Opens at 8:00am. Hassle Free Check-in to Receive Your Badge & Program: Our friendly team is ready to greet you with a smile, armed with answers to your every query & maybe even a few event secrets.

Our eatery & tavern offers a welcoming ambiance that invites you to linger, indulge, & network. Whether you're craving tasty, on-the-go cuisine or looking to treat yourself to a refreshing beverage break, our venue provides the perfect setting to unwind & connect

Dive into the world of acting with our comprehensive overview workshop, presented by Hollywood acting coaches who work with high-profile talent. This session is designed to introduce you to the most influential acting techniques and methodologies, providing you with a solid foundation to enhance your craft. Join us for this insightful session and take the first step towards deepening your acting expertise!

Embark on a journey of creative exploration with our dynamic Speed Pitching event, where writers and storytellers converge to pitch their compelling narratives to esteemed production houses and industry executives in a “speed dating” like setting.

1st & 2nd Floors: At the EXPO: This expo is designed to showcase the latest advancements in equipment, tools, & methodologies that are transforming the landscape of our industry. The FILM MARKET: provides an opportunity for domestic & foreign producers to showcase their titles to buyers & distributors. From revolutionary VFX advancements to

On-site screening series will feature a captivating array of films from around the globe, captivating its engaged industry audience. From scrappy independents to studio fare, AFC's screenings aim to drive commerce & celebrate the art of filmmaking. Showcase your projects & discover new opportunities for distribution & promotion among industry peers.

Writing a successful screenplay is more than just storytelling. Writers first need to know who they are as writers and understand what thematic story they tell over and over again in different iterations. In some cases, it’s original ideas. Oftentimes, it’s transforming existing IP for the screen. This knowledge enables writers not only to write compelling original scripts but also to identify their personal connection to any story so that they can pitch themselves for any project, be that project an existing script, idea, book, graphic novel, play or article. From understanding your POV with original material, to learning the art of adaptation, this session will explore what it takes to put all the pieces together.

Master the art of auditioning with Celebrity Booking/Acting Coach Amy Lyndon. Voted one of the “Top Audition Technique Teachers” by Backstage.com for 4 years, she has 56 Series Regulars and an Emmy Winner for a reason. Amy will show you how to excel in your auditions with her "15 Guideline Map To Booking Technique." You will learn how to enhance your performance and overall presentation, some techniques on how to deal with those pesky nerves, the philosophy of booking and how to prepare properly when breaking down scenes. Feel confident and stand out in that sea of actors competing for your job.

Join filmmakers from the International Youth Media Summit who will share what they learned from the twists and turns faced by their global peers: an Iranian embedded in a Covid ward, an Afghan detained by the Taliban, a Pakistani shot leaving the set of his first feature. Be inspired by clips from these and other movies from around the world, featuring films just completed at our event in Zanzibar, East Africa. We have seen proof that American filmmakers benefit when they explore the rest of the world. Unique creative approaches and technical innovations are found even in the most unlikely places. Training in cultural differences, and mutually beneficial collaborations are just a few of the benefits we have discovered on other continents. We'll also share with you our catalog of global filmmakers (talented young and seasoned professionals): film and media instructors; social issue and cultural experts; and workshop leaders..

Chris Vogler's 12-stage interpretation of the Hero's Journey has guided screenwriters and novelists for decades and is now inspiring musicians and game designers to create captivating works based on his theories. In this presentation he will unveil some of the secret principles that make stories and characters compelling and will show you how give them some of the depth of feeling that you get from a myth or a fairy tale. With many years of experience in story development at Hollywood studios, and a lifetime of exploring the wisdom of myth, Vogler will expand the possibilities for your own writing journey.

Award-winning film producer Suzanne Lyons demystifies the entire production process from concept through distribution, including forming your LLC, legal contracts, fundraising and creating your pitch deck. Learn practical strategies for building your timeline, effective marketing and networking and managing on-set dynamics. Suzanne’s hands-on approach and practical advice will help you avoid pitfalls and rediscover the fun in the producing process.

