IFFR Pro Dialogue: Film festival redux – what film festivals can do for filmmakers

How can filmmakers make the most of the disruption the last few years has caused the film festival sector? As some festivals rebrand themselves as star-studded events that prioritise red carpets and big names, others have doubled down their support for directors and films that might otherwise struggle to secure traditional distribution and boost their chances of finding the audience and recognition they deserve. This panel will reflect on changes in film festival identities and how filmmakers can best navigate this new terrain.

The panel will offer some practical advice to filmmakers how to make the most of this new situation.

The panel will consist of Laura Citarella (director and producer, Trenque Lauquen – Harbour), Maialen Beloki (deputy director – San Sebastian International Film Festival), Ellen Kim (head programmer – Bucheon International Fantastic Film Festival), Mimi Plauché (artistic director – Chicago International Film Festival), Nico Marzano (ICA/ Frames of Representation), and Anna Datsiuk (programmer – Kyiv Critics Week).

Moderated by producer and industry consultant Hayet Benkara.