Lumière Festival's Classic Film Market Expands Globally

The International Classic Film Market, known as MIFC and operating as a core component of Lyon's prestigious Lumière Festival, is cementing its status as one of the rare global business meeting places dedicated entirely to the heritage film industry. As the market prepares for its upcoming sessions, organizers note a distinct shift: classic films are no longer niche products for older generations. Instead, they are commanding increasingly larger audiences, with a significant surge in popularity among younger cinema-goers.

This year's edition of the market gathers industry giants, including representatives from Paramount, Park Circus, Studiocanal, and Warner Bros. Among the central events is a panel discussion featuring Paramount's Charlotte Barker and Park Circus CEO Douglas Davis. They will explore the intricacies of the Anglo-Saxon model for classic film distribution and rights management, providing crucial insights for professionals navigating the evolving cinematic landscape.

In addition to distribution panels, the event will feature prominent figures wearing multiple industry hats. Paolo Moretti, head of the ECAL university cinema department, Geneva's Grütli Cinemas, and Fondazione Prada's Film Fund, is scheduled for a special conversation. Meanwhile, Spencer Collantes, vice president of Clockwork—Warner Bros.' specialty film division—will deliver an in-depth case study examining the careful process of re-releasing Ken Russell's controversial 1971 feature, 'The Devils.'

A vital part of the MIFC's mission involves connecting national film industries with international buyers, distributors, and programmers. To this end, the market is honoring Greece as its country of honor while casting a dedicated spotlight on Taiwanese cinema. These focal points underscore the growing international collaboration and cross-border appreciation for cinematic heritage.

The spotlight on Greece arrives as the nation implements an ambitious €750 million initiative titled 'Greece On Screen.' This comprehensive plan aims to support new production and distribution while heavily investing in the preservation, digitization, and restoration of Greece's rich cinematic heritage. Simultaneously, the Taiwan Focus builds upon years of dedicated restoration efforts and international circulation through traditional cinemas, television broadcasts, and physical media.

Ultimately, the convergence of major studios, independent curators, and government-backed preservation initiatives at the MIFC highlights a thriving market. Heritage films are proving to be a resilient and profitable sector of the entertainment industry, operating not just as nostalgic echoes of the past, but as dynamic laboratories for the future of cinema.