Cannes: American Pavilion Programming to Feature Demi Moore, Frederick Wiseman, Billy Zane and More

Demi Moore, documentarian Frederick Wiseman and Billy Zane are among the actors, filmmakers and other industry professionals who will be featured at The American Pavilion at the 2024 Cannes Film Festival.

Moore, Wiseman and Zane will be featured in separate sessions of the “In Conversation” series, along with a group of five American Filmmakers competing in the 2024 Cannes Directors’ Fortnight and Critics Week programs.   

Meanwhile, the “Industry in Focus” will feature conversations with executives, producers, sales agents, casting directors, CEOs and journalists from across the industry. This year’s topics include opportunities in Ukrainian films, international films in the U.S. marketplace, documentaries, sales, finance, marketing, public relations, film festivals, distribution and shorts.   

The festival programming runs May 15-23, with a daily schedule of more than 25 panels, conversations and screenings. The discussions and one-on-one conversations will take in the Roger Ebert Conference Center and are open to all AmPav members. The American Pavilion is owned by Penske Media Corporation, parent of The Hollywood Reporter.

The lineup was announced Monday by Julie Sisk, founder and president of The American Pavilion.
 
“The American Pavilion is excited to host a diverse and innovative group of artists and executives as they converse about every aspect of the film industry.  We are honored to have so many new and returning talent, filmmakers and entertainment industry leaders choosing to share their stories and expertise with our membership, students and Emerging Filmmaker Showcase entrants,” Sisk said.

In addition, The American Pavilion is hosting House Party, a two-day summit featuring new voices and global diversity in the film industry, on May 19 and 20. This includes a “Female Trailblazers in Hollywood” panel presented by Gold House, as well as panels on the future of social impact film finance, disrupting the film world, purpose-driven filmmaking and a signing with Chaz Ebert for her new book, It’s Time To Give a FECK: Elevating Humanity through Forgiveness, Empathy, Compassion and Kindness.
 
Queer Night, which organizers tout as “the best, biggest and only LGBTQ+ dance party tied to the festival,” is scheduled for 9 p.m. Entry is gratis to all festival and Marché du Film badge holders. 
 
Meanwhile, the Emerging Filmmaker Showcase features 36 official selection films in four showcases: student short films and documentaries; Emerging Filmmaker short films and documentaries; Emerging Filmmaker LGBTQ+ films; and an alumni showcase.

The full programming schedule follows (subject to changes and additions).

WEDNESDAY, MAY 15

11 a.m.
INDUSTRY IN FOCUS: PR PROS
Top publicists share their tips and insights into the often misunderstood world of film publicity.

12:30 p.m.
IN CONVERSATION: BILLY ZANE

During his illustrious career, Billy Zane has starred in some of the highest-grossing films of all time, and some of the most watched cult television experiences, including Titanic, Twin Peaks and the Back to the Future and Sniper franchises. Current projects include Waltzing With Brando, which he produced and starred in, and his directorial debut, Hallway/Night.

2 p.m.
INDUSTRY IN FOCUS: MARKETING MAGICIANS

From preproduction through distribution, a smart, strategic marketing campaign can make or break the success of a film. Top marketing professionals come together in this panel to share their success stories and coming trends.

6-8 p.m. – Member Cocktail Party

Open to all American Pavilion members

THURSDAY, MAY 16

10 a.m.
IN CONVERSATION: FREDERICK WISEMAN

Presented with The American Library in Paris

From Titucut Follies (1967) to Menus-Plaisirs – Les Troisgros (2023), director Frederick Wiseman has captured the inner life of institutions in his documentaries, revealing the humanity behind the walls. Join us for an intimate conversation with the legendary filmmaker as he arrives for a screening of his seminal Law and Order (1969) at Cannes Classics.

11 a.m.
INDUSTRY IN FOCUS: DEVELOPMENT TO PRODUCTION

The road from development to finished film can be long and bumpy. How do you pick the right projects and how do you see them through successfully? Experienced producers and executives discuss the highs and lows of building a slate.

