Distribution is changing. Learn what today’s filmmakers can take from New Day Films’ DIY roots in this webinar on self-distribution.
In 1971, four feminist filmmakers frustrated by mainstream distribution channels decided to do-it-themselves. Forming a collective, they began selling 16 mm prints directly to women’s groups, schools, and libraries — essentially by passing the mainstream system by creating their own — highlighting the power of collaboration and direct audience engagement. New Day Films is now a cooperative of over 140 filmmakers, but the educational market we’ve been relying on is no longer viable as it once was.
In 2025, filmmakers are being told that we need to become self-distributors all over again. So what does this mean? What can we learn from the spirit of these early pioneers, and what collective wisdom can we lean on now? Jesse is a long-time member of New Day Films and has had a very successful educational run with her series BODY TYPED: Perfection in 3 Parts. She has just finished a new 30 min doc and has been taking a deep dive into the current climate & resources of self-distribution. She’ll present a short overview of New Day Films, some current resources — and facilitate a conversation about creative ways we filmmakers can come together to support each other now.
Jesse Ericka Epstein is a Sundance Award-Winning documentary filmmaker. She received a Masters Degree in Documentary Filmmaking from NYU, and was named one of “25 filmmakers to watch” by Filmmaker Magazine. Her films have screened in over 40 film festivals worldwide, at The Museum of Modern Art (MoMA), MaSS MoCA, The Peabody Museum, and Beurs van Berlage in Amsterdam. Jesse’s film 34x25x36 received a national PBS Broadcast on POV. Her film WET DREAMS AND FALSE IMAGES received a short subject Jury Award at the Sundance Film Festival, and her film THE GUARANTEE won best short film at the Newport International Film Festival. Her compilation of these films, BODY TYPED: Perfection in 3 Parts, has been distributed to over 150 Colleges and Universities through the filmmaker owned & operated coop New Day Films.
Distribution can feel like the most confusing (and intimidating) part of the filmmaking process—but it doesn’t have to be!
Join us for a lunchtime webinar on Distribution!
This will be the first in a three-part series, covering a subject that can be overwhelming to many filmmakers — and crucial to understand, if you want your films to be seen, and make money!
We will kick it off with award-winning documentary filmmaker Kathryn Dietz, who will talk us through how film distribution works, which markets to consider, how to be eligible for these markets, and much more.
In subsequent weeks we will dig down on self-distribution, and how to work with distributors.
FREE for FC Members, $25 for non-members
Presented by the Boston International Kids Film Festival and Families Creating Together
Join us for a heartwarming and engaging event that brings communities together through the magic of storytelling! This special event celebrates the power of film in fostering inclusion, connection, and creativity. Enjoy a curated selection of family-friendly short films that highlight diverse stories of children and families worldwide.
Following the screening, engage in a hands-on workshop designed to spark creativity and reflection. This is a wonderful opportunity for families to come together, be inspired, and participate in an interactive experience that reinforces the importance of belonging.
BIKFF will be putting on a hands-on workshop for attendees following the screening!
This one-day workshop is designed to equip filmmakers and emerging media professionals with a strong foundation and practical insights for budgeting independently produced feature films.
We’ll explore approaches to budgeting both scripted and documentary projects. Topics include cost estimation and allocation, scheduling, crew planning, legal compliance, and financial management from development through post.
Whether you’re planning your first feature or developing your next short film, this workshop offers actionable strategies and industry insights to help you build budgets that support your production goals and creative vision.
Space is limited! We encourage early registration to secure your spot.
Dive into the world of filmmaking this summer with our exciting and immersive program!
Lights, camera, action! FC Academy, our summer filmmaking program, offers young aspiring filmmakers the opportunity to explore the art and craft of cinematic storytelling in a dynamic and supportive environment. Whether you’re a beginner eager to learn the basics or a budding auteur looking to hone your skills, our program is designed to inspire creativity and foster technical proficiency.
During the program, participants will:
- Learn the fundamentals of screenwriting, directing, cinematography, editing, and sound design from experienced industry professionals.
- Collaborate with fellow filmmakers to bring your ideas to life through hands-on projects and exercises.
- Gain practical experience using professional-grade equipment and software
- Receive personalized feedback and guidance to help you grow as a storyteller and filmmaker.
But it’s not all work and no play! In addition to honing your craft, you’ll have the opportunity to:
- Soak up the sun and draw inspiration from the stunning natural beauty of our summer location.
Connect with like-minded creatives and forge lasting friendships with fellow film enthusiasts.
