American Pavilion’s Cannes Program to Include Talks With Demi Moore, Frederick Wiseman, Billy Zane

The American Pavilion has announced this year’s “Industry In Focus” series and “In Conversation” programming for the 2024 Cannes Film Festival. The programming will run from Wednesday, May 15, to Thursday, May 23, and will include a daily schedule of more than 25 panels, conversations and screenings.

This year’s “In Conversation” series will feature discussions with actress, producer and author Demi Moore, documentarian Frederick Wiseman and actor Billy Zane, (“Titanic”) along with five American filmmakers who are competing in the Cannes Directors’ Fortnight and Critics Week programs.

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The “Industry In Focus” series provides conversations with executives, producers, sales agents, casting directors, CEOs and journalists. Topics discussed will include public relations, marketing, development to production, international films the U.S. marketplace, opportunities in the Ukrainian film industry, documentaries, film festivals, sales, finance, distribution and more.

“The American Pavilion is excited to host a diverse and innovative group of artists and executives as they converse about every aspect of the film industry,” said Julie Sisk, the American Pavilion’s founder and president. “We are honored to have so many new and returning talent, filmmakers and entertainment industry leaders choosing to share their stories and expertise with our membership, students, and Emerging Filmmaker Showcase entrants.”

American Pavilion will also host “House Party,” a two-day summit showcasing new voices and diversity in film. Gold House will present the panel “Female Trailblazers in Hollywood,” as well as panels on purpose-driven filmmaking and a signing for Chaz Ebert’s new book “It’s Time To Give a FECK: Elevating Humanity through Forgiveness, Empathy, Compassion, and Kindness.”

The following is the full programming schedule to date. The schedule is subject to changes and additions.

WEDNESDAY, MAY 15

11:00 AM
INDUSTRY IN FOCUS: PR PROS
Top publicists share their tips and insights into the often misunderstood world of film publicity.
● Emma Griffiths / President / EG PR
● RJ Millard / President / Obscured Pictures
● Arianne Rocchi / Partner / Arwin Ventures
● Moderated by Sylvia Desrochers / EVP / MPRM Communications

12:30 PM
IN CONVERSATION: BILLY ZANE
During his illustrious career, Billy Zane has starred in some of the highest-grossing films of all time, and some of the most watched cult television experiences, including Titanic, Twin Peaks, and The Back To The Future and Sniper Franchises. Current projects include Waltzing with Brando which he produced and starred in and his directorial debut Hallway / Night.

2:00 PM
INDUSTRY IN FOCUS: MARKETING MAGICIANS
From pre-production through distribution, a smart, strategic marketing campaign can make or break the success of a film. Top marketing professionals come together in this panel to share their success stories and coming trends.
● Julie Fontaine / Fontaine Media Consulting
● Karina Gechtman / VP International Marketing & Publicity / Anton
● Valerie Van Gelder / Marketing Consultant, Producer
● Mounia Wissinger / SVP Global Marketing & Publicity / Protagonist Pictures
● Moderated by Steven Weintraub / Editor-in-Chief / Collider

6:00 PM–8:00 PM – Member Cocktail Party
Open to all American Pavilion members

THURSDAY, MAY 16
10:00 AM
IN CONVERSATION: FREDERICK WISEMAN
Presented with The American Library in Paris
From Titucut Follies (1967) to Menus-Plaisirs – Les Troisgros (2023), director Frederick Wiseman has captured the inner life of institutions in his documentaries, revealing the humanity behind the walls. Join us for an intimate conversation with the legendary filmmaker as he arrives for a screening of his seminal Law and Order (1969) at Cannes Classics.
● Moderated by Emilie Biggs / Head of Cultural Programs / The American Library in Paris

11:00 AM
INDUSTRY IN FOCUS: DEVELOPMENT TO PRODUCTION
The road from development to finished film can be long and bumpy. How do you pick the right projects and how do you see them through successfully? Experienced producers and executives discuss the highs and lows of building a slate.
● Jillian Apfelbaum / EVP Feature Film / Village Roadshow Pictures
● Lia Buman / Principal / Tango Entertainment
● Julia Stuart / Director of Original Film / Sky
● Tristen Tuckfield / EVP Feature Film / Village Roadshow Pictures
● Alice Vail / Director of Acquisitions and Development / Protagonist Pictures
● Moderated by Mia Galuppo / Film Writer / The Hollywood Reporter

