Interest in theatrical distribution of non-fiction product is a fact, according to UK sales agent Jane Balfour, of Jane Balfour Films, screening four documentaries in the European Film Market.
'However, there are still a lot of problems to be solved. Most frequently, documentaries are funded by television stations, which are not willing to give them a hold-back so they can try their chance theatrically,' she added.
'A 35mm blow-up is rarely included in the budget. And some distributors are still reluctant, because they think exhibitors are convinced there are no audiences for documentaries on the big screen. But prejudices are beginning to shrink.'
One of the acknowledged hits of the market, Dana Ranga and Andrew Horn's 77-minute East Side Story - the story of socialist musicals - was previously licensed to several broadcasters, including the UK's BBC and Finland's YLE.
Following the interest in Berlin after the presentation at Sundance, Balfour is now reticent about further TV offers, while examining the costs of clearing the rights for theatrical distribution.
US, Brazilian, Spanish and Italian companies are ready to pick it up.
Alan Berliner's 60-minute Nobody's Business - the director's exploration of his Berlin heritage - was purchased for Japan by Pandora, which intends a theatrical release. A similar deal for Germany is pending. TV buyers include ARTE. Jørn Rossing Jensen
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