Michael Barker to give PFM keynote

He will speak to the 200+ delegates and industry guests as the PFM kicks off on Wednesday (Oct 16).

His speech will cover “producing and distributing independent feature films, particularly assessing the role of Sony Pictures Classics, its objectives, achievements and its critical role in ensuring independent features, including foreign language films, access the North American market.”

The PFM runs Oct 16-17 in association with the BFI London Film Festival.

There will be 52 producers and 57 financiers participating in more than 800 meetings.

Barker will also speak on a financing panel alongside Doug Hansen of Endgame Entertainment and Ben Browning of Start Motion Pictures.

Adrian Wootton, Chief Executive of Film London and the British Film Commission said: “We are extremely honoured to welcome Michael as our keynote speaker. Admired throughout the international film industry he will provide a keen insight into the world of independent film production and distribution. His expertise in successfully selling films to international audiences, as well as underpinning multi territory finance will ensure a fantastic start to this year’s Market. In addition to Michael, I would also like to thank our funders, the Mayor of London, MEDIA and the BFI. I am also delighted to be extending the PFM into the micro and low budget arena with Micro-Market - the emerging talent involved will also benefit greatly from Michael’s role at the PFM.”

As previously reported, Film London is also launching the Micro-Market alongside the PFM. Barker will also give a masterclass for Market attendees.

Angus Finney, PFM Project Manager, noted the quality of the many of the projects this year: “We were extremely impressed by the level of film-makers keen to exploit the PFM, including Back2Back’s outstanding Kevin Macdonald title, Deep Purple’s Jakarta Nightmare; Spain’s Thinklab-produced animation film, Deep and VVZ’s The World At Night, to be directed by Michael Radford.”