12:30 PM
INDUSTRY IN FOCUS: INTERNATIONAL FILMS IN THE U.S. MARKETPLACE
Some of the most prolific distributors of international films in the U.S. discuss the challenges and opportunities of bringing these titles to audiences in the tricky post-pandemic landscape.
● Robert Aaronson / EVP / Cohen Media Group
● Ed Arentz / Co-President / Greenwich Entertainment
● Richard Lorber / Chairman & CEO / Kino Lorber Media Group

4:00 PM
OPPORTUNITIES IN THE UKRAINIAN FILM INDUSTRY
Explore opportunities for growth and collaboration within the Ukrainian film industry despite the challenges posed by the full-scale invasion. Discuss prospects for international cooperation, distribution strategies, and resilience of Ukrainian filmmakers.
● Maryna Kuderchuk / Head of the Ukrainian State Film Agency
● Victoria Yarmoshchuk / Executive Director / Ukrainian Motion Picture Association
● Andriy Khalpakhchi / General Director / Kyiv International Film Festival Molodist
● Manon Duverger / Project Manager / European Solidarity Fund for Ukrainian films
● Philippe Azoilay / Producer
● Moderated by Philip Illienko / Producer

FRIDAY, MAY 17

3:00 PM
INDUSTRY IN FOCUS: DOCUMENTARIES
If the “Golden Age” is over, what comes next? The American Pavilion’s annual conversation about the state of documentaries in the marketplace.
● Sara Bernstein / President / Imagine Documentaries
● Matt Burke / VP of Sales / Submarine
● Nanette Burstein / Filmmaker / Elizabeth Taylor: The Lost Tapes (Cannes Classics)
● Deborah Riley Draper / Filmmaker / The Legacy of Black Wall Street
● John Sloss / Founder & CEO / Cinetic Media
● Moderated by Stewart Clarke / SVP, Content, International / Deadline

4:30 PM
INDUSTRY IN FOCUS: FILM FESTIVALS
The role of film festivals in the indie film ecosystem is more critical than ever. Representatives from some of the most influential festivals in the U.S. gather to discuss how they are overcoming challenges and continuing to bring filmmakers and audiences together.
● Claudette Godfrey / VP of Film & TV / SXSW
● Mimi Plauche / Artistic Director / Chicago International Film Festival
● Paul Rachman / Co-founder / Slamdance
● Anu Rangachar / Artistic Director / Indian Film Festival of Los Angeles

6 PM
UNVEILING ‘THE GLASSWORKER’
Presented by the Pakistan Crescent Collective
Join us for the Pakistan Crescent Collective’s debut at Cannes. Hear a historic talk with Mano Animation Studios “The Glassworker” (Pakistan’s first 2D Hand Drawn Feature) team, ahead of its Annecy premiere. Witness Pakistani cinema history unfold.
● Usman Riaz / Director
● Khizer Riaz/ Producer
● Moderated by Mohammed Ali Naqvi/ Chairman – Pakistani Academy Selection Committee

SATURDAY, MAY 18

11:00AM
INDUSTRY IN FOCUS: SALES
Sales agents and filmmakers gather to discuss current worldwide market trends, success stories, solutions, and challenges facing independent films seeking distribution.
● Louis Balsan / EVP International Distribution & Acquisitions / Anton
● Jason Ishikawa / Senior Executive / Cinetic Media
● Kristen Konvitz / Agent, Independent Film / UTA
● Heather Rae / Producer & Director / Fancy Dance, Frozen River

12:30PM
INDUSTRY IN FOCUS: FINANCE
What models for financing independent feature films are working and what might the future hold?
● Glenn Ackermann / Founder & CEO / V International Media
● Steven Demmler / President / Talon Entertainment Finance
● Jon Gosier / Founder & CEO / FilmHedge
● Mark Pennell / President / Catalyst Studios
● Moderated by Harris Tulchin / Producer, Attorney, Author / Harris Tulchin & Associates

2:00PM
INDUSTRY IN FOCUS: DISTRIBUTION
A conversation with U.S. distributors who are utilizing theatrical, VOD, streaming and everything in between to get their films in front of audiences.
● Dan Berger / President / Oscilloscope Laboratories
● Andy Bohn / Co-President / Greenwich Entertainment
● Peter Goldwyn / President / Samuel Goldwyn Films
● Lisa Schwartz / Chief Revenue Officer / Kino Lorber

