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EFD Studios reaffirms its support for emerging talent at DocsMX

EFD Studios has partnered with DocsMX, the International Documentary Film Festival of Mexico City, to reinforce its commitment to fostering and developing new cinematic talent. DocsMX not only showcases and promotes documentary films but also offers workshops, forums, and educational activities that enrich participants' experiences and skills. As part of this collaboration, EFD Studios participated in DocsLab, a platform designed to connect filmmakers and producers, fostering the creation and exchange of ideas. Its goal is to encourage new documentary projects and support emerging documentary filmmakers in Mexico and across Ibero-America. After careful deliberation, EFD Studios awarded two prizes in the following workshops: For Plataforma Mx, a space where participants receive guidance in various areas to refine their ideas and bring them to the screen, the winning project was Fosfo, directed by Humberto Busto and Guz Guevara, and produced by Abril López Carrillo.  All languages For Plataforma IB, a five-day workshop focused on developing the creative processes of documentary projects, the selected proposal was Marithea, a Colombian project directed by Diego Cruz and produced by Frank Carreño and Margarita Beltrán. Both winning productions will receive a full filming kit for four weeks, allowing the selected documentaries to be brought to life. This year’s award ceremony was held at the Universidad de la Comunicación and concluded with a reception, where participants and judges gathered to celebrate the festival's closing. EFD Studios is proud to be part of this event, reaffirming its commitment to supporting and empowering the dreams of Mexican and International filmmakers. Its collaboration with DocsMX strengthens EFD Studios' mission to contribute to the growth of documentary filmmaking, by supporting new generations of talent in their creative journeys.

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EFD Studios Announces the Largest Virtual Production Set in Europe and Unveils Training Initiatives in Mexico with Inna Payán and in Spain

This new set will be the largest on the European continent and will bring about a transformation in European audiovisual production. This set will not only boost technology, but also promote greener practices within the audiovisual industry. Circa 24, EFD Studios' training initiative in collaboration with Animal de Luz Films (Inna Payán), will promote film education in Mexico and develop talent in the industry. EFD Studios Academy has a new approach to Technical Training in Spain, offering training to young talent as well as providing updating training for working professionals. Madrid, October 3rd, 2024 – During Iberseries & Platino Industria, Georgina Terán, EFD Studios CEO, announced today the construction of the largest virtual production set in Europe, marking a milestone in the audiovisual industry. This innovative facility will have more than 2,000 m² of set space equipped with LED technology and state-of-the-art computer and processing chain. The set will be located in Boadilla del Monte, Madrid, offering creators an advanced working environment to explore new dimensions of creativity and production efficiency.  The panel entitled “Virtual Production: A Game-Changer”, Georgina Terán (CEO of EFD Studios), Mauricio van Hasselt (VP On-Set Producer, Pixomondo), David Monguet (VP Producer, MO&MO Studio), Migue Amoedo (Director of Photography AEC), and Amaya Muruzábal (Showrunner and CEO of M Content), moderated by Ismael Issa (Director of Photography AEC), discussed the tremendous advantages and possibilities offered by this technology, as well as its impact on current productions.  This set construction reinforces EFD Studios' dedication to the modernization of the audiovisual industry in Europe. This cutting-edge space will not only attract major international productions but will also help to optimize resources and reduce environmental impact, consolidating Spain as a benchmark in European film production.  Commitment to the Training and Development of Local Talent in Mexico and Spain  EFD Studios also reaffirmed its commitment to the training and development of local talent through two important initiatives announced during a cocktail party that took place after the panel:  CIRCA 24: In collaboration with Animal de Luz Films and its director Inna Payán, Circa 24 seeks to foster film training in Mexico, providing new opportunities for emerging talent and strengthening the country's audiovisual industry. Circa 24 is a school specializing in professional training in film, television and performing arts, distinguished by its multidisciplinary approach. Its methodology combines theory and practice, allowing students to integrate into both the creative and technical areas of the audiovisual industry. The programs cover areas such as directing, scriptwriting, production, acting, as well as a wide range of technical specialties, providing a complete and updated training that promotes a creative community focused on all areas of the audiovisual industry. Learn more about it here: https://circa24.mx/ EFD STUDIOS ACADEMY: EFD Studios Academy in Spain will focus its efforts on technical training, offering programs designed for both young talents and working professionals. In this vocational school, highly qualified professionals will be trained with a comprehensive approach in the technical and specialized areas most in demand at present. The audiovisual sector has traditionally relied on the transmission of knowledge, which is currently insufficient given the accelerated growth of the industry at a national and international level.  With the increasing demand for highly qualified professionals, driven by streaming platforms and tax incentives, EFD Studios is standing as a recognized and trusted expert in the industry. Its approach combines practical training, rigor and specialization, responding to the opportunities offered by an ever-expanding industry. Learning will be focused on technical areas that have been historically underserved in the academic offerings, aiming to be a genuine steppingstone to the professional arena and add value to the audiovisual industry. EFD Studios Academy's mission is to unite training and industry in a single process, ensuring that trained professionals have the required skills to excel and meet the demands of the market.  Innovation and Sustainability Impact  These initiatives not only drive technological innovation in the audiovisual production, but also reflect EFD Studios' commitment to sustainability and social responsibility, contributing to the growth of a stronger and more diverse film ecosystem.  About Animal de Luz  Animal de Luz is the production company headed by Inna Payán, Mexican producer with more than 20 years of experience in the audiovisual industry, with over 30 films produced and 6 TV series. Since 2011, the company has positioned itself as one of the leading Mexican film production companies.  Inna actively participates in the Mexican Association of Independent Producers, is the Vice President of the Mexican Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, and is member of The Academy.  Her filmography includes La Jaula de Oro (Dir. Diego Quemada-Diez), winner of 81 international awards, including Un Certain Regard at the 2013 Cannes Film Festival; La Libertad del Diablo (Dir. Everardo González), winner of the Amnesty International Film Prize at the 2017 Berlin International Film Festival; Todos están muertos (Dir. Beatriz Sanchis), starring Elena Anaya; and Los Lobos (Dir. Samuel Kishi), winner of the Generation KPlus Grand Prix at the 2020 Berlin International Film Festival.  EFD Studios at Iberseries & Platino Industria 2024 – A Visual Journey.

