The Format People to Curate MIPFormats

The international formats consultancy group The Format People has been appointed to helm this year’s MIPFormats.

A showcase for global entertainment and factual-entertainment formats, MIPFormats will take place in Cannes from March 28 to 29, ahead of MIPTV. The Format People, which was established in 2009 by CEO Michel Rodrigue and CCO Justin Scroggie, is working with organizers Reed MIDEM to bring a fresh look to the schedule and new faces to the podium.

Rodrigue said: “The formats business continues to evolve and disrupt. It is essential we find new ways to talk about our industry, and new voices to reflect the changing demographics of content creators and viewers. We are excited Reed MIDEM has given The Format People the opportunity to make this happen.”

Scroggie added: “Ideas remain at the heart of our industry. The challenge for today’s format creators is to develop original content that uses the form and function of new technology to deliver compelling narratives that repurpose genres, drive the action, tell a story and find an audience. MIPFormats 2020 will help delegates do both.”

Lucy Smith, deputy director of Reed MIDEM’s TV division, commented: “Successfully translating global content for local audiences is the lifeblood of the international TV industry and is why formats play such a prominent role at all our international markets. Michel and Justin’s expertise and involvement in MIPFormats will bring new thinking, new faces and a fresh focus on this fast-growing genre. MIPTV is the biggest calendar event for producers and buyers of formats and we have underlined our commitment to them this year with the introduction of a brand new program extended into the week with formats showcases offering an exclusive first look at the next generation of breakthrough shows, a curated list of proven talented and innovative new format producers from all over the world, and ‘matching sessions’ offering a unique opportunity to meet new partners and unlock business opportunities in key markets.”