4:30PM
IN CONVERSATION: AMERICAN FILMMAKERS IN CANNES
Five American directors with projects in the prestigious Directors’ Fortnight and Critics’ Week programs discuss their journeys to Cannes.
● India Donaldson / Writer, Director / Good One
● Carson Lund / Writer, Director / Eephus
● Ryan J. Sloane / Co-writer, Director / Gazer
● Tyler Taormina / Writer, Director / Christmas Eve in Miller’s Point
● Constance Tsang / Writer, Director / Blue Sun Palace

SUNDAY, MAY 19
HOUSE PARTY

11:00AM
FEMALE TRAILBLAZERS IN HOLLYWOOD
Presented by Gold House
Join Gold House for an intimate chat shining the spotlight on incredible female leaders in the entertainment industry. Hear from women leading all aspects of the business and where they see the future of entertainment.
● Janet Yang / President / AMPAS
● Christina Chou / Agent / CAA
● Christine D’Souza / Producer
● Moderated by Tiffany Chao / Vice President, Entertainment & Media / Gold House

12:30PM
REEL CHANGE: THE BRIGHT FUTURE OF SOCIAL IMPACT FILM FINANCING
Presented by The Impact Lounge
Explore the sunny future of film financing for this thriving sector. We’ll discuss pioneering approaches from both organizations and individuals who are bringing forth a new era of funding outside the traditional system. Social impact entertainment has only just begun to make its mark in the broad landscape of filmmaking.
● Kayvan Mashayekh / Founder / Producers Without Borders
● Robert Rippberger / Co-Founder / Social Impact Entertainment Society
● Rick Davis / Managing Partner / LOHAS
● Moderated by Heather Mason / Founder / The Impact Lounge & Caspian Agency

2:00PM
DISRUPTING THE FILM WORLD
Presented by Antigravity, CAPE, and Dolby
This panel will feature four creatives as they discuss how new generations of filmmakers can find non-traditional methods for creating work that is daring, bold, and meaningful. Light refreshments to follow.
● Daniel Goldhaber / Director, Writer and Producer
● Fawzia Mirza / Filmmaker
● Tawfik Alzaidi / Director
● Marjon Javadi / Vice President, Documentary Film & Series / Disney
● Moderated by Academy Award Nominated Director, Carlos López Estrada

TIME TBD
IN CONVERSATION: DEMI MOORE
Actress, Producer, and New York Times bestselling author Demi Moore joins us to discuss her incomparable career, including The Substance, premiering in competition at Cannes. Upcoming and recent projects include the Paramount+ drama Landman and Feud: Capote vs. The Swans. Moore set a record in 1995 as the highest-paid actress in Hollywood with films like St. Elmo’s Fire, Ghost, A Few Good Men, Indecent Proposal, G.I. Jane, and Charlie’s Angels: Full Throttle.
● Moderated by David Canfield / Vanity Fair

6:00PM
TASVEER MATCHMAKING: FIND YOUR FUNDS
Produced by Tasveer, co-hosted by the Crescent Film Collective
The US-based Oscar-Qualifying Tasveer Film Festival launches the world’s first International South Asian Film Market! Join our exclusive speed networking event. Selected filmmaker teams will meet with established film financiers and funders to pitch their next masterpiece for a rapid round of networking, followed by a cocktail sundowner reception for all participants. Mingle and celebrate at the post-event reception!
● RSVP NOW: https://tinyurl.com/mr32vfru
● Registering on the google form doesn’t confirm selection, selected participants will receive an email confirmation no later than May 17th 2024.

MONDAY, MAY 20
HOUSE PARTY

11:00AM
INCLUSIVE CASTING PRACTICES FOR INTERNATIONAL CO-PRODUCTIONS: Diversity across borders and technology
Presented by Casting Society (CSA), the International Casting Directors Association (ICDA), and Filmmakers Europe, the EU’s leading casting platform
From dissecting methodologies for color-conscious casting to delving into the broader significance of diversity in storytelling, our panelists will engage in insightful conversations around the complexities of inclusive narratives. We will discuss how AI technology can support Casting Directors, examining its potential role in enhancing diversity and representation.

