AFM Survival Guide

Its that time of year again. Time to head out to Santa Monica, California and put your schmooze hat on. What I am rambling about is the American Film Market has arrived. Over 400 production companies. Over 8000 industry pros to network with. Bring your A game because if you don’t you will be wasting your time.

Where is the AFM? AFM command central is at Loews Hotel in Santa Monica. Its a great place and on a beautiful day in Southern Cal its wonderful to be there.  Go out to the pool deck and enjoy the atmosphere. Don’t expect to park there however. Parking is reserved for the AFM exhibitors.

Where to park? There are lots of parking in the nearby hotels and a few lots. I like to park at Shutters on the Beach. Its about $26 but its close enough to walk and a great place to have drinks after the market is closed. The bar in Shutters gets a good crowd to network with.

I like to go on the second half of the market unless I have a completed product to show. The sales companies are more welcome to talk to you when they aren’t in a sales frenzy. Saturday to Wednesday are best.

Where to eat? For Pete’s sake do not eat at Loews. Not only is it expensive but not too tasty. Within walking distance check out: Sushi Roku, Ivy at the Shore, Broadway Deli, iCugini.

Here is some info on the conferences. They usually are pretty good.

Ok enjoy your time and sell your movie or get financing! Above all else make as many connections as you can.

P.S. If this helps you please DIGG it!