Under the title ‘Scaling Stories: Co-Productions Driving Commercial Growth in the Region,’ the Arab Cinema Center will conclude its panel series at the Marché du Film during the 79th Cannes Film Festival on Sunday, May 17th, from 2 to 3 pm on the Main Stage.
Moderated by Michael Rosser (Asia & Middle East Editor at Screen International), the panel will explore how co-productions have become a key pathway for elevating the industry by unlocking financing opportunities, expanding market access, and increasing the commercial potential of films and series. The session will examine the evolution of partnership models between regional and international stakeholders to create globally competitive projects, while reinforcing the region’s position as a strong and commercially viable content partner.
The panel will feature Ali Jaafar, Head of Global Film and TV at MBC Studios and a BAFTA-nominated producer; Wissam Smayra, director, producer, and Founder of Clandestino Films; Marco Orsini, writer, director, producer, and Founder of the IEFTA, producer Myriam Sassine; Dhafer L’Abidine, actor, writer, producer, and director; Wareth Kareem, filmmaker, producer, and Executive Director of the Iraqi Film Fund
About Marché du Film
The Marché du Film, the business hub of the Festival de Cannes, is the world’s largest international gathering of film professionals. As a key step in the development, production, and distribution of films globally, the market brings together over 12,500 professionals (including producers, distributors, festival representatives, film institutions, buyers, and financiers) from more than 120 countries to exchange ideas, projects, and strike deals in a unique environment.
Website: www.marchedufilm.com