12:30 p.m.
INDUSTRY IN FOCUS: INTERNATIONAL FILMS IN THE U.S. MARKETPLACE

Some of the most prolific distributors of international films in the U.S. discuss the challenges and opportunities of bringing these titles to audiences in the tricky post-pandemic landscape.

4 p.m.
OPPORTUNITIES IN THE UKRAINIAN FILM INDUSTRY

Explore opportunities for growth and collaboration within the Ukrainian film industry despite the challenges posed by the full-scale invasion. Discuss prospects for international cooperation, distribution strategies, and resilience of Ukrainian filmmakers.

FRIDAY, MAY 17

3 p.m.
INDUSTRY IN FOCUS: DOCUMENTARIES

If the “Golden Age” is over, what comes next? The American Pavilion’s annual conversation about the state of documentaries in the marketplace.

4:30 p.m.
INDUSTRY IN FOCUS: FILM FESTIVALS

The role of film festivals in the indie film ecosystem is more critical than ever. Representatives from some of the most influential festivals in the U.S. gather to discuss how they are overcoming challenges and continuing to bring filmmakers and audiences together.

6 p.m.
UNVEILING ‘THE GLASSWORKER’

Presented by the Pakistan Crescent Collective

Join us for the Pakistan Crescent Collective’s debut at Cannes. Hear a historic talk with Mano Animation Studios “The Glassworker” (Pakistan’s first 2D Hand Drawn Feature) team, ahead of its Annecy premiere. Witness Pakistani cinema history unfold.

SATURDAY, MAY 18

11 a.m.
INDUSTRY IN FOCUS: SALES

Sales agents and filmmakers gather to discuss current worldwide market trends, success stories, solutions, and challenges facing independent films seeking distribution. 

12:30 p.m.
INDUSTRY IN FOCUS: FINANCE

What models for financing independent feature films are working and what might the future hold?

2 p.m.
INDUSTRY IN FOCUS: DISTRIBUTION

A conversation with U.S. distributors who are utilizing theatrical, VOD, streaming and everything in between to get their films in front of audiences.

4:30 p.m.
IN CONVERSATION: AMERICAN FILMMAKERS IN CANNES

Five American directors with projects in the prestigious Directors’ Fortnight and Critics’ Week programs discuss their journeys to Cannes.

SUNDAY, MAY 19

HOUSE PARTY

House party is sponsored by 1497, AntiGravity Academy, Casting Society, Gold House, Ghetto Film School, The Impact Lounge and Tasveer.

11 a.m.
FEMALE TRAILBLAZERS IN HOLLYWOOD

Presented by Gold House

Join Gold House for an intimate chat shining the spotlight on incredible female leaders in the entertainment industry. Hear from women leading all aspects of the business and where they see the future of entertainment.

12:30 p.m.

REEL CHANGE: THE BRIGHT FUTURE OF SOCIAL IMPACT FILM FINANCING

Presented by The Impact Lounge

Explore the sunny future of film financing for this thriving sector. We’ll discuss pioneering approaches from both organizations and individuals who are bringing forth a new era of funding outside the traditional system. Social impact entertainment has only just begun to make its mark in the broad landscape of filmmaking.

2 p.m.
DISRUPTING THE FILM WORLD

Presented by Antigravity, CAPE, and Dolby

This panel will feature four creatives as they discuss how new generations of filmmakers can find non-traditional methods for creating work that is daring, bold, and meaningful. Light refreshments to follow.

TIME TBD
IN CONVERSATION: DEMI MOORE

Actress, Producer, and New York Times bestselling author Demi Moore joins us to discuss her incomparable career, including The Substance, premiering in competition at Cannes. Upcoming and recent projects include the Paramount+ drama Landman and Feud: Capote vs. The Swans. Moore set a record in 1995 as the highest-paid actress in Hollywood with films like St. Elmo’s Fire, Ghost, A Few Good Men, Indecent Proposal, G.I. Jane and Charlie’s Angels: Full Throttle.

