Cannes Beach Soirée 2026

As part of the Cannes International Film Festival, the State of North Rhine-Westphalia, the Film- und Medienstiftung NRW and the Produktionsallianz once again jointly hosted an official reception this year.

The Cannes Beach Soirée, held yesterday, Friday 15 May, at Plage Vilebrequin on the Croisette, brought together producers, filmmakers, leading international figures from the industry and political decision-makers to showcase North Rhine-Westphalia as a film and media hub on the international stage.

The discussions at the 2nd Cannes Beach Soirée focused on exchange, networking and new opportunities for international collaboration. The 300 guests were welcomed by Michelle Müntefering (CEO of Produktionsallianz) and Walid Nakschbandi (Managing Director of the Film- und Medienstiftung NRW).

Through this joint event, the Film- und Medienstiftung NRW and the Produktionsallianz, together with the State of North Rhine-Westphalia, highlighted their close collaboration aimed at strengthening Germany’s position as a film production hub on the international stage.

North Rhine-Westphalia is one of Germany’s most important film and production locations and an attractive partner for international film productions. The Film- und Medienstiftung NRW is one of the most active regional film funding bodies in Europe, whilst the state of North Rhine-Westphalia supports the creative media and film industry through targeted funding measures. The Production Alliance brings together and represents the interests of German producers, promotes Germany as a film location and fosters international exchange within the industry.

Furthermore, the Film- und Medienstiftung NRW is a partner and the organiser of the German Pavilion in Cannes, the central meeting place for the German film industry at the Marché du Film, the world’s largest film market.