With streaming dominating the revenue streams for documentaries these days, and with streamers nearly universally operated by large corporations, how do you plan for the release of your film when your film involves one such corporation? The film team behind Union was elated to premiere at the Sundance Film Festival, but they knew they would have a different road ahead than other films premiering there. Join producers Mars Verrone and Samantha Curley, director Stephen Maing, impact producer Eliza Licht and distribution consultant Michael Tuckman as they chat with Brian Newman of Sub-Genre Media about devising an alternative distribution plan before coming to market.

This panel delves into the current distribution challenges facing the documentary world. Using Gary Hustwit’s groundbreaking generative documentary Eno as a case study, moderator Amy Hobby (Distribution Advocates) and producers Jessica Edwards and Emily Rothschild explore how filmmakers can empower themselves and their films by shifting towards a distribution mindset that leverages the wealth of tools now at our disposal. From strategic partnerships and eventized screenings, to innovative digital platforms, this discussion will provide a roadmap for documentary filmmakers and producers to rethink the distribution landscape. Reimagine a future where creativity and collaboration can drive the success of independent documentaries.

This panel explores how distribution challenges have sparked the emergence of direct-to-audience platforms like Jolt, GATHR, and Kinema, turning obstacles into opportunities for filmmakers. Born out of necessity, digital platforms and grassroots marketing have become creative solutions to bypass traditional industry barriers. Moderated by Jon Reiss of 8Above, panelists Neil Williams (GATHR), Christie Marchese (Kinema), and Tara Hein-Phillips (Jolt) will share their 30,000-foot view on the evolution of audience-to-distribution techniques, highlighting how these methods expand opportunities to exhibit films. Discover how these innovative approaches allow filmmakers to build loyal audiences, sustain their creative independence, and earn revenue, driving the creation of new pathways to success in today’s film landscape.

This panel dives into the evolving world of hybrid distribution, offering filmmakers a hands-on opportunity to brainstorm strategies in real time. Using live case studies from Pulkit Datta (Israelism) and Chithra Jeyaram (Amma’s Pride) and Michael Premo (Homegrown), panelists will explore the mix of traditional and digital platforms, navigating the balance between festivals, theatrical releases and streaming. Attendees will learn how to craft flexible, tailored distribution plans that maximize a film’s reach and impact. Join us for an interactive session where filmmakers can think creatively about their distribution options and tap into new ways of getting their stories out into the world.

With streaming dominating the revenue streams for documentaries these days, and with streamers nearly universally operated by large corporations, how do you plan for the release of your film when your film involves one such corporation? The film team behind Union was elated to premiere at the Sundance Film Festival, but they knew they would have a different road ahead than other films premiering there. Join producers Mars Verrone and Samantha Curley, director Stephen Maing, impact producer Eliza Licht and distribution consultant Michael Tuckman as they chat with Brian Newman of Sub-Genre Media about devising an alternative distribution plan before coming to market.

This panel dives into the evolving world of hybrid distribution, offering filmmakers a hands-on opportunity to brainstorm strategies in real time. Using live case studies from Pulkit Datta (Israelism) and Chithra Jeyaram (Amma’s Pride) and Michael Premo (Homegrown), panelists will explore the mix of traditional and digital platforms, navigating the balance between festivals, theatrical releases and streaming. Attendees will learn how to craft flexible, tailored distribution plans that maximize a film’s reach and impact. Join us for an interactive session where filmmakers can think creatively about their distribution options and tap into new ways of getting their stories out into the world.

This panel delves into the current distribution challenges facing the documentary world. Using Gary Hustwit’s groundbreaking generative documentary Eno as a case study, moderator Amy Hobby (Distribution Advocates) and producers Jessica Edwards and Emily Rothschild explore how filmmakers can empower themselves and their films by shifting towards a distribution mindset that leverages the wealth of tools now at our disposal. From strategic partnerships and eventized screenings, to innovative digital platforms, this discussion will provide a roadmap for documentary filmmakers and producers to rethink the distribution landscape. Reimagine a future where creativity and collaboration can drive the success of independent documentaries.

This panel explores how distribution challenges have sparked the emergence of direct-to-audience platforms like Jolt, GATHR, and Kinema, turning obstacles into opportunities for filmmakers. Born out of necessity, digital platforms and grassroots marketing have become creative solutions to bypass traditional industry barriers. Moderated by Jon Reiss of 8Above, panelists Neil Williams (GATHR), Christie Marchese (Kinema), and Tara Hein-Phillips (Jolt) will share their 30,000-foot view on the evolution of audience-to-distribution techniques, highlighting how these methods expand opportunities to exhibit films. Discover how these innovative approaches allow filmmakers to build loyal audiences, sustain their creative independence, and earn revenue, driving the creation of new pathways to success in today’s film landscape.

