Agora: Fostering Global Film Connections Amidst Chaos

The Thessaloniki Intl. Film Festival's industry program, Agora, under new head Thanos Stavropoulos, is committed to fostering the growth of local and regional film industries. Its mission is to connect filmmakers and their projects with global partners, a goal that remains steadfast despite significant political, social, and economic headwinds. The program aims to build bridges and create a collaborative environment crucial for the European film industry's vitality.

Agora continues to evolve, with its conversation series now open to all festivalgoers, enhancing engagement beyond industry professionals. A dedicated decompression room, introduced last year, will be complemented by discussions on resolving conflicts in creative collaborations. Furthermore, a dedicated TV-focused session, launched in 2022, has expanded and now features masterclasses and discussions on the future of Greek scripted television and international co-production.

This year marks a pivotal moment for Greek TV creators, coinciding with the signing of a historic European Convention supporting independent series co-production. Agora plans to leverage this momentum by launching a regional pitching platform for screenwriters, aiming to provide greater visibility and opportunities for regional talent. Notable Agora alumni films are showcasing at the festival, underscoring the program's success in nurturing talent and projects from Southeast Europe, the Mediterranean, and the Black Sea region. The Thessaloniki Film Festival runs from November 5 to 15.