After a seven-year tenure as president of France’s leading commercial network, TF1 Group, Gilles Pelisson has taken center stage as the new president of Unifrance. Known for his low-key approach, Pelisson is now making waves in promoting French film and TV. Recently, at the Rendez-Vous showcase in Paris, he impressed industry professionals and French stars alike with his expertise and conviction.
A Week of Recognition
During the Rendez-Vous, Pelisson presented awards and recognition to prominent figures in the film industry. He awarded the French Film Award to Melvil Poupaud for his performance in “By the Grace of God” and bestowed the best international co-production prize to Turkish director Nuri Bilge Ceylan. The event attracted more than 40 film sales companies and over 450 international distributors, solidifying its significance in the industry.
Experience in Film and TV
Although Pelisson may not consider himself a cinephile, his previous involvement in the film and TV world at a macro level is undeniable. While leading TF1, the group acquired Newen, one of France’s largest TV production and distribution studios, as well as Blue Spirit, an animation studio. Pelisson was also instrumental in co-producing movies for TF1’s free-to-air window.
Transition and Challenges
Pelisson’s arrival at Unifrance coincides with a time of transition for the French film industry. Despite a 33% increase in local box office revenue and a 38.5% surge in global admissions, the export figures are down 19% compared to pre-COVID levels. However, Pelisson argues that this does not reflect the true international success of French films, as many of the hits were available on streaming services like Netflix, which does not release figures. Including these films, the number of admissions could potentially surpass 40 million.
French Movies’ International Appeal
Pelisson highlights the international appeal of French movies, ranging from animated films like “Miraculous” and “Pattie et la colère de Poséidon” to action adventures like “The Three Musketeers: D’Artagnan” and comedies such as “Asterix and Obelix: The Middle Kingdom.” Art-house films like Justine Triet’s “Anatomy of a Fall” and Maiwenn’s “Jeanne du Barry” have also garnered attention, with the former receiving five Oscar nominations.
Future Plans and Industry Issues
While Pelisson’s role at Unifrance is mainly non-operational, he will be working closely with Managing Director Daniela Elstner on pressing issues facing the entertainment industry. These include AI, the need for greater transparency in viewing figures from streaming services, and the preservation of geo-blocking rights in Europe to support the independent film industry. Despite the growing influence of streaming services, Pelisson emphasizes the continued importance of sales agents in representing independent movies and securing international distribution.
Looking ahead, Unifrance aims to expand its scope beyond European buyers, as evidenced by the recent inclusion of South American distributors at the Rendez-Vous.
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