Hi, I just had a quick question. Besides, the typical top ones like Austin film festival, Sundance Final Draft etc. What are some other really good film? Festivals to go and network with a chance of meeting and encountering an age it. And please note Debbie downers. I know that this business can be hard but it is doable. Thanks, p.s.I'm near New York City, so if you have any places in New York City that have film festivals and networking events with legit agencies who are willing to check you out, let me know.Thank you so much.
Distribution : Conferences, Festivals and Ither Places to Go to to NetworkzBesides the Usual Big Ones by Janelle Rollins
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Absolutely love your attitude, Janelle Rollins, you’re so right, this business is tough, but it’s absolutely doable when you show up with passion and persistence like you are!
Since you’re based near NYC, you’re actually in a great spot. Here are a few lesser-known but legit festivals and events where real networking happens and industry eyes are often watching:
• New York Television Festival (NYTVF) – While it’s evolved over the years, it’s long been a place where creators connect with agents, managers, and producers looking for new voices.
• Soho International Film Festival – A fantastic place for indie filmmakers and emerging talent. The crowd tends to be full of working creatives and industry scouts.
• Bushwick Film Festival – Strong emphasis on underrepresented voices and new talent. Great vibe and great conversations.
• Montclair Film Festival (just across the river in NJ) – Increasingly respected and attended by people from all levels of the industry.
• IFP Week / Gotham Week (The Gotham Film & Media Institute) – This one is gold. It’s not just a festival, it’s an industry marketplace and networking hub. A must-attend if you’re developing a project and want to meet agents or execs.
Also, don’t underestimate the power of consistently being active on Stage 32, joining the lounge conversations, attending Stage 32 webcasts, and even emailing our Success Team at Success@Stage32.com for advice on next steps can make a real difference.
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Depending on what your film is about Janelle Rollins, also consider direct to consumer exposure. For example, one of the documentary filmmakers I met on this platform had a film about a jazz musician. She entered film festivals, of course, but she also did screenings around the globe that catered to the topic of interest. She came to Edmonton, where I was living at the time, and launched her screening tour at a jazz club there. She showed her film at other clubs, music schools, and in major jazz festivals, such as the Monterey Jazz Festival.