Prime Highlights-
- Asian film companies reported strong international buyer interest and active deal discussions at Cannes.
- Chinese film Dear Yougained global attention after becoming a commercial success in China.
Key Facts-
- Dear Youearned around $75 million in China within 18 days of release.
- Cannes Marché du Film is one of the world’s largest international film business and distribution markets.
Background-
Film companies from Southeast Asia and East Asia reported strong business activity and growing international buyer interest at this year’s Cannes Marché du Film, as regional studios expanded global distribution opportunities for commercial and independent titles.
Vietnam-based Skyline Media drew strong attention for The Scourge, a film based on a popular Vietnamese video game. Founder Hang Trinh said the market helped the company connect with Western distributors and strengthen relationships with existing Asia-Pacific partners. The company also used the event to expand its international network despite rising travel and participation costs.
China’s Beijing Hugoeast Media received a strong response for Dear You, a Teochew-language family drama that attracted nearly 50 international buyers and festival programmers during its market screening. The film has emerged as a major commercial success in China, earning around $75 million within 18 days of release.
The company’s international sales team said the film’s box office performance increased buyer interest during Cannes, with multiple distribution discussions taking place after the screening. The company expects to close several international deals following the market event.
Thailand-based M Studio also reported rising overseas demand for Thai commercial cinema, particularly horror films with franchise value and strong production quality. The company received a positive response for Death Whisperer: Saming The Werebeast and the upcoming horror title Confessions Of A Shaman.
Executives said buyers from Europe, North America and Latin America are increasingly looking for commercially strong Asian films with culturally distinct stories for theatrical release and streaming platforms.
Industry participants added that despite lower attendance and economic uncertainty, Cannes remained an important marketplace for international film business and partnership expansion.
