Hungary’s prominence in global cinema continues to rise, with local talent contributing to films that have achieved critical and commercial success such as the Oscar and BAFTA-winning Poor Things, blockbuster Dune series, and Cannes selection Rumours.
Industry experts will discuss Hungary’s ascent to prominence at the Cannes Marché du Film Conferences on May 17th, highlighting the remarkable growth in film and high-end TV production within the country.
The panel will focus on topics like the 20-year tax incentive, the expansion of soundstage capacity, and workforce development, alongside Hungary‘s creative contributions. With direct film production spending reaching USD 910 million in 2023, Hungary has solidified its position as continental Europe’s largest production hub, achieving a fourfold increase in spending over the last five years.
Over the years, Hungary has provided the backdrop for a host of high-profile films and series such as Blade Runner 2049, The Martian, Terminator: Dark Fate, Black Widow, Gran Turismo, and The Alienist. The country’s infrastructure and talent have attracted major international projects, with recent productions includingDune: Part One and Two, Poor Things, Nuremberg, Rise of the Raven, and Rumours.
Panelists:
- Csaba Kael: Government Commissioner for the Development of the Hungarian Film Industry since 2019 and Chairman of the National Film Institute, Kael brings over 30 years of experience as a director and currently serves as the CEO of Müpa Budapest. His initiatives have helped elevate Hungary’s cultural standing.
- Ildikó Kemény: As CEO of Pioneer Pictures and Pioneer Stillking, Kemény has guided the company to become a major player in Hungary’s film industry. Her credits include producing Orphan with Oscar-winner László Nemes and co-producing titles like Maria, Lee, and All The Light We Cannot See.
- Mike Goodridge: A prominent producer and executive producer, Goodridge’s company Good Chaos has delivered acclaimed projects like Touch and Santosh. His upcoming films include László Nemes’ Orphan and Edward Berger’s The Ballad of a Small Player.
- Robert Lantos: A seasoned producer with Serendipity Point Films, Lantos has an impressive track record, including titles like The Sweet Hereafter, Barney’s Version, and Eastern Promises. His recent production, Crimes of the Future, premiered at Cannes, and the series Rise of the Raven is in post-production.
The panel will be moderated by Mia Galuppo and will take place on the Riviera Main Stage at the Palais des Festivals on May 17th from 11:30 AM to 12:30 PM.












