The Ultimate Review of the 2024 American Film Market (AFM) in Las Vegas: A Filmmaker's Perspective
Jan 16, 2025The American Film Market (AFM) is one of the most important events in the film industry, especially when it comes to foreign distribution. After years of being hosted in Santa Monica, this year marked a new chapter with AFM being held in Las Vegas. As a filmmaker and actress with over 30 years of experience, I attended AFM 2024, and I’m here to share my experience, along with three key tips for anyone looking to sell their film at the American Film Market.
Why Las Vegas is the Perfect Venue for AFM 2024
- Everything is Conveniently Located in One Hotel
One of the biggest perks of this year’s AFM being in Las Vegas is that everything is under one roof. In past years, AFM was spread across multiple hotels in Santa Monica, and attendees had to juggle between various venues, theaters, and meeting spaces. But in Vegas, everything takes place at the Palms Casino Resort—offices for buyers and sales agents, the screening rooms, the food court, and accommodations are all housed within the same hotel.
This makes life so much easier. You don’t have to run across town, fight traffic, or deal with the hassle of navigating a sprawling area. You can meet people in the halls, grab a coffee in the food court, and never miss a moment of networking. This was a game changer for me, and I believe it will make a huge difference for other filmmakers and industry professionals who attend future AFMs.
- A More Open and Friendly Atmosphere
Another reason I loved AFM in Las Vegas is the shift in energy. There’s something about leaving Los Angeles and attending a film event in a different city that encourages people to be more open and approachable. In Los Angeles, people often have an "I’m too busy to talk" vibe, but in Vegas, everyone’s a little more relaxed and willing to strike up a conversation. It’s much easier to connect with others here, whether you’re in the elevator, the food court, or the hallway.
This laid-back yet professional atmosphere made it possible to meet so many buyers, sales agents, and fellow filmmakers effortlessly. Even if you haven’t set up meetings in advance, there’s still a real opportunity to network and make valuable connections.
- Affordable and Accessible Food Options
Filmmakers know how expensive things can get when you’re creating a project. At AFM in Vegas, food is easy on the budget, but it also caters to all tastes and preferences. You can grab a quick bite at Panda Express in the food court or indulge in a nice steak dinner at one of the hotel’s fine-dining restaurants. Whether you’re working with a tight budget or celebrating a deal, having a variety of food options within walking distance is a huge plus for AFM attendees.
The fact that food is so accessible and affordable allows filmmakers to focus on what really matters—networking and discussing their projects with potential buyers and partners.
How to Win at the American Film Market: 3 Key Tips
If you're a filmmaker looking to sell your film or get foreign distribution at AFM, here are three essential tips to help you stand out and succeed.
- Register Early and Stay Close to the Action
One of the best ways to maximize your AFM experience is by registering early and securing a full pass. Make sure to stay at the host hotel or a nearby hotel so you’re in the heart of the action. Las Vegas can be distracting with all the entertainment it offers, but when you’re close to the venue, you can make the most of your time.
You’ll be able to meet important buyers, sales agents, and fellow filmmakers at any moment. From the elevator to the food court, AFM attendees are everywhere, and you don’t want to miss a single opportunity to connect.
- Do Your Research and Set Up Meetings in Advance
AFM is all about the connections you make, and one of the most effective ways to do that is by setting up meetings in advance. Once you register for AFM, you’ll get access to Sannando, an online platform that lists all the buyers, sales agents, and production companies attending the event. Use this tool to research who might be interested in your film, and reach out with a professional email.
In your email, briefly introduce yourself, mention the value of your film (e.g., unique cast, awards, star power, etc.), and explain why it’s a great fit for them. Setting up meetings ahead of time ensures that you have a clear agenda and maximize your time at the market.
- Walk the Halls and Be Professional
Even if you haven’t set up meetings in advance, walking the halls of AFM can lead to unexpected opportunities. The market is open, and buyers and sales agents are often in their offices, which you can visit. However, you should always be respectful. Don’t interrupt if they’re in a meeting—just wait for the right moment.
When you do get the chance to speak with them, be professional, concise, and lead with what makes your film stand out. This is your chance to make an impression, and even if they aren’t the right fit, they might refer you to someone who is. Remember, it’s not just about that one meeting; it’s about building relationships for the future.
Final Thoughts on AFM 2024 in Las Vegas
Overall, I had a fantastic experience at AFM 2024 in Las Vegas. The convenience, energy, and accessibility made it a dream for filmmakers. Whether you’re attending for the first time or coming back to the market with new projects, Vegas is the perfect place to sell your film and network with key industry players.
For filmmakers, AFM is a critical platform to get your film seen by foreign buyers, and with these tips, you’ll be better prepared to take advantage of everything the market has to offer. I’m definitely looking forward to coming back next year, and I highly encourage filmmakers to attend.
If you want more advice on how to succeed in the film industry or need help navigating AFM, don’t hesitate to check out my courses and coaching. Together, we can make your film project a reality.