Ready to ignite your comedic timing and acting versatility? This dynamic workshop is designed to take your comedic skills to the next level, blending the spontaneity of improv with the tools of scripted comedy. Join Shari Shaw - one of Hollywood’s top acting and performance coaches! Working with A-list TV & movie stars, new actors and everyone in between, she's developed sure-fire methods to help performers Get Prepped, Get Pumped, Get Focused, Get Confident and Get the Job.

Sound is one of the sneakiest ways to save money and still deliver a big cinematic experience. Join us for a deep conversation about when, how and what to account for in budgeting for sound on your project.

Thinking on your feet helps you be more memorable and adaptable as an actor and in life, no matter your career trajectory. Step into the exhilarating world of improvisation with our hands-on workshop! Join Devorah "Devo" Cutler - stand-up comedian, comedy writer and teacher of actors, writers, producers and directors at USC and UCLA, among others. Perfect for actors or anyone eager to boost their creative confidence, this workshop promises an engaging and supportive environment in which to explore the art of spontaneous performance. Sharing her passion for improv, you will discover the power of collective imagination and storytelling as you learn a variety of exercises designed to enhance your quick-thinking skills, adaptability and creativity.

Given that the Paramount Consent Decrees have sunsetted this year, theater chains are now able to acquire and/or exhibit independent movies and partner with indie filmmakers - even owning a piece of the IP. Learn from innovative filmmakers getting their movies in theaters without distributors. Discover how they are investing their own time, sweat and money to craft their own theatrical releases and strategize alternative marketing plans including free roadshow focus group tests to prove audiences will pack theaters across the nation - even for ultra-low budget films.

Filmmakers have been hit with an earthquake of change and intense pressure which feels relentless. Inflation, dwindling personal finances and work inconsistency, being asked to do more with lower budgets, finding new ways to create miracles, multiple back to back strikes and figuring out how to “survive until 2025” based on unique skills for side hustles. In this session, you will learn how to achieve success with proven techniques so you show up as the most powerful version of you. We will dive into shifting your mindset for growth, how to control your stress and not let it control you by honestly evaluating your own tendencies toward perfectionism and workaholism. Create easy to do self-care practices so you are depositing “self-care bucks” into your health bank account. View energy as a key driver for creativity and inspiration. Focus on daily gratitude as the ripple effect for attracting future success.

Spend up-close and personal time with Acting, Comedy and Improv Coaches Amy Lyndon, Shari Shaw and Devorah “Devo” Cutler-Rubenstein.

This panel brings together a seasoned sales agent and knowledgeable distributor with specific expertise in the current indie “sweet spot” to shed light on how to navigate the traditional and emerging investment models for low to moderate low budget film projects and maximize the value of your content. Decode strategies for increasing your film's value to attract investors. Discover how to collaborate effectively with sales agents and distributors to building strong partnerships to achieve communal financial success.
·     Marc Clebanoff, Global Sales Agent, Capital Creative Management
·     Andreas Ollivaria, CEO, Level 33 Distribution 
·     PR/Publicity/Marketing

From the major subscription players to the TVOD platforms, the niche players to the booming FAST Channels, these industry professionals will share insights about their models and how to make films successful there.

Join us to explore how AI is revolutionizing the entertainment industry. We will discuss cutting-edge advancements, practical applications in filmmaking, and the impact on content creation and audience engagement. This panel is perfect for those interested in the integration of AI in their work.

Encouraging actors to take charge of their financial literacy can lead to greater stability and freedom in their careers. Emphasizing the proactive management of finances will empower them to focus on their craft while securing their financial future. Join Steven Adams, speaker and world-renowned producer on projects such as "A Huey P. Newton Story", "Avatar" and "Thor", as he continues his mission to uplift and educate others. Touching on everything from budgeting basics and tax fundamentals to multiple revenue streams and investments, he will help actors devise a game plan to navigate financial challenges inherent to pursuing and maintaining a career in the entertainment industry. Steven's management clients appear on such shows as Yellowstone, SWAT, Emily in Paris, Money Heist, Blood & Water, Law and Order, and Power, amongst many others.

Opens at 8:00am. Hassle Free Check-in to Receive Your Badge & Program: Our friendly team is ready to greet you with a smile, armed with answers to your every query & maybe even a few event secrets.

