Programmers from around the world gather in Grimstad for the Norwegian Short Film Festival to watch films and meet attending filmmakers. Filmmakers, on the other hand, often find it intimidating to approach a programmer, so being in a face-to-face setting might take the edge off.

In this panel of programmers from some of the industry’s most influential film festivals, you will learn first hand about their festival’s profile, what they are looking for, how they make their decisions, and what you as a filmmaker can do to make your film stand out in a sea of submissions.

There’s no bible of Dos and Don’ts when creating a strategy or submitting to a festival, which is why this panel is essential to attend. This will be an unfiltered and (perhaps brutally) honest interaction between festivals and filmmakers, where myths and misunderstandings will be clarified – and that it might feel a little easier to approach a programmer in the future.

Moderator: Kathleen McInnis
For over 30 years, McInnis has discovered, introduced and supported emerging world cinema talent through her work in premiere film festival programming, film producing, and strategic publicity at A-List festivals worldwide.

*This event will be in English.

Saturday 15:30 Galleriet