12:30PM
DOLBY NEW VOICES NEW VISIONS + GFS & ANTIGRAVITY ACADEMY
Filmmakers from the Ghetto Film School Roster program discuss their experience participating in the Dolby New Voices New Visions incubator, and the questions and ideas that drive their art.
● Luna Garcia / Filmmaker / Ghetto Film School
● Sarah Jean Williams / Filmmaker / Ghetto Film School
● Antonello Velez / Filmmaker / Ghetto Film School
● Dwayne LeBlanc / Filmmaker / Ghetto Film School
● Moderated by Carlos Lopez-Estrada / Filmmaker

2:00PM
PURPOSE-DRIVEN FILMMAKING: EMPATHY AND THE MOVIES
Panelists will discuss the trend toward purpose-driven filmmaking in today’s industry and how that is impacted by the diversity of filmmakers, film genres, and the changes in funding in the filmmaking system. How does what we see on screen reflect society, engender empathy, or affect international relations? What is the impact of the absence of companies like Participant Media?
● Darrien Gipson / Executive Director / SAGIndie
● Jacqueline Coley / Awards Editor / Rotten Tomatoes
● Robert Daniels / Associate Editor / RogerEbert.com
● Moderated by Chaz Ebert / CEO Ebert Digital / Publisher of RogerEbert.com

3:00PM
BOOK SIGNING WITH CHAZ EBERT: “It’s Time To Give a FECK: Elevating Humanity through Forgiveness, Empathy, Compassion and Kindness”

TUESDAY, MAY 21
11:00AM
IN CONVERSATION: ASHLAND HILL MEDIA FINANCE
Ashland Hill Media Finance is a specialist film and TV financing company with offices around the globe. Upcoming films include The Magic Faraway Tree, The Crow, Tornado, and Trap House; recently release films include Chief of Station and Fast Charlie. The company also backs the independent entertainment company Palisades Park Pictures.
● Joe Simpson / Managing Partner / Ashland Hill Media Finance
● Simon Williams / Managing Partner / Ashland Hill Media Finance
● Jonathan Bross / Managing Partner / Ashland Hill Media Finance
● Moderated by Brent Lang / Executive Editor / Variety

12:30PM
SURVIVE ‘TIL TWENTY-FIVE: STRATEGIES FOR SUCCESSFUL INTERNATIONAL CO-PRODUCTIONS
A discussion about effective strategies for fostering international co-productions with international and festival appeal in the current climate. This panel offers insights from industry experts in production, talent management, casting, and film festival participation.

2:00PM
INDIEWIRE’S “SCREEN TALK” PODCAST
IndieWire’s weekly Screen Talk podcast has delved into the biggest questions facing the film industry for years. For this special live episode, join Screen Talk hosts Anne Thompson and Ryan Lattanzio for a spirited discussion about festival buzz, awards season, and the future of cinema itself.
● Anne Thompson / IndieWire
● Ryan Lattanzio / IndieWire

Emerging Filmmaker Showcase Presented by Gold House
3:30-6:00PM – LGBTQ+ Screenings

9:00 PM–2:00 AM
Queer Night
An LGBTQ+ dance party open to all Festival and Marché badge holders

WEDNESDAY, MAY 22

11:00AM
NEW HORIZONS: WORKING ABROAD AS AN AMERICAN
Presented with The American Library in Paris
American journalists and producers delve into the intricacies of working abroad. Ideal for both established and aspiring film professionals, this conversation explores the myriad options, personal and professional hurdles, and career-enhancing opportunities awaiting those who venture beyond borders.
● Nancy Tartaglione / International Box Office Editor and Senior Contributor / Deadline
● Jordan Mintzer / Film Critic and Producer / The Hollywood Reporter
● Moderated by Emilie Biggs / Head of Cultural Programs / The American Library in Paris

12:30PM
INDUSTRY IN FOCUS: SHORT FILMS
A discussion about the important role shorts play in the film ecosystem.
● Theo Dumont / Co-Founder & Co-Director / HollyShorts Film Festival
● Sydney Netter / International Sales Agent / SND Films
● Nikolaj Niki Nikitin / Head of Finance & Operations / T-Port
● Blake Rice / Filmmaker, Tea / Cannes Short Film Competition

2:00PM
Emerging Filmmaker Showcase, Presented by Gold House

3:30PM-5:30PM – Emerging Filmmaker Student Screenings

5:30PM-7:30PM Emerging Filmmaker Screenings

THURSDAY, MAY 23

Emerging Filmmaker Showcase Presented by Gold House

10:00am-12:00pm Alumni Screenings

7:00 PM—10:00 PM SAGIndie Karaoke Night, open to all Festival and Marché badgeholders.

All schedules, panels, and guests are subject to changes.

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