VideoAge chatted with Peter Iacono of Los Angeles-based Lionsgate and Susan Bender of New York-based Bender Media Services for some insight into what the U.S. crowd expects from NATPE 2011.
VideoAge International: Is Miami Beach a better venue for NATPE and why?
Peter Iacono: Las Vegas and Miami are both excellent venues for NATPE. A bit of variety is always fun and who wouldn’t want to be in Miami in January? Also, Miami is a bit easier a destination for European and Latin clients.
Susan Bender: Having NATPE in Miami should greatly enhance attendance for NATPE. Not only is the weather at this time of year a great reason for clients from around the world to come to Miami Beach, but from my personal perspective, Miami is a second home for many of my Latin American clients and makes for easy travel.
VAI: In your view, is NATPE still a vital market?
Peter Iacono: Absolutely!
Susan Bender: Absolutely!
VAI: What new product/titles will you be bringing to NATPE?
Peter Iacono: And ruin the surprise? Stay tuned!
VAI: Is your NATPE product targeted to Latins, or are you just taking your new releases?
Peter Iacono: Our entire catalogue will be well represented at NATPE. We’ll have programming for all markets, and yes, Pantelion Films, our sister company focused on the Latin market, will be well represented.
Susan Bender: We will predominantly be doing business in Latin America, although we do have a couple of programs that we offer on an international basis.
VAI: In terms of ROI (return of investment) is NATPE effective?
Peter Iacono: Lionsgate and all of our sister companies are collectively taking lots and lots of space so we absolutely believe in this market.
VAI: How does NATPE measure up to other markets for your company? Is it the most important, second most important, etc.?
Susan Bender: For Bender Media Services, NATPE is the most important market.
VAI: What are your goals/expectations for the market?
Susan Bender: My primary goal is naturally to sell. We have brand new films, new documentaries, and new animation that we will be offering at the market. Also, this year we have decided to exhibit from the convention floor instead of the suites. We are hoping this new location will bring our company even more visibility and attract new customers that might be passing by.
