Fantastic Pavilion Returns to Cannes With New Regionally-Focused Initiatives and Expanding Global Vision (EXCLUSIVE)

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Once again, The Amazing Pavilion – the heart of genre cinema in Cannes – is set to return for its third installment at this year’s Marché du Film. Packed with an ambitious schedule, it underscores its position as the go-to place for professionals in horror, sci-fi, and fantasy genres. Since its launch in 2023, the Pavilion has rapidly developed into a crucial meeting point for genre creators and enthusiasts. The year 2025 promises to be its most extensive edition yet.

Kicking off this year’s events is the debut of Fantastic Focus, an annual initiative highlighting various countries or regions. For its first installation, the Pavilion is honoring Mexico’s significant influence in film genres through a comprehensive program. This program encompasses a Mexican film in the Fantastic Galas selection, four Mexican projects showcased at the exclusive Round Robin event, two works-in-progress and two potential remake opportunities. Moreover, a notable group of Mexican filmmakers and producers, including Gigi Saul Guerrero, Javier Colinas, Sofia Garza-Barba, and Alex Kahuam, will be present throughout the Pavilion’s activities to represent Mexico.

One key feature is the enlarged Fantastic Round Robin, an effective networking tool that brings together selected genre projects with prominent sales agents and distributors. In 2023, eight projects will be showcased in a private, focused setup to boost visibility, funding possibilities, and global distribution prospects—making it a potential key player in future genre industry negotiations.

Additionally, the IP Remake Showcase is set to return, a joint venture between Globalgate and Morbido Group. This time around, ten international productions will be presented for potential remake, with the unveiling of The Turkish Coffee Table teaser being the first project under the new Morbidogate label from the 2024 showcase.

Each year, I eagerly anticipate the Fantastic Galas at The Pavilion, where they showcase six exceptional films hailing from different corners of the world. These films offer unique, cutting-edge narratives that resonate with both industry insiders and global audiences alike. Furthermore, three thought-provoking discussions will delve into crucial genre film matters. We’ll explore the explosive growth of the Latin American market, dissect the financial strategies behind successful genre productions, and even join forces with Yes She Cannes for a panel focusing on women’s rising influence in creating and leading genre cinema.

In 2024, the Pavilion at Cannes saw a surge in popularity, hosting more than 2,600 guests. Attendees included festival representatives from 39 different events, 22 production companies, and 15 sales agents, who found it an ideal base for business and creative inspiration. The Pavilion’s expansion shows no signs of abating, as it continues to attract events like the beloved Fantastic Night party, videogame presentations, networking receptions with cocktails, and the highly acclaimed Fantastic Latido Award.

Looking back at the swift growth of The Pavilion, Pablo Guisa Koestinger, its founder and CEO of Morbido Group, shared his thoughts: “What started as a vision in 2023 has evolved into a bustling center—a lively meeting place where the independent cinema community gathers to network, collaborate, and champion filmmaking. As one team, we generate, publicize, distribute, and seek out more robust business prospects. I am immensely proud of what we’ve accomplished so far, but for me, this is merely the start.

The Fantastic Pavilion continues to thrive, with its innovative ventures expanding globally and strengthening its impact. It’s poised and eager to influence the evolution of genre films, fostering exciting links one step at a time.

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2025-04-21 16:16