With streaming dominating the revenue streams for documentaries these days, and with streamers nearly universally operated by large corporations, how do you plan for the release of your film when your film involves one such corporation? The film team behind Union was elated to premiere at the Sundance Film Festival, but they knew they would have a different road ahead than other films premiering there. Join producers Mars Verrone and Samantha Curley, director Stephen Maing, impact producer Eliza Licht and distribution consultant Michael Tuckman as they chat with Brian Newman of Sub-Genre Media about devising an alternative distribution plan before coming to market.

This panel delves into the current distribution challenges facing the documentary world. Using Gary Hustwit’s groundbreaking generative documentary Eno as a case study, moderator Amy Hobby (Distribution Advocates) and producers Jessica Edwards and Emily Rothschild explore how filmmakers can empower themselves and their films by shifting towards a distribution mindset that leverages the wealth of tools now at our disposal. From strategic partnerships and eventized screenings, to innovative digital platforms, this discussion will provide a roadmap for documentary filmmakers and producers to rethink the distribution landscape. Reimagine a future where creativity and collaboration can drive the success of independent documentaries.

This panel dives into the evolving world of hybrid distribution, offering filmmakers a hands-on opportunity to brainstorm strategies in real time. Using live case studies from Pulkit Datta (Israelism) and Chithra Jeyaram (Amma’s Pride) and Michael Premo (Homegrown), panelists will explore the mix of traditional and digital platforms, navigating the balance between festivals, theatrical releases and streaming. Attendees will learn how to craft flexible, tailored distribution plans that maximize a film’s reach and impact. Join us for an interactive session where filmmakers can think creatively about their distribution options and tap into new ways of getting their stories out into the world.

This panel explores how distribution challenges have sparked the emergence of direct-to-audience platforms like Jolt, GATHR, and Kinema, turning obstacles into opportunities for filmmakers. Born out of necessity, digital platforms and grassroots marketing have become creative solutions to bypass traditional industry barriers. Moderated by Jon Reiss of 8Above, panelists Neil Williams (GATHR), Christie Marchese (Kinema), and Tara Hein-Phillips (Jolt) will share their 30,000-foot view on the evolution of audience-to-distribution techniques, highlighting how these methods expand opportunities to exhibit films. Discover how these innovative approaches allow filmmakers to build loyal audiences, sustain their creative independence, and earn revenue, driving the creation of new pathways to success in today’s film landscape.

With streaming dominating the revenue streams for documentaries these days, and with streamers nearly universally operated by large corporations, how do you plan for the release of your film when your film involves one such corporation? The film team behind Union was elated to premiere at the Sundance Film Festival, but they knew they would have a different road ahead than other films premiering there. Join producers Mars Verrone and Samantha Curley, director Stephen Maing, impact producer Eliza Licht and distribution consultant Michael Tuckman as they chat with Brian Newman of Sub-Genre Media about devising an alternative distribution plan before coming to market.

This two-part session explores the art of editing in documentary film, using rough cuts and final scenes from veteran editor David Teague’s films including Frida, Pretty Baby: Brooke Shields, Life, Animated, and Cutie and the Boxer. We’ll examine the techniques that create powerful openings, maintain narrative flow, and shape memorable endings, revealing the editing choices that turn raw footage into compelling stories. 

This two-part session explores the art of editing in documentary film, using rough cuts and final scenes from veteran editor David Teague’s films including Frida, Pretty Baby: Brooke Shields, Life, Animated, and Cutie and the Boxer. We’ll examine the techniques that create powerful openings, maintain narrative flow, and shape memorable endings, revealing the editing choices that turn raw footage into compelling stories. 

The National Geographic team behind Clotilda: The Return Home will present an unfiltered look at the creative chaos that happens in the editing room. Editors Anthony Harper, Adam Lingo, producer Alex Brady and Senior Manager of Production Chaneé Patterson will share stories of how it all came together, from curveballs and unexpected moments, to the creative choices that defined the film. Guests will get a rare look behind the veil, exploring the art and craft of editing, with anecdotes that will make you laugh, cry, and see the editing process in a whole new light.

