International Film Markets - Cannes Film Festival Study Abroad
EMST 4040/6040
3 hours
International Film Markets - Cannes Film Festival Study Abroad
Course Description
An introduction to the international film business with a primary focus on marketing campaigns and distribution strategies, taking into account the social, political, and economic climates of various territories worldwide. International production finance will also be discussed.
Additional Requirements for Graduate Students: Graduate students will be required to complete a paper on a
topic of their choosing based on international theatrical
feature film marketing and sales trends. A thorough
integration and critique of course materials and research on
multiple platforms and global territories must be presented
from a critical/cultural perspective.
Athena Title
Intl Film Markets Cannes
Undergraduate Prerequisite
Permission of department
Graduate Prerequisite
Permission of department
Semester Course Offered
Offered summer semester every year.
Grading System
A - F (Traditional)
Student learning Outcomes
Students will gain understanding the historical parameters of independent film vs. studio films, and how technology and business models are blurring those historic distinctions.
Students will articulate the importance of film festivals in independent film.
Students will understand the roles of marketers, distributors, and exhibitors.
Students will identify the different platforms for delivering films to viewers.
Students will understand the major crowdfunding services and how they work.
Students will identify the major elements of film revenue return.
Students will identify the three main audiences in pitching a film.
Students will understand the five stages of pitch meetings.
Students will understand the importance of a business plan, a pitch slideshow with storyboards, press kits, and a production website and social media efforts in the marketing of independent film.
Topical Outline
Introduction to the business of motion pictures and the festival market.
Attend the Cannes Film Festival. The class will meet for a brief period each day during the festival. Students will spend most of their time at festival screenings and seminars, and meetings with filmmakers and industry professionals.
In-class discussions, analysis and critiques of films, and lectures on marketing campaigns, distribution strategies, and development/finance. Presentation of class projects.
