Workshops, Panels, + Keynotes

IN-PERSON

Friday, April 28th

Event Speed Networking

10am @ The Vera Project

Connect with like-minded individuals, gain valuable industry insights and build meaningful professional relationships at this exciting opportunity for young lmmakers and industry professionals. Start your lmmaking career off right and join us for a fun and engaging event!

Workshop

SEED&SPARK: THE DISTRIBUTION DOWN LOW WITH BRI CASTELLINI

2:30pm @ SIFF Uptown 2

Hosted by industry expert Bri Castellini, S&S demysti es the complex world of distribution for independent creators. Learn about the current landscape, different avenues to take, and economics for every window from theatrical through VOD and beyond. Elevate your indie project with these valuable insights!

Event Happy Hour Shorts

Raise a glass for these quirky and bubbly comedies, a ight of lms guaranteed to warm your soul! A bit of childhood nostalgia, a dash of fresh ink, and a heaping plateful of musical mayhem make for a well earned happy hour.

Must be 21+ to drink

IN-PERSON

Saturday, April 29th

EVENT BRUNCH & LEARN: WITH ECHOBEND & MY FIRST JOB IN FILM

10am @ The Vera Project

Echobend and My First Job in Film present a delicious brunch and insightful panel discussion on transitioning from PA positions to more substantial roles on set. Ryan and Noah will provide valuable tips and tricks for nding paid work, advancing your career, and best practices for networking with other industry professionals. As a bonus for attending, you’ll receive one month of free membership to My First Job in Film's platform and a one-on-one mentoring session!

Panelists: Ryan Turner (Chief Creative Of cer), Noah Wagner (EP|Post Production).

Panel Bringing Characters To Life

2:30pm @ SIFF Uptown 2

Discover what it takes to build characters we can’t forget and the diverse techniques used to develop authentic personalities. From conceptualization to nal product, directors, actors, and animators will delve into the challenges and joys of their roles and the importance of seamless collaboration. Whether you're a fan of animation, lm, or video games, this event promises to be an inspiring journey into the world of character creation.

Keynote From Shorts To Features With Kris Mercado

5:30pm @ SIFF Uptown 1

Kris Mercado is a rising lmmaker who shares his journey from creating short lms to making his feature debut If You Were the Last at SXSW with a star-studded cast. Get an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at his creative process and gain valuable insights from his experience as a lmmaker. This event is a must-attend for aspiring lmmakers, lm enthusiasts, and anyone curious about the creative process going from directing short lms to features.