The event opened with panels that provided deeper insight into key industry topics. The panel “The Power of Casting in TV Formats” brought together experts who emphasised that the quality selection of actors and presenters significantly affects the success of a format.
Larry Bass, founder and CEO of ShinAwiL Productions, shared tips on surviving the challenging year 2025, noting that global access to content is necessary for success: “Content is global, so you have to think globally to be competitive.” Lee Hobbs of Warner Bros Discovery underlined the key role of diversity and inclusion: “As a global media giant, our mission is to ensure the representation of the entire planet, making the way easier for smaller, local productions.”
Among the keynote speakers was John Altman, an award-winning composer known for his work on films such as Titanic and Monty Python’s Life of Brian. In his MasterClass workshop, he shared his experiences on the importance of collaboration in creating music for media: “Writing music for film and television requires adapting to the vision of the director, editor, and other creative participants. The key to success is understanding the artistic and business side of the process.”
The highlight of the event was the presentation of the prestigious NEM awards. Winners in the main categories included:
- Best project in the pre-development phase (Scripted Feature-Length Film): Mileva: Frau Einstein (Selena Stanković).
- Best documentary project: Underneath the Waves (Timea Huszár and Daniel Washington).
- Council of Europe Award for Co-Production Development: Imperial Vampire Committee (Joyrider Kft.).
- Best Completed TV Series in the CEE Region: Extractors (Keshet International/Voyo).
The panel “State of Play in the CEE vs. High-Production Countries” provided interesting insights into how countries with smaller budgets can leverage their cultural heritage to create content that resonates with domestic and international audiences. Panels on strategic partnerships and project financing also provided practical advice on attracting investors and successfully managing budgets.
Of particular interest was the Script Surgery workshop, which enabled a detailed analysis of projects in the development phase. Participants had the opportunity for professional growth and better market preparation.
