The Charm of Genre: How Genre Films Travel Across Borders

From horror and thrillers to body-horror and romantic comedies, genre films continue to punch above their weight on the international stage - connecting with audiences, buyers and festival programmers alike.

In this dynamic panel, producers and sales agents share how genre works across territories, why it remains a powerful global sales tool, and what kinds of stories are currently resonating across borders.

Moderated by the BFI’s Vicki Brown, this session offers insight into the commercial and creative strategies behind getting genre films made - and sold.

📍 Recorded live at the UK Pavilion during the 2025 Cannes Film Festival

Speakers:

TODD BROWN | Head of International Acquisitions
XYZ

MARIA EKERHOVD | Producer
Mer Film

KATARZYNA SINIARSKA | Head of Sales
New Europe Film Sales

OLIVER KASSMAN | Producer
Escape Plan Productions

Moderator:

VICKI BROWN | Snr Executive, Sales & Distribution
BFI