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EFD Studios at Iberseries & Platino Industria 2024 – A Visual Journey

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AMC and EFD Studios present ‘ La Mirada Fija ’: A tribute to Mexican cinematography at the Franz Mayer Museum

Mexico City, September 27, 2024. As part of the 1st Mexican Cinematography Summit, the Mexican Society of Cinematography (AMC) and EFD Studios have joined forces to pay tribute to some of Mexico’s most prominent cinematographers with the presentation of the exhibition “La Mirada Fija”. The unveiling was led by Diana Garay, Co-President of AMC; Eduardo Servello, Director of the 1st Mexican Cinematography Summit; and Eduardo Terán, Board Member of EFD Studios (Mexico), with numerous media outlets in attendance. “La Mirada Fija” is a photographic exhibition celebrating the mastery of Mexico’s most renowned cinematographers. Open to the public from September 27 to October 27, 2024, at the Maker Room of the Franz Mayer Museum in Mexico City, this extraordinary collection showcases 49 images by AMC members, whose works have earned accolades at prestigious international festivals, including the Oscars, Sundance, and Tribeca. Each photograph invites visitors to explore the visual storytelling that has shaped contemporary Mexican cinema, highlighting the technical and artistic skills of these professionals as they capture the essence of stories in every frame. This exhibition is a tribute to the art of cinematography. It reflects the unique perspective and diversity of each Director of Photography, united by their shared passion for imagery, offering visitors a deep dive into Mexico’s visual universe while recognizing the critical role of cinematography in national artistic expression. EFD Studios Celebrates 25 Years with a New Brand Identity Focused on Innovation and Sustainability EFD Studios used the occasion of “La Mirada Fija” to unveil their new brand identity, marking the evolution of the company throughout its 25-year history. This rebranding highlights the studio’s expansion into new business verticals and its consolidation as a "One-Stop-Shop" offering 360º services for creators, positioning itself as a strategic partner for filmmakers. Furthermore, EFD Studios reaffirms its strong commitment to sustainability and diversity—core values in the company’s new phase. Numerous media outlets, including Entrepreneur, Chilango, Grupo Imagen, Canal 22, and El Sol de México, attended the presentation. As evening fell, guests and attendees dressed up for an exclusive cocktail reception held at the Franz Mayer Museum. The event offered participants the opportunity to enjoy live music and network with prominent professionals from the audiovisual sector, creating an ideal environment for professional exchanges. Before the general public opening, attendees enjoyed an exclusive private tour of the exhibition, giving them the opportunity to experience the artistry in a more intimate setting. This early access added a touch of distinction to an evening that seamlessly blended culture, entertainment, and professional opportunities. Discover more about this event in: A Glimpse into the Photographic Exhibition 'La Mirada Fija’.