In this eye-opening panel moderated by Emir Lewis (NYU/Tisch), documentary editors Lynn True (Stolen Youth: Inside the Cult at Sarah Lawrence),  Rachel Shuman (Storm Lake), Carlos Rojas (The Territory), and Geoff O’Brien (Left Right) discuss the dos and don’ts for cinematographers to capture the best possible footage. Hear firsthand what editors love to see and what makes their job more challenging – from the perfect B-roll, framing, shot variety, and capturing essential moments, to the setups they wish DPs would exclude and more.

Dive into the art of “scrappy” cinematography, where resourcefulness meets innovation. With limited budgets but unlimited creativity, documentary cinematographers often find themselves using unconventional techniques to capture stunning visuals. Join moderator Liz Nord, director of the the Feature Film Development Studio at NYU’s Production Lab, DPs Olivier Sarbil (Viktor), and Ibrahim Nash’at (Hollywoodgate) as they share their stories of improvising with minimal gear, making the most of available light, and finding beauty in unexpected places. Whether you’re working with a tight budget or simply curious about pushing the boundaries of your craft, this panel offers practical insights and inspiring anecdotes for filmmakers who embrace the challenge of doing more with less.

Join moderator Liz Nord, director of the the Feature Film Development Studio at NYU’s Production Lab, cinematographer Vanessa Carr (Free Money), Christine Ng (Between The World and Me), and others to focus on the business side of cinematography, including practical advice for cinematographers on navigating the boom-and-bust cycles in the industry. Panelists will discuss fair payment, industry rates, and how to protect yourself financially at different stages of your career. The session will also dive into actionable strategies for networking and creating career opportunities, plus tips on personal branding through website design, emphasizing the importance of defining a niche and marketing yourself effectively in a competitive field. Additionally, the conversation will highlight the need for a high tolerance level for risk in this dynamic landscape and the importance of prioritizing mental health to sustain a long and fulfilling career.

With streaming dominating the revenue streams for documentaries these days, and with streamers nearly universally operated by large corporations, how do you plan for the release of your film when your film involves one such corporation? The film team behind Union was elated to premiere at the Sundance Film Festival, but they knew they would have a different road ahead than other films premiering there. Join producers Mars Verrone and Samantha Curley, director Stephen Maing, impact producer Eliza Licht and distribution consultant Michael Tuckman as they chat with Brian Newman of Sub-Genre Media about devising an alternative distribution plan before coming to market.

This panel dives into the evolving world of hybrid distribution, offering filmmakers a hands-on opportunity to brainstorm strategies in real time. Using live case studies from Pulkit Datta (Israelism) and Chithra Jeyaram (Amma’s Pride) and Michael Premo (Homegrown), panelists will explore the mix of traditional and digital platforms, navigating the balance between festivals, theatrical releases and streaming. Attendees will learn how to craft flexible, tailored distribution plans that maximize a film’s reach and impact. Join us for an interactive session where filmmakers can think creatively about their distribution options and tap into new ways of getting their stories out into the world.

With streaming dominating the revenue streams for documentaries these days, and with streamers nearly universally operated by large corporations, how do you plan for the release of your film when your film involves one such corporation? The film team behind Union was elated to premiere at the Sundance Film Festival, but they knew they would have a different road ahead than other films premiering there. Join producers Mars Verrone and Samantha Curley, director Stephen Maing, impact producer Eliza Licht and distribution consultant Michael Tuckman as they chat with Brian Newman of Sub-Genre Media about devising an alternative distribution plan before coming to market.

This panel delves into the current distribution challenges facing the documentary world. Using Gary Hustwit’s groundbreaking generative documentary Eno as a case study, moderator Amy Hobby (Distribution Advocates) and producers Jessica Edwards and Emily Rothschild explore how filmmakers can empower themselves and their films by shifting towards a distribution mindset that leverages the wealth of tools now at our disposal. From strategic partnerships and eventized screenings, to innovative digital platforms, this discussion will provide a roadmap for documentary filmmakers and producers to rethink the distribution landscape. Reimagine a future where creativity and collaboration can drive the success of independent documentaries.

This panel explores how distribution challenges have sparked the emergence of direct-to-audience platforms like Jolt, GATHR, and Kinema, turning obstacles into opportunities for filmmakers. Born out of necessity, digital platforms and grassroots marketing have become creative solutions to bypass traditional industry barriers. Moderated by Jon Reiss of 8Above, panelists Neil Williams (GATHR), Christie Marchese (Kinema), and Tara Hein-Phillips (Jolt) will share their 30,000-foot view on the evolution of audience-to-distribution techniques, highlighting how these methods expand opportunities to exhibit films. Discover how these innovative approaches allow filmmakers to build loyal audiences, sustain their creative independence, and earn revenue, driving the creation of new pathways to success in today’s film landscape.

