Berlinale Pro Appoints Tanja Meissner as Director
Berlin, May - The Berlin Film Festival has appointed Tanja Meissner as Director of Berlinale Pro, a role encompassing the European Film Market (EFM), Berlinale Co-Production Market, Berlinale Talents, and World Cinema Fund.
Meissner, a German-French citizen, brings over 25 years of film industry experience. Her previous roles include positions at leading sales agencies Celluloid Dreams (2000-2007) and Memento Films (2007-2021).
As EFM Director, Meissner faces challenges due to economic pressures on sales agents. "Sales agents remain a crucial link for independent films," she says. "Narrowing the market benefits no one, so we're mindful of their cost sensitivities and have maintained previous price levels to support them."
She emphasizes the EFM's role in providing an affordable and efficient platform for sales agents.
In addition to its trading functions, the EFM fosters networking opportunities through events such as the Breakfast Club, Happy Innovation Hour, and Co-Production Market. Meissner aims to expand the EFM's reach by creating a Distributor Award to recognize the social and commercial contributions of distribution.
Berlinale Pro's mandate also includes career development and innovation. The Innovation Hub offers initiatives for producers exploring new business models and technology. Meissner believes in the power of collaboration and knowledge sharing within the film industry.
Series remain a focus for Berlinale Series Market Selects, now in its 11th year. Meissner acknowledges the convergence of film and series production and the importance of markets recognizing this trend.
Tuttle and Meissner emphasize the close connection between Berlinale Pro and the festival. Initiatives like Berlinale Talents and Script Station have supported the careers of notable filmmakers, such as Nora Fingscheidt and Carla Simón.
Meissner's appointment underscores Berlinale Pro's commitment to serving all sectors of the film industry, fostering innovation, and supporting emerging filmmakers.