The American Film Convention, Inc.’s inaugural eponymous film industry event—The American Film Convention (AFC)—will take place October 15-17, 2024 at Magic Box in Downtown Los Angeles, CEO and founder Mitesh Patel announced today.
The convention promises to push the conventional boundaries of the industry gathering format. Unlike a traditional international film trade show or market, AFC has created a forum to bring independent filmmakers together with all disciplines, and industry veterans for visionaries to discuss and explore the current and future landscape. Incorporating elements of market, auction, conference, product and service showcase, workshop, talks and addresses, pitch fest, networking event, and filmed and live entertainment, the AFC is more than each of these things, and yet more than the sum of its parts.
The sprawling event offers more than 100,000 square feet of exhibition space and has room for 400 exhibitors and participants. Organizers expect the convention to draw about 5,000 delegates in its first year.
“We created The American Film Convention as an innovative entity that’s poised to vault to the forefront of the global film industry and return that focus to the entertainment epicenter of the world, Los Angeles, California,” Patel says, “AFC is dedicated to expanding the way industry professionals engage, collaborate, and innovate within the filmed entertainment realm. We’re committed to creating some fresh and innovative programs and present a more all-inclusive forum. AFC intends to supplement rather than supplant the current industry gathering landscape and offerings. We want to realize a future where the boundaries of cinematic creativity are constantly pushed, where innovation knows no limits, and where the film community comes together to inspire, educate, and elevate the art of storytelling.”
While a dramatic pivot from his career achievements until now, AFC founder Patel is a distinguished figure in the entertainment industry, with a prolific career as a producer and director. CEO of Applied Art Productions, Patel’s production credits include WOMAN IN THE MAZE, BITE THE DUST, and INSTANT KARMA. He also founded and serves as CEO of the Chandler International Film Festival in Arizona, which just wrapped its eighth edition this past winter.
He adds, “We’ve created a platform and a venue that transcends traditional conventions, fostering an environment where creativity and commerce converge, and where the seeds of collaboration sprout into groundbreaking cinematic achievements.
“Whether you are a cinematographer, director, actor, writer, producer, or distributor, AFC is for you. All components of the film industry have a place at our convention. We encourage filmmakers to attend, regardless of their budget or stage of production. Whether you are a seasoned filmmaker, an aspiring or established talent, a technology enthusiast, or an industry-minded entrepreneur, our convention offers something extraordinary for all our delegates.”
Specifically, AFC has outlined the following convention sections for guests to exhibit, explore, and participate in.
Film Market/Expo
Filling the local gap left by the decamping of Los Angeles’ former film market to Las Vegas, AFC provides an opportunity for domestic and foreign producers to showcase their titles to buyers and distributors. Film Expo presents attendees with professionals, innovators, artists, and service providers from all fields of cinema production. The Expo is designed to showcase the latest advancements in equipment, tools, and methodologies that are transforming the industry landscape to inspire innovation and promote the partnerships of tomorrow’s filmmakers.
Film Auction
AFC features one of the world’s first film auctions, where filmmakers and buyers come together to create unparalleled opportunities. Filmmakers can receive the best offers for their works, while buyers work secure the most advantageous deals. The auction accelerates the process of film acquisition, ensuring that both parties get better value and less friction from their transactions. The AFC auctions promise to be a thrilling showcase of valuable assets of the film industry, fostering collaboration and investment in a highly competitive environment.
Film Screenings
AFC’s on-site screening series will showcase a diverse selection of films from around the globe to its captive, engaged industry audience. From scrappy independents to studio fare, AFC’s film screenings will both drive commerce as well as foster an appreciation for the art of filmmaking.
Money Market
Who doesn’t need film financing? The Money Market—where filmmakers can connect with industry investors and funders to finance new movie projects—is bound to be one of the most popular features of the American Film Convention. This is where creative visions meet financial backing, fostering partnerships and hopefully, will bring some cinematic dreams to life.
Networking
Delegates to AFC will join thousands of like-minded peers forging meaningful connections and relationships at networking events. Whether it’s a chance encounter at the Film Market, a conversation sparked by shared interests at the Film Expo, or a deeper dive into industry trends at the conferences, American Film Convention is a melting pot of creativity and cooperation.
American Film Convention (AFC) website www.americanfilmconvention.com is launching on April 24th with early bird pass at $325 and exhibition space from $3,250.
photo courtesy Magic Box @ The REEF
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