WELCOME EVENT HOSTED BY: FILM LAUDERDALE

Be there at 11 am to kick off the weekend with us, and discover everything we’ve prepared for you.

Open to all DAY PASS or WEEKEND PASS holders.

My First Feature

A diverse group of first-time filmmakers share their personal experiences making their debut feature films. Discussing the triumphs, the setbacks, and the lessons learned along the way. They’ll offer an honest, behind-the-scenes look at the highs and lows of bringing a vision to life. An intimate, and vulnerable discussion with a group of directors who did something that once felt impossible.

Featured Speakers: Monica Sorelle (Indie Spirit Award-Winning Film Director), Edson Jean (Award-Winning Film Director), Chris Molina (Award-Winning Film Director) & Noah Salzman (Award-Winning Film Director)

Open to all DAY PASS or WEEKEND PASS holders. Limited seating. First come, first served.

Creative Film & TV Producing: Crafting Stories, Not Budgets

Producers are often seen as people who just manage budgets, logistics, and timelines. However, the best producers are those who know how to use the tools at their disposal to craft compelling stories that resonate with audiences. All while navigating the delicate balance between achieving the creative vision and production realities. Our panelists will focus on the creative side of producing, exploring how producers can elevate projects by creating collaborative environments, nurturing talent, and making decisions that prioritize storytelling even with daunting financial limitations.

Featured Speakers: Jamin O' Brien (Producer of “Eighth Grade” from A24), Robert Colom (Award-Winning Film Producer, & Molly Hallam (Producer of “The Mustang” & Sundance Alumni)

Open to all DAY PASS or WEEKEND PASS holders. Limited seating. First come, first served.

The State of our Industry

Uncertainty is in the air. The film and TV industry has undergone radical shifts in the last decade. Nothing is as it was, and no one is sure of what is to come next. Our panelists break down where we are now, how the industry is shifting, and what seems to be working during these unpredictable times. An in-depth conversation on how content is being produced and consumed today.

Featured Speakers: Buzz Wallick (Fox Studios), Allen Maldonado (Actor, “Black-ish” & “The Wonder Years”), & Jay Roewe (HBO)

Open to all DAY PASS or WEEKEND PASS holders. Limited seating. First come, first served.

From Dream to Dollars: Project Financing

Securing funding for your project can feel like an uphill battle. In this panel, seasoned industry professionals will share their knowledge on navigating the often-complex world of film and TV financing. From understanding the different types of funding sources to mastering the art of attracting investment, our expert panelists will provide real-world strategies for successfully financing your project. They’ll break down the ins and outs of securing soft-money, taking advantage of tax incentives, grants, and co-productions, and explain how to make your project stand out to potential investors.

Featured Sponsors: Mikey Moral (MRC Pictures), Joe Chianese (Entertainment Partners), & Mike Mogadas (MarVista)

Open to all DAY PASS or WEEKEND PASS holders. Limited seating. First come, first served.

INDUSTRY MIXER BROUGHT TO YOU BY: FILM FLORIDA

The party before the party. Come hang with other film lovers just like you.

FREE SPONSORED ALCOHOLIC DRINKS (for 21+ w/ valid ID) AND NON-ALCOHOLIC DRINKS included.

Building a Sustainable Business Model

Sustainability is key. From smart budgeting to securing steady funding, and diversifying revenue streams, all while adapting to industry shifts. Experts share strategies for balancing creativity with financial stability, making filmmaking a long-term, sustainable practice. As well as sharing insight into what has and hasn't worked for them in the past, and how you can learn from both traditional and emerging business models.

Featured Speakers: Alexis Garcia (CAT5), Andrew Hevia (Oscar-Winning Film Producer), & Ana Leocha (Producer of “Sorry Baby” from A24)

Open to all DAY PASS or WEEKEND PASS holders. Limited seating. First come, first served.

Bringing Characters to Life with nika king

How do actors turn words on a page into compelling, authentic performances? This panel explores the process of character development, from script analysis to emotional preparation. Panelists will share techniques for making bold choices, building backstories, and maximizing pre-production time to ensure every performance feels natural and engaging.

Featured Speakers: Nika King (Actress, ‘Leslie’ on HBO’s “Euphoria”)

Open to all DAY PASS or WEEKEND PASS holders. Limited seating. First come, first served.

Legal Mumbo-Jumbo

A seasoned entertainment lawyer answers all the questions you were always too scared to ask. Expect this panel to be a judgement free zone, there are no stupid questions.

Featured Speakers: Scott M. Goldberg, Esq.

Open to all DAY PASS or WEEKEND PASS holders. Limited seating. First come, first served.

The Casting Director, The Agent, and Me

A smart director once said '90% of directing is casting'. Join us for an honest conversation on what is really happening during the casting process. How does a casting department think? How has the casting process changed over the past 10 years? Four of South Florida's biggest casting directors and agents discuss what they are looking for during the casting process, and how you can increase your chances of being noticed.

Featured Speakers: Bianka Krausch and Sabine Krausch (Film Agents, Talent Direct Agency), Lori Wyman (Casting Director of “Ballers”, “Miami Vice” and “Bad Monkey”), & Kelly Paige (Talent Agent)

Open to all DAY PASS or WEEKEND PASS holders. Limited seating. First come, first served.

Secret Screening: SoFlo Made feature

A secret screening of a South Florida-made feature film

Featured Film: TBD

Guests may only enter the Secret Cinema before the feature begins playing.

Open to all DAY PASS or WEEKEND PASS holders. Limited seating. First come, first served.