6 p.m.
TASVEER MATCHMAKING: FIND YOUR FUNDS

Produced by Tasveer, co-hosted by the Crescent Film Collective

The U.S.-based Oscar-Qualifying Tasveer Film Festival launches the world’s first International South Asian Film Market! Join our exclusive speed networking event. Selected filmmaker teams will meet with established film financiers and funders to pitch their next masterpiece for a rapid round of networking, followed by a cocktail sundowner reception for all participants.  Mingle and celebrate at the post-event reception!

MONDAY, MAY 20

HOUSE PARTY

11 a.m.
INCLUSIVE CASTING PRACTICES FOR INTERNATIONAL CO-PRODUCTIONS: Diversity across borders and technology

Presented by Casting Society, the International Casting Directors Association and Filmmakers Europe, the EU’s leading casting platform

From dissecting methodologies for color-conscious casting to delving into the broader significance of diversity in storytelling, our panelists will engage in insightful conversations around the complexities of inclusive narratives. We will discuss how AI technology can support Casting Directors, examining its potential role in enhancing diversity and representation.

12:30 p.m.
DOLBY NEW VOICES NEW VISIONS + GFS & ANTIGRAVITY ACADEMY

Filmmakers from the Ghetto Film School Roster program discuss their experience participating in the Dolby New Voices New Visions incubator, and the questions and ideas that drive their art.

2 p.m.
PURPOSE-DRIVEN FILMMAKING: EMPATHY AND THE MOVIES

Panelists will discuss the trend toward purpose-driven filmmaking in today’s industry and how that is impacted by the diversity of filmmakers, film genres, and the changes in funding in the filmmaking system. How does what we see on screen reflect society, engender empathy, or affect international relations? What is the impact of the absence of companies like Participant Media?

3 p.m.
BOOK SIGNING WITH CHAZ EBERT: It’s Time to Give a FECK: Elevating Humanity through Forgiveness, Empathy, Compassion and Kindness

TUESDAY, MAY 21

11 a.m.
IN CONVERSATION: ASHLAND HILL MEDIA FINANCE

Ashland Hill Media Finance is a specialist film and TV financing company with offices around the globe. Upcoming films include The Magic Faraway Tree, The Crow, Tornado and Trap House; recently release films include Chief of Station and Fast Charlie. The company also backs the independent entertainment company Palisades Park Pictures.

12:30 p.m.
SURVIVE ‘TIL TWENTY-FIVE: STRATEGIES FOR SUCCESSFUL INTERNATIONAL CO-PRODUCTIONS

A discussion about effective strategies for fostering international co-productions with international and festival appeal in the current climate. This panel offers insights from industry experts in production, talent management, casting, and film festival participation.

2 p.m.
INDIEWIRE’S SCREEN TALK PODCAST

IndieWire’s weekly Screen Talk podcast has delved into the biggest questions facing the film industry for years. For this special live episode, join Screen Talk hosts Anne Thompson and Ryan Lattanzio for a spirited discussion about festival buzz, awards season, and the future of cinema itself.

Emerging Filmmaker Showcase Presented by Gold House
3:30-6 p.m. – LGBTQ+ Screenings

9 p.m.-2 a.m.
Queer Night

An LGBTQ+ dance party open to all Festival and Marché badge holders

WEDNESDAY, MAY 22

11 a.m.
NEW HORIZONS: WORKING ABROAD AS AN AMERICAN

Presented with The American Library in Paris

American journalists and producers delve into the intricacies of working abroad. Ideal for both established and aspiring film professionals, this conversation explores the myriad options, personal and professional hurdles, and career-enhancing opportunities awaiting those who venture beyond borders.

12:30 p.m.
INDUSTRY IN FOCUS: SHORT FILMS

A discussion about the important role shorts play in the film ecosystem.

2 p.m.
Emerging Filmmaker Showcase, Presented by Gold House
3:30 p.m.-5:30 p.m. – Emerging Filmmaker Student Screenings
5:30 p.m.-7:30 p.m. – Emerging Filmmaker Screenings

THURSDAY, MAY 23

Emerging Filmmaker Showcase Presented by Gold House
10 a.m.-12 p.m. – Alumni Screenings
7-10 p.m. – SAGIndie Karaoke Night, open to all Festival and Marché badgeholders