Unifrance Rendez-Vous Kicks Off in Le Havre With Diverse Crop of French Fare Ranging From Corsica-Set Crime Thriller ‘Vendetta’ to Saucy ‘Escort Boys’

International buyers are again flocking to Le Havre on the northern coast of France for this year’s Unifrance Rendez-Vous TV market, which showcases the hottest new Gallic series, animated shows and documentary fare.

Highlights at the event, which runs Sept. 1-5, include France TV Distribution’s scripted series “Vendetta,” the story of a Corsican family that spans the 1990s to the present day; Mediawan Rights’ “After Us,” about an underground organization that sets out to kidnap children of corporate leaders as part of its fight against climate inaction and, from Wild Bunch TV, Season 2 of the hit “Escort Boys,” which reunites its four protagonists as they return to sex work following the loss of their hotel venture.

The Rendez-Vous also presents the Federation International documentary “Nature: The Call for Reconciliation,” which traces the history of life, from its cosmic origins to present-day challenges; and the latest season of Festivaal Distribution’s animated series “Barbapapa: One Big Happy Family!” celebrating its 55^th anniversary.

The selection well exemplifies France’s varied content offering.

Speaking to Variety, Unifrance President Gilles Pélisson says, “The French TV market is characterized by its diversity, with strong performance across all major genres: fiction, animation and documentary. All travel well internationally, reaching audiences in many territories and across multiple platforms.

“In recent years, we have seen a notable rise in scripted content, particularly in light crime series such as ‘HPI,’ ‘Astrid et Raphaëlle,’ or ‘Tom & Lola,’ which have become international success stories.”

At the same time, France has been developing high-end series, such as “A Prophet” and “Etty,” both of which are screening at the Venice Film Festival this year, Pélisson adds.

Domestic productions also continue to attract audiences on international streamers, he notes.

“French originals are performing strongly, with films like ‘Lost Bullet’ by Guillaume Pierret, starring Alban Lenoir, or ‘Ad Vitam’ by Rodolphe Lauga, starring Guillaume Canet, on Netflix.

“In addition, adaptations amplify the visibility of French creations abroad,” Pélisson says, pointing to the U.S. versions of such hit formats as “The Bureau” and “HPI,” namely Paramount+ and Showtime’s “The Agency” and ABC’s “High Potential,” respectively.

“This growing international presence underscores the rise of French soft power, driven by both its talents and its productions. Meanwhile, older series continue to resonate worldwide, especially on linear channels, with titles like ‘Profilage’ [‘The Paris Murders’] and ‘Candice Renoir.’”

While French shows continue to enjoy international success, this year’s Rendez-Vous takes place amid increasingly challenging market conditions, Pélisson notes.

“French TV production remains dynamic and internationally visible,” he stresses. “However, independent production and distribution face increasing pressure as they compete with streamers and consolidated media groups. In this context, international co-productions play a crucial role — not only for financing projects, but also for facilitating wider distribution in co-producing territories.

“At the same time, buyers are traveling less, markets are compelled to reinvent themselves, broadcasters face mounting challenges and platforms must adapt. We are witnessing an overall slowdown in market attendance, fueled by today’s uncertain geopolitical context.”

Nevertheless, the move from Biarritz to Le Havre last year has been a success for the Rendez-Vous.

“The first edition in Le Havre received a warm welcome, thanks in particular to the strong support of both the City of Le Havre and the Normandy Region. The setup of our trade market has proved to be an efficient tool for the  French sales companies.”

Le Havre Mayor Édouard Philippe and CNC President Gaëtan Bruel will be on hand for the opening night ceremony at the city’s Museum of Modern Art André Malraux (MuMa) on Monday, Sept. 1.

The Rendez-Vous shifts into gear on Tuesday with round tables focusing on the current situation facing international markets, along with facts and figures and conversations with leading industry reps. Pélisson will, for instance, be discussing the latest data on digital distribution with Yannick Carriou, CEO of research group Mediamétrie.

The event will also present more than 500 programs to visiting buyers.

France TV Distribution hosts Tuesday’s gala evening with the presentation of “Vendetta.”

A special soiree awaits attendees on Wednesday, when Normandy President Hervé Morin welcomes guests in nearby Fécamp for a gastronomical showcase of culinary delights hosted by regional chefs.

“We are very excited to launch this second edition in Le Havre, as we are expecting around 140 buyers to attend, despite the challenging market context,” Pélisson says.

Some 50 major sales companies, among them Studiocanal, Gaumont, MK2, About Premium Content, Studio TF1, Arte Distribution, Mediatoon, Xilam Animation and Java Films will be presenting their latest titles at the event.

“I am confident that the Rendez-Vous this year will be once again a great opportunity for our members to have a lot of productive meetings, exchange and generate business and [enjoy] a good sales flow.”