If you want to finance, sell, or distribute your film, the European Film Market (EFM) is a must-attend event.
It’s one of the top three film markets alongside Cannes and AFM, but what makes EFM stand out is the serious level of industry professionals in attendance.
- What is EFM?
- Key Industry Trends from EFM 2025
- Why You Should Attend EFM
- Final Thoughts & Next Steps
- European Film Market Questions
- Key Terms Filmmakers Need to Know
- How to Make Film Markets Work for You
- Want to Sell Your Film? Here’s Your Next Step
What is EFM?
For those unfamiliar, the European Film Market (EFM) is one of the three major film markets, alongside Cannes (Marché du Film) and AFM (American Film Market).
It happens annually in Berlin, Germany, and is considered the most exclusive of the three, attracting some of the most serious players in the industry.
Unlike AFM and Cannes, which bring in a broader mix of professionals at various levels, EFM has a higher average level of industry presence.
The meetings here are rarely just “throwaway” meetings—this is where serious deals are made.
This year, Berlin welcomed attendees with an unusually cold and snowy backdrop.
But despite the chilly weather, the market itself was buzzing with energy.
Key Industry Trends from EFM 2025
The meetings were productive, and the level of engagement from buyers and distributors was strong.
AVOD Deals Are Growing
One of the biggest trends I noticed is that AVOD (advertising-supported video on demand) deals are everywhere.
Many companies are now securing YouTube distribution rights internationally, focusing on niche genres like Westerns, horror, and other specific categories.
If you’re a filmmaker looking to distribute your film, consider targeting companies that specialize in these AVOD markets.
It’s becoming an essential part of international film sales.
International Buyers Are Picky
Buyers today are more selective than ever.
One of the biggest factors influencing their decisions? Cast.
International distributors are increasingly prioritizing films with recognizable, A-list actors. If your film features B-list or C-list talent, you’ll want to weigh the cost-benefit carefully.
For example, if an actor costs you $50,000 but doesn’t add at least $50,000 in sales value, it may not be worth the investment.
Instead, it might be better to cast a solid actor at a lower cost and put more of your budget into other production or marketing efforts.
Key Players Were Absent
A noticeable shift this year was that certain major industry players did not attend EFM. Whether this signals financial trouble for some companies or just a strategic decision to skip Berlin in favor of Cannes or AFM, remains to be seen.
If you're keeping an eye on industry trends, this absence is something worth watching.
Why You Should Attend EFM
If you’re serious about financing, distributing, and selling your film, you must experience EFM at least once in your filmmaking career. Here's why:
- High-level connections – The quality of meetings at EFM is unmatched.
- Industry pulse – Being there in person helps you understand current trends and shifts.
- Networking with distributors & sales agents – Essential for anyone looking to secure deals.
If you missed EFM this year, the next major markets to look out for are:
- Filmart (Hong Kong) – March
- Cannes (France) – May
Final Thoughts & Next Steps
EFM continues to be one of the most well-run and efficient film markets, making it a must-attend for serious filmmakers.
If you’re looking to break into the international film scene, this is the place to be.
European Film Market Questions
Attending a film market like EFM, Cannes, or AFM can be overwhelming, especially if you’re new. Below are answers to common questions filmmakers have about these markets.
What is EFM, and why is it important for filmmakers?
EFM (European Film Market) is one of the top three film markets where filmmakers, sales agents, and distributors connect to finance, sell, and distribute films.
How does EFM compare to Cannes and AFM?
EFM has more high-level decision-makers. Cannes (Marché du Film) is larger and more global, while AFM (American Film Market) attracts a broader mix of buyers and independent filmmakers.
What are the biggest trends at EFM this year?
AVOD (advertising-supported video on demand) is growing, and buyers are prioritizing films with recognizable actors.
Do I need a finished film to attend EFM?
No. Many filmmakers attend with projects in development to pitch to sales agents and distributors.
How important is casting for international sales?
Very. Buyers prioritize big-name actors. If you’re casting lesser-known talent, make sure their cost aligns with their potential sales value.
What’s the next major film market after EFM?
The next big ones are Filmart in Hong Kong (March 2025) and Cannes in May 2025.
Key Terms Filmmakers Need to Know
Understanding these industry terms will help you navigate film markets like EFM, Cannes, and AFM.
- EFM (European Film Market): A major film market where films are bought, sold, and financed.
- AVOD (Advertising-Supported Video on Demand): A streaming model where viewers watch free content with ads.
- Sales Agent: Someone who represents films to international buyers and secures distribution deals.
- Distributor: A company that acquires films and releases them in theaters, streaming platforms, or other media.
- Pitch Deck: A visual presentation used to sell a film project.
- Pre-Sales: Agreements where a distributor buys rights to a film before it’s completed.
- Market Screening: A private screening where buyers preview films for potential acquisition.
- Co-Production: A film financed and produced by companies from different countries.
How to Make Film Markets Work for You
If you're serious about selling or financing your film, follow these steps to maximize your success at film markets.
- Step 01: Research & Plan Ahead – Identify key buyers and schedule meetings before the event.
- Step 02: Have a Strong Pitch – Be ready to pitch your film clearly with a trailer or pitch deck.
- Step 03: Focus on Cast & Marketability – Buyers favor films with recognizable actors.
- Step 04: Network with Industry Professionals – Meet sales agents, distributors, and filmmakers.
- Step 05: Stay on Top of Industry Trends – Keep learning about AVOD, streaming deals, and market shifts.
Want to Sell Your Film? Here’s Your Next Step
Making a movie is one thing—getting it sold and distributed is another. If you want to make sure your film gets in front of the right buyers, check out the International Film Distribution Action Plan.
This step-by-step program teaches you exactly how to finance, produce, and sell your film—so you don’t waste time or money on things that don’t work.
