In the context of the current Covid-19 crisis, TV France International, the organization for the international promotion of French audiovisual content, has decided to turn Le Rendez-Vous Biarritz into an entirely digital event.
“We sent a questionnaire to our sellers and buyers and consulted with our supervisory organizations, the CNC (French National Center for Cinema and the Moving Image), the Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs, and the Procirep (Association for Cinema and Television Producers). It became clear that we simply could not hold an in-person event, as we already knew that many of those who would normally attend would not be able to make it,” explained Sarah Hemar, Executive Director of TV France International.
Le Rendez-Vous Biarritz is the first market of the season, and the only international event entirely dedicated to French audiovisual content of every genre. Last year, it drew 130 sellers and 260 buyers from every continent.
“We are, of course, very disappointed not to be able to bring together, in person, all of our sector’s players. Providing them with the ideal conditions for meetings, exchange, and fun moments has been our mission for 25 years now. But postponing the event with the aim of holding it in its usual format at a later date was not an option as we simply don’t know what is going to happen over the next few months. However, by taking this decision early, we are giving ourselves the chance to organize the best event possible. We will draw on experience garnered over the last few months to create a totally digital event that will offer a proper showcase to new French content available in September,” Hemar added.
Le Rendez-Vous de Biarritz 2020 will take place, as planned, from September 6 to 10 in an entirely digital format. It will use its Screenopsis platform and the associated LeGuide application, digital tools developed by TV France International. The possibility of extending the event to take into account participants’ availability through remote access is currently under consideration.
“The relationships between TV France members and their clients are strong and well maintained, despite the difficulties of the current situation. We strive to remain ambitious and creative to ensure that the 26th Rendez-Vous offers everyone a new experience and a chance to reinforce those ties,” Hemar concluded.