Our eatery & tavern offers a welcoming ambiance that invites you to linger, indulge, & network. Whether you're craving tasty, on-the-go cuisine or looking to treat yourself to a refreshing beverage break, our venue provides the perfect setting to unwind & connect

In the demanding world of acting, where emotional depth and vulnerability are crucial, maintaining wellness and mental health can often be overlooked. This session aims to address the vital importance of nurturing both physical and mental well-being for actors to thrive both on and off set. We’ll explore how the rigorous demands of the profession - long hours, intense emotional experiences and the pressures of public scrutiny - can impact an actor’s health. And, we'll empower actors with the tools and knowledge needed to prioritize their self-care while pursuing their passion.

Respected industry expert and authority on technology trends, Lori H. Schwartz, will provide a brief overview, putting the day’s topics into context. From AI to VFX, to the business models emerging out of cutting-edge marketing and advertising technology: get ahead of the curve (or catch up!) with meaningful advice on how to navigate our industry’s iterative technological revolutions – and the business-to-consumer opportunities they present.

1^ST AND 2^ND FLOOR EVENT SPACE

1st & 2nd Floors: At the EXPO: This expo is designed to showcase the latest advancements in equipment, tools, & methodologies that are transforming the landscape of our industry. The FILM MARKET: provides an opportunity for domestic & foreign producers to showcase their titles to buyers & distributors. From revolutionary VFX advancements to

There could be 3 industry representatives (Agent, Manager, Attorney) sharing how their work with actors, writers and directors influences a career.  They also share how artists can prepare for pitching them on representation, and the best way to approach them.

On-site screening series will feature a captivating array of films from around the globe, captivating its engaged industry audience. From scrappy independents to studio fare, AFC's screenings aim to drive commerce & celebrate the art of filmmaking. Showcase your projects & discover new opportunities for distribution & promotion among industry peers.

In order to secure entertainment financing, distribution and the right creative collaborators, revolutionary VFX changes have raised professional expectations for proof-of-concept and pre-viz materials from sizzle reels to production blueprints and overviews. See samples and discover savvy new strategies.

Where Experts Delve Into Specialized Topics to Enhance Your Knowledge & Skills: Soundtracks, Screenwriting, Directing, Cinematography, Movie Makeup, Editing, History, Digital Filmmaking, Independent Film Challenges, Distribution, Stunts, Financing, Film Ethics, & Global Cinema.

Take a deep dive into the craft of acting with our Scene Study Workshop, where you’ll explore and refine your skills through intensive scene work. Actors will get the opportunity to dissect, practice and perfect scenes from a range of genres, enhancing your understanding of character development, text analysis and performance techniques. Join us for an enriching experience that will elevate your acting skills and bring new dimensions to your performances!

This panel will delve into the transformative impact of their festival, a unique platform dedicated to amplifying independent producers from diverse cultural backgrounds. Discover how the OCCF creates a dynamic space for showcasing innovative television and OTT content, providing emerging talent with invaluable opportunities to present their original works to prominent buyers and industry leaders.

Film and media come together to become the most powerful form of communication, and ultimately a great tool for change. As we've seen a great number of narrative and documentary projects developed and released into the world, many with comprehensive impact campaigns, it's clear this world could use more of this content. Join these impact filmmakers and leaders as they share their experiences in making and releasing this entertainment for change.

Leveraging AI to accelerate your speed and efficiency is a hotly debated topic. Learn from professionals effectively developing and using cutting-edge software from development and pre-production through producing generative content and procedural workflows. Use ChatGPT5.0 or Google’s Gemini to help you outline and even write your scripts, loglines, synopses and character breakdowns. Tag a script and break down a schedule in seconds. Create and analyze content.

Step into the dynamic world of voiceover casting! In this session, Cathy Kalmenson will share how Kalmenson & Kalmenson caters to the needs of producers and the broadcast/production community by precisely matching creative specifications with the right voice talent. She will also explore how they empower voice actors and talent agents through their comprehensive talent database. By ensuring the right voices are brought in for auditions, they significantly enhance booking potential - moving beyond the traditional "cattle-call" approach. Additionally, she’ll discuss their renowned training programs designed for dedicated performers, equipping them with the skills and techniques that keep them competitive in the ever-evolving voiceover landscape. With real-time insights from producers, they stay ahead of industry trends, ensuring their talent is always in-demand. Discover why Kalmenson & Kalmenson is synonymous with top-quality voice casting and training!

