VERTICALplus was conceived as a think tank for European industry professionals to regularly discuss the prevailing issues that concern our industry in these difficult times for independent cinema. Commissioning editors, heads of film funds, world sales agents, distributors, producers and journalists get together to try and improve our business environment and our professionalism.

These days, the challenges for independent cinema can seem overwhelming and it is therefore all the more important to work out what we want and need and then address those concerns to film funds and TV channels. At the same time, we must examine our own shortcomings and - where necessary - make changes. We want to get rid of the "complaints culture" and the lethargy that it produces and replace them with productivity, innovation, creativity and courage.

Ultimately, the aim is to market our films with both creative and commercial success.   

The VERTICALplus think tank is not a one-off. We aim to gather European independent cinema experts on a regular basis.  

The results of VERTICALplus 1 and VERTICALplus 2 have been published and you can download both the DESSAU MANIFESTO and the ZIETHEN MANIFESTO here (pdf).

Objective: The establishment of a network of professionals who work on constructive solutions to the problems facing the independent European film industry.

Target Audience: Commissioning editors, public funding specialists, world sales agents, distributors, producers, journalists.