NEWS

Part of Pittsburgh Shorts & Script Competition, this three-day conference is packed with industry professionals and panel discussions, all conveniently located at EVEN Hotel in Downtown Pittsburgh. Whether you’re an established filmmaker or a moviegoer who’s curious about the film industry, come and be a part of Pittsburgh’s thriving arts community!

The conference kicks off at 11 AM on Friday, November 22 with a conversation between legendary film producer Christine Vachon (Past Lives, May/December, Boys Don’t Cry, and so many more!) and Kathryn Spitz Cohan, Executive Director of Film Pittsburgh. Then, conference passholders will join one of Pittsburgh’s premiere location managers and a former curator of architecture at Carnegie Museum of Art on a bus tour of the Steel City, where you’ll see why Pittsburgh is such a great place to shoot films.

Film producer Mariana Méndez will moderate Saturday’s discussion, “Beyond the Lens: Embracing Diversity and Inclusion in Film,” where we’ll hear how industry professionals are working to level the playing field. This panel features filmmaker Emmai Alaquiva, public television producer Minette Seate, and Ron Finley, the Gangsta Gardener.

Mariana Méndez and AP movie critic Lindsey Bahr will close out the conference on Sunday with a discussion, “Publicity, Reviews, and the Oscars: Important or Not?” They’ll dig into the business of promoting films, the merits of critical recognition, and much more.

All morning conference sessions will be preceded by a 10:30 AM buffet-style brunch, included with your conference ticket or pass.

We can’t wait to connect with you!

See the full schedule + buy tickets

Photo: A snapshot from the 2023 Filmmaker Conference, captured by Porter Loves.