The Business of Show Business
A trade show in the context of the film industry is a large-scale convention or exposition that is not open to the general public. Instead, it is a focused business-to-business event that brings together professionals from all corners of the industry. These shows are critical for networking, deal-making, and staying current with the latest technological advancements and market trends. Each trade show typically caters to a specific segment of the industry, from the people who make the films to the people who exhibit them.
These events are a cornerstone of the industry’s calendar, providing a rare opportunity for thousands of professionals who are normally spread across the globe to meet face-to-face. Studios present their upcoming slates, technology companies unveil new cameras and software, and deals that shape the future of the industry are often initiated in the hallways and meeting rooms of these conventions.
Key Industry Trade Shows
Different trade shows serve different purposes and audiences, but a few stand out as major annual events:
- CinemaCon: This is the official convention of the National Association of Theatre Owners (NATO). Held in Las Vegas, it is the largest and most important gathering for the worldwide motion picture theater industry. At CinemaCon, major studios give lavish presentations to theater owners, debuting exclusive footage and bringing out A-list stars to promote their upcoming slates for the year. It’s where exhibitors decide what they’ll be showing in their theaters.
- NAB Show (National Association of Broadcasters): Also held in Las Vegas, NAB is a massive trade show focused on the technology of content creation, management, and delivery. It’s where companies like Sony, ARRI, and Blackmagic Design unveil their latest cinema cameras, lighting equipment, and post-production software. Cinematographers, editors, and production executives attend to see the cutting-edge tools that will shape the future of filmmaking.
- MIPCOM / MIPTV: Held in Cannes, France, these are leading global trade shows for television and digital content. While not exclusively for film, they are crucial markets where production companies and distributors buy and sell the rights to television shows and movies for international broadcast and streaming.
- AFM (American Film Market): Held in Santa Monica, California, this is a major trade show focused on the business of independent film. Producers come to secure financing and sell distribution rights for their projects to buyers from all over the world.