Top Speakers confirmed
1. August 2025
EXPLORER KONFERENZ, as part of the FILMFEST HAMBURG INDUSTRY DAYS, presents its first round of high-profile speakers. Adolescence producer Peter Carlton, Wu-Tang Clan manager Eva Ries, and other leading industry professionals will take the stage on October 2 to explore current developments in artificial intelligence, business models, and cross-industry innovation. The packed program also includes case studies from the film and television industries and is co-curated for the first time by French producer Jennifer Sabbah-Immagine.
Fabian Massah, Head of Industry, says: “The EXPLORER KONFERENZ is where key decision-makers in the international media industry come together to shape the future of production for cinema, TV, and streaming. It’s a place to connect, get inspired, and think beyond conventional frameworks. The conference has become a fixture on the B2B calendar. In 2025, the program – co-curated by Jennifer Sabbah-Immagine – once again raises the bar: with outstanding speakers, cutting-edge insights into what drives our industry forward, and powerful networking opportunities with around 1,500 accredited professionals during the all-new FILMFEST HAMBURG INDUSTRY DAYS.”
Adolescence producer Peter Carlton will speak about his hit Netflix series and discuss the practicalities and evolving frameworks for successful long-term co-productions with the UK, alongside national and international producers. Music manager Eva Ries, whose career has shaped the creative industries across continents – from Nirvana to Wu-Tang Clan – will share insights from decades in international artist management. Her session explores the increasing convergence of music and film, new business models, and the potential of cross-industry innovation. A closer look at equity investment models, financing strategies, and revenue waterfalls will be provided by Marie Garrett (SVP Sales & Acquisitions, XYZ Films), as well as European co-production experts Isabell Wiegand and Sarah Nagel (in between film).
New Co-Curator: Jennifer Sabbah-Immagine
Jennifer Sabbah-Immagine joins the EXPLORER KONFERENZ as a co-curator for the first time. With over 20 years of experience in key roles across the international film industry, Sabbah-Immagine focuses on international co-productions. She produces at Big Sister – including Mariner of the Mountains, which premiered in Cannes – and co-founded the consulting agency Scale & Scope. She also works as an independent strategy and legal advisor for international markets, workshops, and institutions.
Jennifer Sabbah-Immagine: “It’s an honour to co-curate the EXPLORER KONFERENZ with Fabian Massah. This unique event in our industry invites us to think beyond boundaries, reflect on our practices, and embrace innovation, whether artistic, financial, or existential. We’ve shaped a program that fosters deep introspection, bold creative imagination, and open-hearted exchange among participants. Together, we hope to spark a dialogue that not only opens new pathways forward, but also expands how we see our industry and our place within it.“
About EXPLORER KONFERENZ
The EXPLORER KONFERENZ, part of the FILMFEST HAMBURG INDUSTRY DAYS, offers current insights into technology and innovation in film, streaming, and TV production – presented by inspiring national and international speakers. This annual industry event for the film and media sector is organized by FILMFEST HAMBURG in partnership with PROG Producers of Germany and MOIN Film Fund Hamburg Schleswig-Holstein. Accreditations are open now. Participation in the EXPLORER KONFERENZ is available to industry professionals attending the FILMFEST HAMBURG INDUSTRY DAYS with an Industry Accreditation PLUS. Single tickets for the conference are not available. The Industry Accreditation PLUS is now available online at the Early Bird rate of 130 euros (regular price of 180 euros starting September 10). In addition to access to the EXPLORER KONFERENZ, it also grants admission to accredited screenings, public film screenings, the MADE IN GERMANY series, and the International Film Distribution Summit (IFDS).
