In May, the Berlin Film Festival announced the appointment of Tanja Meissner as the new director of Berlinale Pro*, a position that encompasses leading the European Film Market (EFM), as well as overseeing the Berlinale Co-Production Market, Berlinale Talents (a program for emerging filmmakers), and the World Cinema Fund. Meissner, a German-French dual citizen with over 25 years of experience in the film industry, brings a wealth of expertise to the role. Her previous work at prominent sales agencies like Celluloid Dreams (2000–2007) and Memento Films (2007–2021) equips her with a deep understanding of the complexities and challenges of the global film market. As she steps into this leadership position, Meissner is focused on fostering innovation, collaboration, and sustainability within the industry, particularly at a time when the traditional models of film distribution and production are undergoing significant shifts.
One of Meissner’s key priorities is addressing the economic pressures faced by sales agents, who remain a critical link in the independent film value chain. Recognizing the financial strain on these professionals, Meissner has made it a point to keep costs affordable for participants at the EFM, ensuring that the market remains accessible and viable. “The sales agents are still a very important link in the value chain for independent films, and if the market narrows down too much, it’s beneficial to no one,” she explains. By maintaining last year’s pricing and offering a “hyper-efficient infrastructure,” Meissner aims to support these agents while also providing a platform that enables them to thrive in an increasingly competitive and unpredictable landscape. Her approach reflects a commitment to both economic sustainability and the creative vitality of the independent film sector.
Beyond its role as a trading platform, the EFM has evolved into a vibrant hub for networking and collaboration. Meissner emphasizes the importance of creating opportunities for industry professionals to connect, describing networking as a “powerful tool” that she is eager to enhance. To facilitate this, the EFM offers a range of events, including the Breakfast Club, the Happy Innovation Hour, and a mixer for festival programmers. These gatherings provide a space for producers, financiers, filmmakers, and other stakeholders to exchange ideas, forge partnerships, and explore new opportunities. Meissner also highlights the Co-Production Market as a key venue for collaboration, where industry leaders can meet and discuss projects that have the potential to transcend borders and bridge cultural divides. By fostering these connections, Meissner hopes to strengthen the global film community and create a more inclusive, collaborative environment.
In addition to supporting sales agents and filmmakers, Meissner is committed to expanding the EFM’s reach to include a broader range of industry professionals. One initiative that reflects this vision is the introduction of the Distributor Award, which recognizes the often-undervalued contributions of distributors to the film industry. This year, the award will be presented to Huub Roelvink of Cherry Pickers Film Distribution in the Netherlands. Meissner views distribution as a vital component of the film ecosystem, not only for its commercial impact but also for its role in fostering cultural understanding. “When stories cross borders, it fosters a deeper understanding [between cultures and communities],” she explains. By celebrating the work of distributors, Meissner aims to highlight the importance of making films accessible to diverse audiences and to underscore the industry’s role in promoting cross-cultural exchange.
Another key area of focus for Meissner is innovation, particularly the integration of technology into the filmmaking process. Recognizing that technology is both an enabler and a disruptor, Meissner has established the EFM’s Innovation Hub as a space for producers and filmmakers to explore new tools, business models, and creative approaches. “I want to create relevant offerings for producers who are really progressive and are keen to explore innovation and new business models,” she says. While technology can sometimes feel overwhelming, Meissner believes it is essential for the industry to embrace a “tech-savvy” mindset in order to remain relevant and competitive. Through the Innovation Hub, she hopes to empower filmmakers with the knowledge and resources they need to navigate the rapidly evolving landscape of modern storytelling.
Finally, Meissner’s vision for Berlinale Pro* extends beyond individual initiatives to encompass a broader commitment to career development, knowledge sharing, and community building. She describes the festival as a “multi-perspective platform” that serves all sectors of the industry, from emerging talent to established professionals. One example of this in action is the career trajectory of German filmmaker Nora Fingscheidt, who participated in Berlinale Talents and later saw her film “System Crasher” win the Silver Bear at the festival. Fingscheidt’s success story illustrates the festival’s role as a “springboard” for emerging talent, offering opportunities for growth and collaboration that can have a lasting impact on a filmmaker’s career. By fostering these kinds of synergies, Meissner hopes to create a vibrant, sustainable ecosystem that supports filmmakers at every stage of their journey.
In short, Tanja Meissner’s leadership of Berlinale Pro represents a bold and forward-thinking approach to the challenges and opportunities facing the film industry today. By prioritizing collaboration, innovation, and inclusivity, she is working to ensure that the EFM and its associated programs remain a vital force in the global film landscape. Her efforts to support sales agents, distributors, and filmmakers alike reflect a deep commitment to the art and business of cinema, as well as a vision for a more interconnected and dynamic industry. As Berlinale Pro continues to evolve under her direction, Meissner’s focus on community, innovation, and cultural exchange is poised to leave a lasting impact on the world of film.
