictures, Film Independent, and other major players. The feature film jury includes acclaimed actor Rajshri Deshpande, author Priyanka Mattoo, and film critic Carla Renata, while the short film jury comprises director Maureen Bharoocha, actor-writer Kausar Mohammed, and Sundance programmer Sudeep Sharma. IFFLA runs May 6-10. Best of Variety New Movies Out Now in Theaters: What to See This Week What's Coming to Disney+ in April 2025 The Best Celebrity Memoirs to Read This Year: From Chelsea Handler to Anthony Hopkins
Yahoo
13-03-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Popular Air Force event canceled for 2025
DAYTON, Ohio (WDTN) — An event that draws a significant number of U.S. Air Force leaders to the Dayton area has been canceled for 2025. A spokesperson for the Air Force Life Cycle Management Center confirmed to that the 2025 Life Cycle Industry Days has been canceled. Dayton Defense, a group of area defense organizations, released a statement saying the Air Force has received guidance to focus on 'mission-critical categories of exempted travel.' 'Based on Air Force guidance on mission-critical categories of exempted travel consistent with Executive Order 14222, 'Implementing the President's 'Department of Government Efficiency' Cost Efficiency Initiative,' and in consultation with the Dayton Development Coalition and representatives of the State of Ohio, we have canceled the 9th annual Life Cycle Industry Days and Wright Dialogue with Industry this year,' said AFLCMC. In 2024, the event reported having a 'record-setting attendance.' The 2025 event was planned for July 28-29. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.