the origins of ACE
ace, the harmonious interplay of art and financing
In 1993 a seasoned group of independent European producers, led by René Cleitman and David Puttnam, decided to pool together their experience and know how with the purpose of sharing it with up and coming film producers and advancing the cause of independent cinema.
With the support of a large network of industry professionals, they consequently founded ACE, a centre for training and development geared towards helping independent European producers.
the different ways in which ace aims to help its producers are :
Reposition the producer as the helmsman of the production process in all its phases, from the writing of the screenplay to the commercialisation of the finished film;
Advise the producers during the period of creative development and strengthen their key roles together with those of the authors;
Provide independent producers with a unique venue where they can debate and exchange information and experiences with their European peers;
Offer opportunities to establish ongoing contacts with industry professionals at an international level;
Supply a year-round tailor-made service, adapted to the experience of each ACE producer and to his or her individual project.
ace, a complete approach to development
Every year a dozen European producers are selected to participate in the ACE programme.
Thanks to the workshops and the close personal monitoring offered by ACE, the producers can dramatically increase the possibility of a film’s success. ACE helps the producers construct coherent projects by focusing on both the creative and financial dimensions of film making.
Exchange of ideas, script analysis, preparation of financing plans, identification of and search for partners… the entire method for project development is designed with the ACE producers (who remain the decision-makers on the projects).
ace, an active network of producers
Since its inception, more than 200 feature film producers from 23 European territories have joined the ranks of ACE.
Over the years, ACE has become not only an operational structure providing professional advice on the various aspects of feature film production, but also an important and active network of European producers.
At the end of the first year, every producer can continue to benefit from ACE’s various services by joining the ACE Producers Network.
ACE organises every spring the so-called Annual Reunion of the ACE Network but also gives the chance for ACE members to experience international film festivals through ACE events and professional meetings. These festivals are privileged opportunities for making contact with other members of the film industry and potential partners for their projects, exchanging ideas, viewing and discussing one another’s films, sharing experiences and pitching ongoing projects. The network effect means that the experience of each individual is used for the benefit of all.