AFM Begins Eight-Day Run Today

   Every February for eleven years, thousands of film distributors, production company executives, film-makers and miscellaneous industry people gather in Santa Monica for an eight-day marathon of screenings, buying and selling. 
   It's the American Film Market (AFM) and the 2001 edition begins today and runs through February 28. Over 7,000 people from 70 countries are expected to attend. 
   Once again headquarters for the Market, Loews Santa Monica Beach Hotel has turned all of its guest rooms into offices for attendees. 
   Over 400 films will be screened on Santa Monica's 23 movie theater screens. This year, for the first time, Santa Monica residents have been invited to attend 70 Premiere Screenings at no charge. People interested in attending can register at www.santamonica.com's calendar section.