The Fifth Hanoi Project Market officially opened on November 7 at Daewoo Hotel, marking the beginning of the 2024 Hanoi International Film Festival (HANIFF 2024).

Delegates and participants attend the launching of the Project Market program on November 7. Photo: Anh Vu/The Hanoi Times

Running until November 11, this event is a platform for participating projects to gain insights from professional filmmakers and some of the world’s most advanced film industries.

Throughout the five-day program, producers and directors will have the chance to pitch their film projects to investors and industry experts, receiving feedback to refine their works, while young and independent filmmakers will be able to seek international finances for their projects.

Through the Project Market, Vietnam expects to introduce its filmographic industry to the world, connecting and collaborating local film businesses with international partners.

This year, the program has received nearly 70 entries from over 20 countries and territories, the highest number to date, with projects showcasing impressive diversity and quality.

Out of these, eight outstanding projects have been selected for awards, with the first prize winner set to receive a reward of VND135 million (US$5,320). The awards ceremony will take place during the closing of HANIFF 2024 on the evening of November 11.

“We would also like to extend our gratitude to the French Embassy, the Institut Français in Vietnam, the Delegation of the European Union to Vietnam, and BHD Company & Vietnam Media, for their support,” said Vi Kien Thanh, Director of the Cinema Department under the Ministry of Culture, Sports, and Tourism.

The program represents a strong commitment to nurturing new projects and scripts and encouraging young Vietnamese filmmakers to engage with contemporary trends and connect with international colleagues and investors, he added.

Noting the fact that France and Vietnam became comprehensive partners one month ago during a visit by General Secretary To Lam, also serving as the State President of Vietnam at the time, cultural industries and creative sectors hold an important role, said the French Ambassador to Vietnam Olivier Brochet.

The Ambassador said that today’s event is one of the first concrete projects under this enhanced partnership, reflecting the collaborative spirit championed by the two governments.

He affirmed that the French Embassy remains committed to supporting creative cinematic initiatives in Vietnam and Asia.

Nguyen Phan Quang Binh, a judge of the program, hoped that the program would be a key milestone for filmmakers, bringing them closer to realizing their dreams of telling unique and captivating stories.

Thibaut Bracq, another judge, said that the jury looks forward to hearing the project presentations and discovering the best of them.

This is a new era for Asian cinema, as many non-Hollywood films are achieving high box office success globally, he said.

Bracq highlighted that many of the highest-grossing films come from emerging markets like Thailand and Indonesia, with Vietnamese and other Asian films winning major awards at prestigious festivals.

This event, he continued, is an unprecedented opportunity for Asian filmmakers to share their perspectives and works with global audiences.

Bracq expressed confidence that the 2024 Project Market would be a successful and memorable season for both domestic and international filmmakers and guests.