Filmroller

Reflecting on Cannes

May 25, 2008 – 1:21 pm

I remember before I was about to go, I was thrilled to go but also not sure if it would be worth it. It’s an expensive venture and as an independent writer director it can be difficult to justify any additional expenses, but it was so worth it.  I now have an Italian co-producer who really gets the script and being in Cannes, I also learned about funds for film makers shooting their films in Italy that I wouldn’t of heard of otherwise.

I had some cool serendipitous moments. I went to a massive party at a villa for the German films and there I met a terrific producer who produces for Sting.  I met stephen who produced Jennifer Lynch’s new film and invited me to the afterparty for the film, which aside from having the most fantastic dancefllor on hydolic lifts hovering above a pool was a great chance to meet other filmmakers  from around the world.

I was thrilled that so many producers, sales agents, and distributors said yes to meetings evn though they don’t know me. They took a chance and from these meetings every one asked to read the script or one page and we are now in e-mail contact. I would heartily recommend throwing yourself out there and going to Cannes. Especially to anyone who has one or more features under their belt and are looking for European or American co-producers people are very open to meeting and the opportunities are immense.