Beta takes 'Heart' from EFM success
Company wraps slew of deals at confab
The story of a child soldier in Eritrea's war of independence, "Heart of Fire" sold to Ocean Film in France, Bim Distribuzione in Italy and Seven Films in Greece. Pic is loosely based on the autobiography of author Senait Mehari.
Falorni and producer Andreas Bareiss were forced to go on the offensive during the fest, pointing out that the politically sensitive subject of child soldiers had become a serious source of contention with the Eritrean government, which has denied their very existence in its war with Ethiopia.
Eritrean authorities blocked the filmmakers from shooting in Eritrea, forcing them to shoot in Kenya instead.
Beta also made several deals on Sundance screener "Absurdistan," Veit Helmer's modern-day fairy tale set in a remote village between Eastern Europe and Western Asia. Pic went to Surreal Films in France, Plan2Real in Russia and the C.I.S. territories, Providence Films in Brazil and Seven Films in Greece.
EFM organizers have reported a record turnout for last week's film bazaar, including the number of sellers, exhibitors and industry professionals who attended.
Some 430 companies had booths in the Martin Gropius Bau and the EFM Exhibitor Offices, with an additional 60 based in local hotels. Some 1,073 international buyers were on hand, up 3% on last year.
The EFM registered a rise of 10% among industry attendees, with about 6,400 accredited industryites taking part in the event, which presented 1,100 screenings. Some 12,000 daily visitors visited the mart on the first weekend.
"Once again the market has exceeded our expectations," said EFM director Beki Probst.
