The 2004 American Film Market closed with an increase in total attendance of 5%, it was announced by Jonathan Wolf, Executive Vice President, AFMA, and Managing Director of the AFM. In addition, Mr. Wolf reported that total buyers are up 10% from last year. The AFM, which opened Wednesday, February 25, concludes tomorrow, March 3.


Total attendance is 7,212, up 5% from 6,834 in 2003. The final tally of buyers is 1,434 compared to 1,309 last year, a 10% increase, with 642 buying companies registered compared to 598 in 2003.


Exhibitors rose to 3,672, an increase of 7% from 3,419 last year (this figure includes others badged by their offices, producers, talent, and lawyers). A record 306 film and television companies are exhibiting at the AFM this year, including 101 first timers -- an all time high.


Industry badges are up 19%, totaling 1,323 versus 1,114 in 2003, and all others (complimentary guest badges and press) number 783, down from last year’s 992.


A number of countries showed large increases in buyers, including Hungary (up 160%), Russia (up 56%), Hong Kong (up 45%) and Australia (up 31%). Brazil also showed a significant increase in buyers (up 32%), and despite the downturn in Latin America, figures for the region remained flat. This year’s market also marked considerable increases from Eastern European countries (up 23%).


The 24th Annual American Film Market hosted 291 motion picture companies exhibiting, up 14% from last year. To view the full list of exhibiting companies, visit our site.

AFM Screening Schedule
379 films in 28 languages have screened at this year’s AFM, including 246 market premieres.


The first fall AFM will be held November 3-10, 2004 at the Loews Hotel in Santa Monica. AFI FEST 2004 will be held November 4-14 at the ArcLight Cinemas in Hollywood.


“With the move to the fall, the AFM has created a strategic alliance with the AFI FEST that will benefit both organizations,” commented Ms. Prewitt. “This combination of a festival and a market will merge cultural and commercial activities and provide a broad and rich experience for all participants.”


“We are confident that the November AFM, alongside AFI FEST, will result in a record level of industry attendees,” added Mr. Ryan.