Moderator: Sian-Pierre Regis (Duty Free)

Industry Panelists: Alex Holder (AJH Films), Robert Chang (American Documentary/POV), Trevite Willis (Best Yet Entertainment), Poh Si Teng (Independent Producer), and Brad Abramson (A&EIndieFilms).

Boom!, Director: Laura Placarte, Producers: Johnny Brewin, Mandy Chang. Champion fighter G-Air and driven Sonia are a boxing couple navigating the complexities of life.

EJ Lee: All American, Director: Jason Rhee, Producers: Zoe Sua Cho, Jason Rhee. EJ Lee, a Louisiana legend nicknamed the “Korean Magic Johnson of NCAA women’s basketball,” has been overlooked her entire career and finally, at the age of 60, EJ becomes a college head coach to lead an underdog team of young women in West Texas.

Kikuyu Land, Director: Andrew H. Brown, Bea Wangondu, Producers: Andrew H. Brown, Bea Wangondu, Joseph Njenga, Mike Morrisroe. In Kenya’s highlands, a Nairobi journalist returns to her ancestral home to cover a civil case against the British Crown and the largest British-owned corporation in Kenya.

Moderator: Sian-Pierre Regis (Duty Free)

Industry Panelists: Alex Holder (AJH Films), Robert Chang (American Documentary/POV),Trevite Willis (Best Yet Entertainment), Poh Si Teng (Independent Producer), and Brad Abramson (A&E IndieFilms).

Landscapes of Memory, Director: Leah Galant, Producer: Elijah Stevens. Weaving personal essay and intimate character studies, Landscapes of Memory explores Germany’s remembrance culture, and the uses and abuses of collective memory.

No Discount, Director: Shiraz Ahmed, Producer: Shiraz Ahmed. Detroit’s fight the odds to stay alive in a city marred by violence and crumbling health infrastructure. When a pandemic hits, a pastor, patient, and physician force us to consider what is truly needed to make this community whole.

The Hummingbird Paints Fragrant Songs, Director: Èlia Gasull Balada, Producers: Matteo Norzi, Maria Altamirano, Lucas Engel, Marc Clotet. Sara Flores, an Indigenous artist from the Peruvian Amazon, bursts into the contemporary art scene in her seventies. Despite a lifetime of hardship, she rejects the materialistic impulse for accumulation, channeling her newfound success to empower the resistance of the Shipibo Nation.

Moderator: Sian-Pierre Regis (Duty Free)

Industry Panelists: Alex Holder (AJH Films), Nell Augustin (NBCUniversal Original Voices Documentary Films), Megan Gelstein (Catapult Film Fund), Monika Navarro (Firelight Media), and Denise Greene (Black Public Media.)

The Hijacker, Director: Marco Williams, Producer: Danielle Beverly. The story of the 1971 hijacking of a Canadian airliner to Cuba, by a Black American Militant, and his capture thirty years later in New York three days before 9/11.

The United States of Urvashi, Director: Nancy Kates, Producer: Deepa Donde. An intimate portrait of the late activist and author Urvashi Vaid, examining her 40-year career as a queer agitator and thinker.

This is Not an Apple, Director: Nefise Özkal Lorentzen, Producer: Ola Hunnes. We meet three Palestinian siblings from a suburb in Oslo working for an apple farm.

Moderator: Sian-Pierre Regis (Duty Free)

Industry Panelists: Alex Holder (AJH Films), Nell Augustin (NBCUniversal Original Voices Documentary Films), Megan Gelstein (Catapult Film Fund), Monika Navarro (Firelight Media), and Denise Greene (Black Public Media.)

To Die for a Soul, Director and Producer: David Enrique Estrada. To Die for a Soul follows the lives of three Honduran men as they fight to survive a hurricane: a young man looking to migrate out of Honduras, a 94-year-old man who has saved hundreds from drowning in past storms, and a filmmaker facing his own thoughts on migration as a possible future for himself and his family.

Until the Buzzing Stops, Director: Abd al Kader Habak, Producer: Janay Boulos. Ali, a Syrian refugee in London who’s a beekeeper, dreams of building a bee farm to train and employ fellow refugees while saving the British native black honeybees from extinction.

Untitled Solidarity Project, Director: Yael Bridge, Producers: Yoni Golijov and Jeremy Flood. A mosaic portrait of the Teamster labor union’s massive campaign to organize 350,000 UPS workers across the United States in a collective fight for dignity and safety on the job.