Updated
Updated · The New York Times · Sep 16
TIFF Adds New Market Component After Weighing Shift Since 2012
Updated
Updated · The New York Times · Sep 16

TIFF Adds New Market Component After Weighing Shift Since 2012

2 articles · Updated · The New York Times · Sep 16

Summary

  • TIFF has launched TIFF: The Market, centered on a convention-center hall built for distributors, executives, agents and filmmakers to meet and strike deals.
  • The move pushes Toronto beyond its exhibition-only model toward the hybrid structure used by Cannes and Berlin, where screenings run alongside sales, pitches and financing talks.
  • Cameron Bailey said the festival began exploring a market as early as 2012, reflecting a long-running effort to broaden TIFF’s role in the global film business.
  • Industry participants say the change marks a notable break from TIFF’s reputation as a place where buyers mainly watch films rather than schedule large volumes of meetings.

Insights

As TIFF pivots to a cutthroat business hub, are independent filmmakers gaining a crucial launchpad or losing their spotlight?
Can a structured marketplace truly replace the legendary, multi-million dollar deals traditionally struck in Toronto's informal hotel lobbies?