Unifrance has revealed an exciting lineup for the 15th edition of Series Mania, set to take place from March 21 to 28. This year’s festival promises to be a spectacular event for both television enthusiasts and industry professionals, featuring a diverse selection of 48 series from 20 countries. Among these, 22 French series will take center stage, showcasing the richness and innovation of French television. The festival not only celebrates creativity but also serves as a platform for professionals to network and explore new opportunities in the global television market.
At the heart of the festival is the Series Mania Forum, the industry component of the event, which will run from March 25 to 27. This year, the forum is expected to welcome over 4,200 professionals from more than 70 countries, making it a melting pot of ideas and collaborations. Unifrance will host the tenth edition of its “Coming Next from France” event on March 25, highlighting five new French series that are poised to make a significant impact on the international market. These series have been carefully selected to demonstrate the diversity and innovation of French scripted television, which continues to gain global recognition.
The five French series featured in “Coming Next from France” offer a glimpse into the wide range of stories and genres that French television has to offer. Kitchen Hustle, produced by CG Cinema, follows three women navigating a toxic and elitist environment in the high-end dining world. Fake, from Have a Good One, tells the story of Victoire, a medical secretary and graphic designer who turns to counterfeiting to save her family from debt. Don’t Know, produced by 3e Œil Story, revolves around a school trip that turns into a nightmare when a young girl disappears. Montmartre, from Banijay’s Authentic Prod, is a 19th-century period drama about a cancan dancer seeking justice for her father’s murder. Lastly, Jailbreakers, produced by Le Méredienne, explores the story of a 17-year-old girl infiltrating a group of inmates planning an escape in a juvenile detention facility. Each of these series offers a unique narrative, highlighting the creativity and depth of French storytelling.
French drama continues to shine on the global stage, with exports reaching €74.5 million ($77.8 million) in 2023, a significant increase from the ten-year average of €54.9 million ($57.3 million). This growth underscores the global appeal of French television, with scripted drama leading the way, accounting for 36.6% of total sales. The success of French series is a testament to the country’s rich storytelling tradition, innovative production techniques, and the ability to craft compelling narratives that resonate with audiences worldwide.
Beyond the screen, Unifrance’s presence at Series Mania is equally impressive. The organization will partner with the Series Mania Forum to host welcome drinks on March 24, setting the stage for a weekend of professional meetings and networking opportunities. Additionally, Unifrance will provide its members with a dedicated space in the Business Lounge, creating a welcoming environment for industry professionals to connect and discuss potential collaborations. These initiatives highlight Unifrance’s commitment to fostering partnerships and supporting the growth of French television on the global stage.
French series will be prominently featured across all sections of the festival, from the Opening and Closing ceremonies to the International Competition, Panorama, and more. The festival’s juries will include esteemed figures from French television and cinema, such as actress Karin Viard and composer Victor Le Masne, adding a touch of star power to the event. With such a diverse and captivating lineup, Series Mania 2025 promises to be a celebration of French television’s continued excellence and its growing influence on the global stage. As the festival approaches, audiences and professionals alike can look forward to a week of inspiring stories, innovative ideas, and meaningful connections that will shape the future of television.
