EFM Frontières Focus: European Film Market and Montreal’s Frontières Market Launch New Genre Collaboration for 2026

The European Film Market (EFM) announces an exciting new partnership with Frontières, the Montreal-based international genre co-production market, organised by Fantasia International Film Festival, for a special Work-in-Progress and In-Production showcase during EFM 2026.

Launching under the banner EFM Frontières Focus, this new initiative will spotlight bold, innovative international genre filmmaking by presenting five carefully selected projects in advanced stages of financing, production or early post-production. EFM Frontières Focus will take place during the 2026 Berlinale, in February, and aims to connect standout genre works with sales agents, distributors, and festival programmers.

EFM Frontières Focus will elevate genre projects on the world stage and shine a spotlight on the depth, range, and artistry of genre cinema. From psychological thrillers to horror, sci-fi, fantasy, and hybrid forms, this platform is committed to challenging outdated notions of the genre and spotlighting the creative force behind it.

The presentation will consist of a Work-in-Progress and In-Production pitching session of films ready for the fall markets in 2026, seeking sales agents or completion funding. Filmmakers from the selected projects will pitch their work directly to the industry. Exclusive networking events tailored to the genre community will complement the programme, providing unique opportunities for business and collaboration in a focused, dynamic setting.

Submissions for eligible projects will open on August 15 and close on November 13, 2025.

Detailed information on the submission process and participation requirements is available on the Frontières website.

Tanja Meissner, Director Berlinale Pro*:
“Genre filmmaking is enjoying a remarkable surge in creativity and visibility, attracting leading creative voices, top talent and bigger budgets, and EFM Frontières Focus will place it firmly in the spotlight. This exciting collaboration will open up new opportunities for creators, producers, and industry professionals, and is a natural extension of our shared commitment to bold storytelling and innovation in cinema. Annick Mahnert and her team have consistently championed daring, visionary work, curating projects that push the boundaries. Their unique perspective has enriched the global genre market with stories that are as original as they are powerful. We’re truly pleased to have them on board for this new chapter.”

Annick Mahnert, Executive Director Frontières:
"Frontières is excited to partner with the European Film Market (EFM) on this new initiative, creating a dynamic space for films in production and post-production to find sales and distribution opportunities. We’re proud to bring our genre-driven perspective to one of the industry’s most influential marketplaces"