EXCLUSIVE:Its been a year of evolution for theEuropean Film Marketand its TV trackBerlinale SeriesMarket.
Meanwhile, Berlinale Series boss Julia Fidel hasalso departed, with the track was discontinued as an independent program.
Notably for the TV biz, theBerlinale Series Marketindustry conference remains unaffected and will be running a full program.
Dennis RuhArtem Gvozdkov
That structure effectively means it remains untouched by the changes elsewhere.
DEADLINE:There have been several changes at Berlinale Series since the 2023 event.
Can you outline how they come about and what they mean?
Dennis Ruh: Sure, those changes are easy to explain.
After the last edition of the Berlinale, the festival management evaluated the festivals program structure.
Mariette Rissenbeek and Carlo Chatrian were targeting a more focused film and series program.
To achieve this goal, they decided to reduce the number of sections and films.
Berlinale Series as a program strand will be discontinued in the festival edition 2024.
Instead, serial formats will be integrated into the Berlinale Special Gala section.
Changes to the Berlinale Series Market as part of the European Film Market were never up for discussion.
High-profile series are an important economic factor and pilar for our clients business models.
Many diversified their businesses and deal with films and serial content at the same time.
The industry no longer draws this clear dividing line between cinematic and serial storytelling.
Also, creatives and talents move without difficulty between genres.
These are just two of numerous success stories.
Our colleagues running the Berlinale Series program strand formed a team with the Berlinale Series Market.
We had to reorganize some responsibilities with this discontinuation.
Carlo and his selection committee are scouting series for Berlinale Special Gala.
We are well prepared.
Exhibitors booths and industry tables can be found at Gropius Bau and the Marriott Hotel.
Carlo always supported the idea that episodic content should be part of Berlinale.
For the market the presence of series and providing a designated platform is indispensable.
What is the plan for the Berlinale Series Market Selects?
What are the criteria that shows are being selected by?
We are again planning to showcase a maximum of 16 series with substantial market potential.
This program is open for submissions and registration is still possible until later today (December 6).
During the selection process we evaluate the uniqueness and innovative aspects of the content.
We look for fresh and creative storytelling that stands out from existing shows.
We are also looking for shows with recognizable names in front of and behind the camera.
We consider the representation of diverse perspectives, cultures and characters.
Shows that reflect inclusivity often have a broader appeal in the global market.
Furthermore, we analyze the contents ability to engage viewers and keep them invested throughout the series.
We want the shows to travel.
DEADLINE:The serial formats element of Berlinale has been moved into the Berlinale Special Gala.
How does this impact what delegates can expect, and does it impact Berlinale Series Market?
Theres no big change in industry activities in Berlin.
The Berlinale Series Market remains active and will celebrate its 10th anniversary in 2024.
Because we are more boutique than Mipcom Cannes or Series Mania, we offer a highly curated selection.
What can you reveal about the Berlinale Series Market 2024 themes at this stage?
Therefore, the next editions conference topics are still in development until January.
In times of numerous challenges, we want to shed light on the opportunities arising from change.
DEADLINE:Is there anything specific planned to look at the conflicts in Ukraine and Israel/Gaza?
We understand our role in that we provide a space for artistic expression and enable peaceful dialogue.
Festivals and markets are places of encounter and exchange and contribute to international understanding.
Through the power of film, series and open discussions we make a run at help to foster empathy.
That said, we do plan activities to give exposure to Ukrainian industry delegates.
DEADLINE:Mariette Rissenbeek has said Berlin faces a tricky financial future.
Has this impacted your planning for 2024 and does this impact the Berlinale Series Market in years to come?
We did the redesign in close coordination with the exhibiting companies and institutions.
