UK Buyer/ Seller Event: Who's Buying? - Part 1

Paraphrased from Screen Daily, June 11, 2009, as with the Spanish event, the question is posed, Who is Buying What?

The London UK Film Focus (June 29-July 2) is showcasing UK films to a captive audience of international buyers. For those smaller UK sales agents trying to stay afloat, this year’s LUFF, run by Film London, has assumed a new importance.

Around 120 international buyers will be in town for four days to see UK films such as Ealing Studios’ "From Time To Time" and Carnaby International’s comedy-horror "Doghouse".

UK sellers claim that LUFF gives them to reach distributors with titles that risk being overlooked in the maelstrom of the Cannes market. The event’s organisers estimate the event generates around $3m of film sales each year.

LUFF 2009 is backed by Film London, the UK Film Council, the British Film Institute, Film Export UK, UK Trade & Investment and the London Development Agency.

StudioCanal and its Affiliates Optimum Releasing and Kinowelt

Optimum Releasing, the UK distribution company has appointed Robb Smith to head up UK TV sales and the head up StudioCanal's international TV sales as well. Previously he was senior VP of MGM Television Europe responsible for the company’s licensing across Europe, Middle East and Africa. New head of theatrical distribution is John-Trafford Owen.

Kinowelt has a new head of theatrical distribution from 20th Century Fox Germany where he was head of Fox Searchlight. Kalle Friz will also be in charge of local acquisitions and coproductions.