AFM Returns to Los Angeles for 2025 Edition after Las Vegas Experiment Falls Flat
The American Film Market (AFM) is making a triumphant return to Los Angeles for its 2025 edition, following a poorly received stint in Las Vegas. the event, organized by the Self-reliant Film & Television Alliance (IFTA), will take place from November 11 to 16 at the newly renovated Fairmont Century Plaza in Century City, just beside Beverly Hills.
“Our return to LA holds special significance in the aftermath of the recent devastating fires,” said Jean M. Prewitt and Clay Epstein, the CEO and Chairperson of IFTA, respectively. “It will be heartening to gather as colleagues here once again, where AFM started, and in doing so to take part in the rebuilding of the city that is a vital hub of our industry.”
The decision to move back to Los Angeles comes after widespread criticism of the 2024 event, which was held at the Palms Casino off the Vegas Strip. Many global film buyers and sellers complained about the 24-hour noise and the surreal, off-putting atmosphere, which felt far removed from the heart of the film business in LA.The Fairmont Century Plaza promises to be a more fitting venue. “It is ideally situated just minutes from Beverly Hills,West Hollywood,and Westwood and next door to the AMC Century City 15 for screenings,” the IFTA statement noted. “Newly renovated, the Fairmont is a perfect blend of prestige, accessibility, amenities, and pricing consistent with recent years.”
This marks the third relocation in as many years for AFM. The event was forced to leave its longtime home at Santa Monica’s Loews Hotel in 2023, moving to the less-than-ideal Le Méridien Delfina before the ill-fated Vegas experiment.
“Yoru feedback has underscored the importance of AFM as a gathering space and of Los Angeles as the optimal location,” IFTA added. “The Fairmont offers the location that best responds to your call for an elegant setting that maximizes convenience and encourages productivity.”
Details about AFM’s 2025 plans and agenda are expected to be announced soon.
| Key Details | Facts |
|————————————-|———————————————————————————|
| Event | American Film Market (AFM) 2025 |
| Dates | November 11–16, 2025 |
| Location | Fairmont Century Plaza, Century City, Los Angeles |
| Organizer | Independent Film & Television Alliance (IFTA) |
| Previous Location | Palms casino, las Vegas (2024) |
| Significance | Return to LA after industry outcry over Vegas venue |
The return to Los angeles is not just a logistical decision but a symbolic one, reaffirming the city’s central role in the global film industry. As AFM prepares to reunite the industry in its original home, the event promises to be a cornerstone of both business and community rebuilding efforts.
AFM’s Return to Los Angeles: A Symbolic reunion for the Film Industry
Table of Contents
After a tumultuous stint in Las Vegas, the American Film Market (AFM) is making its much-anticipated return to Los Angeles for its 2025 edition. The move back to the heart of the global film industry comes after widespread criticism of the 2024 event held at the Palms Casino in Vegas. To discuss the significance of this decision, World Today News Senior Editor sarah Mitchell sits down with industry expert and film historian, Dr. Jonathan Hayes.
The Decision to Return to Los Angeles
Sarah Mitchell: Dr.hayes, AFM’s return to Los Angeles has been described as both a logistical and symbolic decision. What dose this move signify for the film industry?
Dr. Jonathan Hayes: The return to Los Angeles is more than just a change of venue—it’s a reaffirmation of LA’s central role in the global film industry. Los Angeles is where AFM began, and it’s the heart of the film business. The move back symbolizes a recommitment to the industry’s roots and a recognition that LA provides the ideal ecosystem for networking, deal-making, and creativity. The Fairmont Century Plaza, with its accessibility and prestige, offers a fitting backdrop for this reunion.
The Las Vegas Experiment and Industry Feedback
Sarah Mitchell: The 2024 event in Las Vegas was met with considerable criticism. what were the main issues, and how did this feedback influence the decision to return to Los Angeles?
Dr. Jonathan Hayes: The Las Vegas experiment was, unfortunately, a misstep. The Palms Casino posed several challenges. Attendees complained about the 24-hour noise and the disconnect from the film industry’s core. Las Vegas, while vibrant, lacks the film-centric environment that Los Angeles offers. The IFTA listened to the feedback, which underscored the importance of having AFM in a location that feels like home for industry professionals. The move back to LA is a direct response to that feedback.
The Significance of the Fairmont Century Plaza
Sarah Mitchell: Why was the Fairmont Century Plaza chosen for AFM 2025? What makes it an ideal venue?
Dr. Jonathan Hayes: The Fairmont Century Plaza is a perfect blend of prestige, accessibility, and amenities. Its location in Century City is minutes away from beverly Hills, West Hollywood, and Westwood, making it convenient for attendees. additionally, the venue’s renovation ensures it meets the high standards expected for such a meaningful event. The proximity to the AMC Century City 15 for screenings further enhances its appeal. It’s a venue that encourages productivity while maintaining an elegant atmosphere.
AFM’s Role in Rebuilding Los Angeles
Sarah Mitchell: With the recent challenges los Angeles has faced, including devastating fires, how does AFM’s return contribute to the city’s rebuilding efforts?
Dr. Jonathan Hayes: AFM’s return is not just about the film industry—it’s about the community. Los Angeles has faced significant setbacks, and having AFM back in the city is a vote of confidence in its resilience. The event will bring together industry professionals from around the world, fostering connections and collaborations that extend beyond the market itself. It’s a chance to support local businesses, rebuild networks, and reaffirm LA’s status as a global hub for entertainment.
looking Ahead to AFM 2025
Sarah Mitchell: What can attendees expect from AFM 2025, and what does this mean for the future of the event?
Dr. Jonathan Hayes: AFM 2025 promises to be a cornerstone event for the industry. With the return to Los Angeles, attendees can expect a more focused and productive experience. The Fairmont Century Plaza’s amenities and location will facilitate meaningful interactions and deal-making. This move also signals a renewed commitment to the event’s core mission: bringing the global film community together in a setting that enhances creativity and business. It’s an exciting time for the industry,and AFM’s return to LA is a significant step forward.
Conclusion
AFM’s return to Los Angeles for the 2025 edition marks a pivotal moment for the film industry. After a challenging year in Las Vegas, the move back to LA symbolizes a recommitment to the industry’s roots and a recognition of the city’s central role in global entertainment. with the newly renovated Fairmont Century Plaza as the venue, AFM 2025 promises to be a transformative event for attendees and a beacon of hope for Los Angeles as it continues to rebuild and thrive.