Are film festivals still a place for newcomers to make a name for themselves? [Part 1 of 3]

I’m really excited about today’s post because, honestly, a lot of what I do tends to feel pretty regimented. I’ve found a process and standard that works best for me, and that’s often what I share with the world. Whether it’s a social media walkthrough guide for short films or the steps to creating a pitch deck, I’ve developed a system that makes sense for how I operate.

Obviously, I love organizing lists—it calms something in my very chaotic brain. And I know that’s how I prefer to take in new information, too. From screenwriting contests and fellowships to a list of 33 stellar film grants, I’ve noticed a lot of you resonate with that format as well.

Recently I was asked if I thought it was worthwhile for a newcomer filmmaker to submit to the bigger festivals. And I think that’s a complicated answer because film festivals aren’t just a fun place to gather with likeminded creatives—they're a multi-million-dollar industry. And I don’t think it’s as simple as saying “yes or no” when asked if film festivals are worth it, or just throwing out a tight list of recommendations (which feels even more overwhelming now, with so many festivals out there… but don’t worry. It’s coming). The reality is there are countless factors at play that determine the level of success a newcomer filmmaker might find at a festival—if they even get in.

So, are film festivals still a place where newcomers, without Hollywood connections, can make a name for themselves and build those much-needed relationships?

My short answer: Yes. I do still believe that some film festivals offer a platform for newcomers to break in… but it’s much more complicated than that (of course it is) 🤠

I think new filmmakers still don’t quite understand the complexities of the beast that they are up against when it comes to film festivals. So many are just happy to be here! There’s that prevailing myth that one festival will break down the doors to your Hollywood dreams. Newcomers think they’re going to arrive, LOADS of people will watch their film, fall in love and flock to them like the government spending money on a bad idea. They’ll find their dream agent or sell their project, just like that.

But sadly that is not the reality. There are countless factors at play that can affect your experience at a film festival. But the one I want to focus on today is: Understanding who/what you’re up against… hint, hint - it’s far more than your fellow “new filmmakers”, it’s a lot of it’s capitalism and a lot of expertise, baby.

In part 2, we’ll be diving into strategies and planning that can help newcomers maximize their film festival experience—from understanding a festival’s goals to preparing months in advance…. and what exactly should be prepared.

In part 3, (out in two weeks) I’ll of course close it out with a list of the most vetted festivals for making sales, networking and connecting with agents and managers.

Let’s get into it.