Written by Kianna Best on May 9, 2025. Posted in General Interest

2025 Marché du Film Champions Diversity, Innovation, and Brazilian Storytelling

The 2025 Marché du Film returns to Cannes as the epicentre of global film commerce and creative exchange, drawing over 14,000 industry professionals for nine days of deal-making, discovery, and dialogue. This year, Brazil is honoured as the Country of Honour, spotlighting its rising cinematic influence and international ambitions. From powerhouse co-production meetings to game-changing panels on inclusion, sustainability, and the future of storytelling, the market offers unparalleled access to trends and talent shaping the next era of cinema.

Image courtesy of Festival de Cannes

The Marché du Film 2025 offers a dynamic schedule of over 250 industry events, including thought-provoking conferences, exclusive works-in-progress showcases, engaging pitching sessions, hands-on workshops, and lively mixers. These events are designed to foster collaboration, inspire innovation, and provide insights into the evolving landscape of global cinema.

Key programs such as Cannes Docs provide a dedicated venue and tailored events for documentary film professionals, including talks, consultations, and multiple networking formats, culminating in the much-anticipated Doc Day. The impACT program addresses pivotal issues shaping today's cinema, such as diversity, inclusion, representation, sustainability, and equity, through inspiring conferences and workshops tailored for emerging producers. Additionally, Goes to Cannes offers a unique showcase bringing together film festivals and markets from around the globe, presenting curated selections of original works-in-progress and connecting attendees with the creative talents behind these projects.

Image courtesy of Claire Lebeau / Marché du Film

These programs, among others, underscore the Marché du Film's commitment to fostering a vibrant and inclusive global film community, making it an essential destination for industry professionals seeking to engage with the future of cinema.

Brazil's selection as Country of Honour is a testament to its burgeoning film industry, which boasts over 43,800 companies and generated USD 440 million at the box office in 2023. The nation's cinematic achievements are exemplified by recent accolades, such as Gabriel Mascaro’s "The Blue Trail" winning the Silver Bear at the 2025 Berlinale, and Walter Salles’ "I’m Still Here" securing Brazil's first Academy Award for Best International Feature Film.

The Marché du Film serves as a pivotal platform for Brazil to showcase its creative talents and foster international partnerships. The country's participation includes curated showcases, work-in-progress sessions, and discussions aimed at providing industry professionals with insights into Brazil's creative landscape and opening avenues for co-production opportunities.

A highlight of Brazil's involvement is the France-Brazil Co-Production Meetings scheduled for 20 May. This event facilitates one-on-one meetings between selected Brazilian producers and French partners, promoting collaboration through existing bilateral agreements and support mechanisms like the Aide aux Cinémas du Monde.

Image courtesy of Claire Lebeau / Marché du Film

Brazil's presence extends across several key programs of the Marché du Film, including film and documentary work-in-progress showcases, industry panels, and networking events. These initiatives aim to strengthen Brazil's position as a leading global co-production hub, supported by over 500 completed co-productions and bilateral agreements with 13 key industry players.

Brazil's role as Country of Honour not only celebrates its rich cinematic heritage but also reinforces its commitment to fostering international collaboration and cultural exchange. As Margareth Menezes, Brazil’s Minister of Culture, aptly stated, "Brazil and France have long shared a strong and evolving partnership, and this extends to the world of cinema and the creative industries."

With a robust lineup of events and initiatives, Brazil's participation in the 2025 Marché du Film is poised to leave a lasting impact on the global film industry, highlighting the nation's creative prowess and its dedication to forging meaningful international partnerships.