The Film Festival Isn't the Goal -
It's the Strategy
Session Description:
Most filmmakers approach the festival circuit with one question: "Where should I submit?"
It's the wrong question.
In this practical and eye-opening session, festival programmer and Film Festival Insider founder Heather Brittain shares how successful filmmakers think differently about the festival circuit. Rather than chasing prestige or collecting laurels, they'll learn how to build a festival strategy that supports the unique goals of their film.
Drawing from years of experience reviewing submissions from the programmer's chair, Heather will share common mistakes filmmakers make, what programmers actually notice before they even press play, and how thoughtful positioning can give a film its best chance to stand out.
Whether you're preparing your first festival run or looking to approach your next one more strategically, you'll leave with a clearer framework for making smarter submission decisions and getting more value from every festival opportunity.
Bio
Heather Brittain is the founder of Film Festival Insider™, where she helps independent filmmakers navigate the festival circuit with greater strategy and confidence. As a working festival programmer, award-winning filmmaker, producer, and consultant, she brings a rare perspective from both sides of the submission process.
Heather has reviewed thousands of film festival submissions and works with filmmakers around the world to develop personalized festival strategies that align with their goals, budgets, and careers. She is also the creator of Festival Fixr™, an AI-powered festival strategy platform featured in Variety, and Freeway Fixr™, a program designed to help filmmakers optimize their FilmFreeway presence before submitting.
In addition to her work with Film Festival Insider, Heather serves as Vice Chair and a lead programmer for the Garden State Film Festival, New Jersey's largest independent film festival, and is an active producer through Via Mantra Productions.