No matter how great of a composer is on your project, there's a good chance that the music will need extensive tweaking as the cut evolves to fit the timing of the finished product. Music editing is crucial in today's rapidly paced world of post production. Come learn from some of the brightest music editors in our field about the art of great music editorial.

As veteran Sales Reps, the founders of IndieRights share insights on the changing landscape of international sales and distribution, from developing your marketing materials, through the delivery to streaming platforms, and everything in between.

You’ve heard all the buzzwords but … do you understand all - or any? - of it? Maybe you’re already investing as an individual but want to learn how blockchain has provided a technical foundation for Bitcoin crypto currency and NFTs (Non-Fungible Tokens) as crypto assets as revolutionary funding tools. Don’t be embarrassed: it won’t be over your head (nor will it be boring if you think you know it all!) Discover how independent filmmakers and content creators are leveraging this new crypto ecosystem to fund their projects. Learn about the potential benefits (and pitfalls) while we unveil some real-world examples of successful (and unsuccessful) film projects funded through crypto and NFTs.

The Fred Ross Project” team and provides a perspective on the relationship between filmmaker and composer and the unique process of crafting a film’s soundscape.

Are you an actor looking to expand your skill set and enhance your versatility? There are essential tools that every actor should have in their repertoire. Whether you're preparing for diverse roles in film, theater or voice acting, this session covers crucial techniques, skills and training to elevate your performance. Join singer and vocal coach Julian Miranda and actor and stunt choreographer Alfred Hsing for a comprehensive exploration of the tools every actor needs to thrive in today's competitive entertainment industry. Whether you're aiming for the stage, screen, or studio, this workshop will empower you to elevate your performances and stand out in auditions.

Learn from industry veterans as they illustrate the importance of branding and marketing to general and niche audiences, and how to drive sales for live events and drive traffic to your VOD platform.

Join three filmmakers: from Savannah, GA, the US’s #1 Small Town Indie Haven; New Zealand, home of Hobbits, Avatars and 40% rebates; and Mérida, Yucatán, Mexico, with its diverse locations and cost-effective virtual studios. Discover more about their unique aesthetics and cultural appeal, indie film scenes, tax schemes, government incentives, local talent and crew resources, infrastructure, facilities and support available for productions. Learn about both big and small successful films shot in each location, the role of emerging technologies and the future of filmmaking in these regions.

From virtual and traditional product placement and branded entertainment to celebrity and influencer strategies, discover new monetization models emerging on our constantly evolving marketplace.  

This talented artist shares how he took control of his own destiny by developing his own projects (including co-founding Slamdance) outside the Hollywood system, getting them made and establishing a successful release campaign. Join us as we explore what pathways lie ahead in the future.

1-on-1 with Dialect, Vocal, Stunt Coaches

Embark on a deep dive into the intricate world of the acting industry with this comprehensive session on "The Business of Acting." Helming this insightful session is Wendy Alane Wright - Hollywood Talent Manager and the Founder of Hollywood Winners Circle Academy, the industry standard in acting business training. Tailored for actors at all stages of their careers, she will offer invaluable guidance on navigating the professional landscape with confidence and strategy. Explore how to effectively market yourself on and offline, learn how to craft an authentic and compelling brand story that grabs casting directors' attention and leave equipped with the knowledge and tools needed to thrive in the competitive field of acting.

Join YouTube’s favorite scam-busting duo with over 70 million views, Ashton Bingham and Art Kulik of Trilogy Media, as they reveal not just how modern consumer identify theft and phishing scams work but how to immediately identify and avoid nefarious entertainment industry crooks, phoneys and bad actors so you can protect your ASSets.
Ashton Bingham, Co-Founder, Trilogy Media
Art Kulik, Co-Founder, Trilogy Media

After the sun sets on the convention floor, the real magic begins at our after-parties. Imagine a blend of networking, laughter, & pure celebration under the glow of neon lights & upbeat tunes. It's where industry titans mingle with rising stars over cocktails that sparkle as brightly as the conversations. From impromptu dance-offs to insightful industry gossip, our after-parties are where the convention's buzz transforms into unforgettable memories.