Chris Bluett

Sales Manager, Cineflix International

Have you seen signs of recovery in Central and Eastern Europe?

The market is certainly in better shape than 18 months ago, and sales have been on the rise since the turn of the year. MipTV gave a real indication that buyers are back on track now, and looking at their end of year and early 2011 schedules.

Have you noticed your business in the region strengthen due to an increase in channels?

We have seen a rise in thematic channels, which works well for Cineflix International, given the range of programming we have to offer. As a result, we have seen a significant rise in revenue across the region across all genres.

How has your business been overall in Central and Eastern Europe (and what territories have been strong in particular)?

Business overall is very good, which is great as the summer months are always slower. Buyers are looking to make selections for their autumn schedules, and have been very proactive since MipTV. Hungary, Poland, Czech Republic and Russia remain the stronger markets for us.

What genres have been the strongest performers from your catalogue in the region?

Our lifestyle programming remains very popular. Home makeover & cooking channels are on the rise and shows like Colin & Justin’s Home Heist, Conviction Kitchen and The Opener cater very well for our buyers. Drama-documentaries are also high on buyers shopping lists. None more than Mayday: Air Crash Disasters. A certain volcano erupting helped boost awareness on this.

What are some of the titles you’re highlighting for DISCOP and why do you think these will be particularly appealing for the buyers?

Cineflix International has just acquired over 150 hours of new programming, as well as continuing to produce its own shows. Our new drama documentary, Nazi Hunters is a great example of the high caliber of programming we produce annually. Nazi Hunters is just one of the new shows Cineflix International will be highlighting at Discop. Pitchin In, The Last 10 Pounds Bootcamp, The Cup Cake Girls, Uberguide and Weird or What are some other titles to keep an eye out for. These titles provide our buyers with a real spread across factual programming and factual entertainment.

Is there anything else that you can share about your plans in the region and/or focus for DISCOP?
The focus at Discop is to ensure all our buyers are up to date with Cineflix International’s portfolio. The aim is to assist our buyers in filling specific slots in their schedules, which can often cause problems, as well as giving them the option to strip programming when needed.