Glen Basner highlights the need for a new approach to indie film packaging at TIFF, emphasizing a global strategy.
During the TIFF: The Market panel, Glen Basner, CEO of FilmNation, discussed the pressing challenges facing the indie film sector regarding how films are packaged for streaming platforms. His insights were shared on September 12, 2026, during a discussion on the need for a more comprehensive strategy in film production and financing.
Basner emphasized that a holistic approach is necessary in the current distribution climate, moving beyond merely attaching well-known actors or directors to projects as a means of guaranteeing success. He remarked, "The only problem is we’re building movies for the streaming companies, and it may work great on the streamers, but it’s not the same as building a theatrical proposition."
This indicates that while producing content for digital platforms may be immediately profitable, it does not necessarily cater to the theatrical market, which has distinct requirements and audience expectations.
Additionally, Basner highlighted the importance of creating films that appeal to a global audience. He argued that film buyers should adopt a more inventive approach to packaging by developing stories that could be adapted into series across various platforms. This strategy aims to maximize a film's reach and profitability across different markets, which is particularly vital in an evolving global landscape.
Roeg Sutherland, co-head of the media finance department at CAA, supported Basner's perspective. He indicated that the disconnect between North American preferences and international market demands complicates pre-sales for indie films, making it a challenge for filmmakers to secure necessary funding. Sutherland stressed the importance of starting the packaging process at the script or adaptation stage, rather than focusing primarily on star power.
Sutherland also drew attention to the shifting dynamics of funding within indie film. He noted that the days of easily pre-selling films for up to 80% of their budget during major film festivals are largely over. This change compels agents and filmmakers to adopt increasingly creative and strategic financing methods. Sutherland explained that current financing methods require a cohesive strategy, or what he metaphorically referred to as "playing Lego all day long" to assemble the various pieces of funding needed.
Despite these challenges, Basner expressed optimism regarding the future of theatrical releases, believing that audiences will continue to support films in cinema settings. He acknowledged the fears surrounding artificial intelligence and shortening theatrical windows but remained hopeful about upcoming titles at festivals like TIFF.
Basner stated, “Filmmakers are finding a way not just to get their films made, but to tell their stories from their own unique perspective, and audiences are responding.” This comment underscores his belief in the resilience and adaptability of the indie film community in navigating the complexities of a rapidly changing industry.
The conversation at TIFF underscores a pivotal moment for the indie film sector, as traditional methods of packaging and distribution face scrutiny in favor of innovative and globally aware strategies. As the landscape continues to evolve with the influence of streaming platforms, the adaptability of filmmakers and sales agents will be crucial for sustaining the viability of theatrical releases alongside successful streaming adaptations.
For further insights on the evolving indie landscape, check out our articles on ‘Woman Unknown’ Takes Home Golden Lion at Venice Film Festival and David Oyelowo and Danai Gurira Champion African Filmmaking at TIFF.
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