9 Story’s Alix Wiseman to Deliver Keynote at MAF

Manchester Animation Festival (MAF), supported by Lenovo, has lined up a keynote from Alix Wiseman, senior VP of distribution and acquisition at 9 Story Media Group, for its annual Animation Nation Forum.

Taking place on November 14, the keynote will see Wiseman use her 25-plus years of experience in the international media landscape to offer unique insights into international distribution, content partnerships and the growing opportunities in animation today.

At 9 Story Media Group, Wiseman oversees global sales operations and sources third-party content, all while securing financing for the company’s new IPs. Her career has spanned multiple continents and formats, giving her a unique insight into the industry.

Wiseman’s keynote is part of Animation Nation Forum’s slate of panels and discussion opportunities, this year with a focus on opportunity in the face of the constrictions that traditional media routes are facing. Rather than using a “survive to ’25” mindset, Animation Nation Forum is inviting the industry to look beyond the current challenges and imagine a future that lies ahead. The 2024 edition will spotlight new pathways emerging through alternative distribution, fresh business models and publication opportunities.

“It’s a real honor to speak at the Animation Nation Forum and to engage with the creative community on some of the pressing issues we face in the world of animation right now,” Wiseman said. “I look forward to discussing both the challenges of financing productions in the current climate as well as the new opportunities we can explore as we navigate the changing landscape.”

The Animation Nation Forum will begin with a breakfast hosted by Kate O’Connor, executive chair of Animation UK, who will share a few words on why the day is crucial for the industry’s vitality and future growth. Participants will then be able to head to “In the Frame: New Opportunities in Animation,” which will aim to present practical solutions to some of the issues facing the animation industry today. Hosted by Jo Redfern, it will feature panel with Jiella Esmat (8 Lions), Richard Chaney (Team Jay, Piranah Bar) and Jon Mason (Jollywise).

Following that, “Collaborating Across Continents: The Future of International Co-Production” will explore how international co-productions are shaping the animation industry. Experts will discuss the benefits and challenges of cross-border collaborations.

Then, the “State of the Animation Nation” roundtable discussion will take place. With a panel of Charlotte Bavasso (Nexus), Tanya J Scott (indie director), Kate O’Connor (Animation UK) and Sueann Rochester (Wild Child Animation), the roundtable will see industry leaders answer a wide range of hard-hitting questions and reflect on the challenges and triumphs that the industry has been subject to and what may lay ahead.

New for the 2024 Animation Nation Forum is ANF Connect, which will run throughout the day and allows participants to book 15-minute meetings with industry leaders throughout the day.

Animation Nation Forum will conclude with a drinks reception hosted by King Banana.

Alongside the Forum, the Manchester Animation Festival Marketplace will showcase stands from leading companies and portfolio review opportunities for creatives wishing to gain insight and feedback from studios, offering further networking and business opportunities.

Manchester Animation Festival is presented with the support of Lenovo, Higher Education Partner University of Salford, Festival Partner HOME, Funder Visit Britain, Festival Patrons Adult Swim, BBC Children’s & Education, BBC Studios, Blue Zoo, Epic Games, Maxon, Moho, Netflix and Hotel Partner Maldron Hotels. The 2024 edition is running from November 10 to 14. Animation Nation Forum will take place on the last day, November 14.

“We’re thrilled to have Lenovo join Manchester Animation Festival 2024 as our principal supporter,” noted Steve Henderson, director of Manchester Animation Festival. “Their presence in the animation space aligns perfectly with our mission, and their backing is invaluable in helping us continue to champion the creative work that makes MAF the must attend event on the U.K. animation calendar.”