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A Glimpse into the Photographic Exhibition ‘La Mirada Fija’

As part of the 1st Encounter with Mexican Cinematography, the Mexican Society of Cinematographers (AMC, in Spanish) and EFD Studios joined forces to honor Mexico’s most prominent cinematographers. They presented ‘La Mirada Fija’, a photography exhibition celebrating the artistry and mastery of Mexico’s most renowned cinematographers.

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EFD Studios at the “PILARES in the Zócalo: A Collective Perspective” Event

This past Sunday, September 22nd, Mexico City’s historic center came alive with over a thousand photography and audiovisual enthusiasts for the event “PILARES in the Zócalo: A Collective Perspective”. Organized by PILARES (Centers for Innovation, Freedom, Art, Education, and Knowledge which translates in Spanish to PILARES), which aims to foster community integration and rebuild social ties, the event’s goal was to capture iconic images of the city. The participants embarked on nine different routes, starting from iconic spots like the Zócalo, Ex Teresa, Santo Domingo, Murales, Skatepark, Chinatown, Bellas Artes, Munal, and Congress. These routes provided a unique opportunity for participants to rediscover the city through their own personal lens. Supporting culture and education, EFD Studios contributed by providing technical equipment for filming and lighting, as well as a dedicated team that accompanied the day’s activities. The event culminated at the San Ildefonso Museum with a series of conferences where renowned photographers shared their vision, techniques, and career insights, further enriching the photographic experience. EFD Studios also set up a full film set, allowing attendees to enjoy a hands-on cinematic experience. "This entire experience, from the Zócalo walk, seeing the cameras, to witnessing the set, has been extremely rewarding," said Luz María Almazo Corona, Coordinator B of the Audiovisual Academy of PILARES and a member of the Management and Organization Committee of the PILARES Photography Festival. "This event, along with EFD Studios’ participation, broadens the scope tremendously—where creativity is the only limit," remarked Josué Palomeque Bello, Audiovisual Instructor and fellow member of the Management and Organization Committee of the PILARES Photography Festival. PILARES is part of a comprehensive community-based educational policy targeting priority areas through the active involvement of residents, regardless of their social, economic, or cultural background. Experience the full event and explore how it unfolded here: EFD Studios at the PILARES event in photos.  

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EFD Studios at the PILARES Event a recap in photos

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“La Máquina”: The new series that brings together the duo of Diego Luna and Gael García Bernal once again, in collaboration with EFD Studios

Disney+ is set to exclusively premiere La Máquina, a new series that marks the reunion of Mexican actors Diego Luna (Andor, Narcos: Mexico, Rogue One: A Star Wars Story) and Gael García Bernal (Old, Mozart in the Jungle, The Motorcycle Diaries) as both producers and protagonists, with technical support from EFD Studios. Luna and García Bernal’s relationship solidified when they both rose to stardom with Y Tu Mamá También (2001), directed by Alfonso Cuarón. This successful production, which also used equipment from EFD Studios, launched them to international fame. Beyond their on-screen connection, the two founded the production company La Corriente del Golfo, establishing themselves as undisputed leaders in Latin American cinema. Like their first major success together, this new project also benefits from the technical expertise of EFD Studios, closing a collaborative circle that spans over two decades. La Máquina, produced by Searchlight Television for Hulu and brought to life by La Corriente del Golfo, features the collaboration of ESPN KNOCKOUT. The cinematography is handled by Emiliano Villanueva, AMC (A Cop Movie, The Thin Yellow Line, Lu's Dream). For this production, EFD Studios deployed state-of-the-art technology, utilizing Alexa 35 cameras with Hawk V-Lite lenses and a sophisticated lighting system featuring SkyPanels and Asteras. This technical partnership ensures a top-tier visual experience. La Máquina tells the story of a boxer at the end of his career, played by Gael García Bernal. With limited opportunities ahead, his shrewd manager, portrayed by Diego Luna, secures him one last chance to fight for the title. Marco Ramírez, known for his work on Daredevil, serves as showrunner, while the series is directed by Gabriel Ripstein, acclaimed for films like 600 Miles and An Unknown Enemy. Gerardo Gatica, Leandro Halperin, and Adam Fishbach also join as producers. This series promises to be one of the most anticipated of the year, combining renowned talent with an adrenaline-filled, emotional story set in the world of boxing. La Máquina | Official Trailer | Disney+  La Máquina premieres exclusively on Disney+ on October 9, with a total of six episodes.

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