- Screen your creations at our end-of-program showcase and celebrate your achievements with friends, family, and industry professionals.
- Don’t let this summer pass you by without pursuing your passion for filmmaking! Join us for an unforgettable experience that will ignite your imagination, expand your skills, and kickstart your journey in the world of cinema.
Ready to roll? Apply now and embark on your cinematic adventure with us!
FREE EVENT
In this immersive experience, aspiring filmmakers aged 12-17 will have the unique opportunity to capture the electrifying energy of live music at the Lynn Music Festival and turn it into captivating content to be shared on social media platforms. This bootcamp is free of charge, but space is limited, so don’t miss your chance to be part of this exhilarating filmmaking experience!
• Hands-On Experience: Get ready to dive into the heart of filmmaking as you learn essential techniques for shooting, editing, and storytelling under the guidance of experienced mentors.
• Live Music Excitement: Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of the Lynn Music Festival as you capture dynamic performances by talented musicians from various genres.
• Creative Collaboration: Collaborate with fellow participants to brainstorm ideas, plan shots, and bring your vision to life through teamwork and creativity.
• Promotional Content Creation: Learn how to tailor your footage into compelling promotional content designed to captivate audiences on social media platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube.
June 21 7PM-8PM (via Zoom)
June 22 8AM-3PM (in-person)
How to Register:
To secure your spot, please contact: Rachel St. Pierre at Rachel@filmmakerscollab.org
So many film festivals…so little time and money to spend submitting to them! How can you determine which event might be the best fit for your project? How likely is it that they will lead to a distribution deal for my film? These questions and more will be discussed at the next FC lunchtime webinar!
Please join us in a roundtable discussion led by Marga Varea of Twin Seas Media. Marga is a distribution strategist, impact producer and founder of Twin Seas Media who is passionate about merging traditional and non-traditional strategies to build successful distribution pathways for documentary films.
Marga will chat about what she is seeing currently and how filmmakers she works with are finding success. Please bring your questions because there will be plenty of time for Q&A.
JOIN US ON SATURDAY MORNINGS!
April 29 – May 20 (4 sessions)
Learn how to use your smartphone to make a short film! In this workshop you will get tips on moving image storytelling, camerawork, sound recording, and editing on Adobe Premiere to make professional quality video. Students complete a series of assignments and upon completion will have a final project they can share on social networks.
Filmmakers often use visual effects to enhance a story by bringing to life believable characters, worlds, and stunts. But, how can we do that on time and on budget as an independent filmmaker?
Join us for a Zoom roundtable discussion with visual effects artist, Jimi Simmons. Jimi will present VFX techniques demonstrated in today’s most popular software tools as well as draw from his years of experience working on films such as RISING SUN, SPAWN and DECEPTION.
Meet Jimi Simmons: For the last 35 years, my career has been in the film industry, specializing in visual effects. Most of this time was spent in Northern California, which at the time was a Mecca for independent filmmakers. This allowed me to work in various film genres with a wide array of directors, from dedicated storytellers like Francis Ford Coppola to visionary image makers like George Lucas. It’s been a fantastic experience with many lessons learned, and I enjoy sharing them.
LUNCHTIME WEBINAR: SOUND RECORDING – from in the field to your final product, how to make you and your sound designer and mixer happy!
Join us as we discuss sound recording and mixing with Ian Hatton and Steve Drown. We all know that recording quality sound when shooting on location is essential to a great project. Ian and Steve will discuss techniques for recording sound in the field that will save time, money and work in post production. There will be lots of time for Q&A so please bring your questions.
Ian bio: Ian’s career started as a guitar player / songwriter recording and touring from a young age. Composing, performing, recording and producing music for over 30 years Ian was the driving force within numerous bands, such as “Bonham”, who went Gold with their debut album. He has also performed and recorded with many artists, including Paul Rodgers & Company, Robert Plant’s Honeydrippers, and Sarah Brightman to name a few.
Always heavily involved in the writing, creation and production process naturally he would progress into Music Production, TV and Film Scoring. Ian has also been a consultant for Bose corporation exploring all the possibilities of surround sound making him extremely well versed in 5.1 productions. Ian’s background includes all facets of music – from playing to producing, he creates unique, carefully crafted compositions with inspiring sound design, always recorded to the utmost quality.
Steve Drown’s bio: Steve Drown has been an independent recording engineer for the last 21 years and a professional musician for nearly 30. He has a BM in music production and engineering from Berklee College of Music and works as an engineer at The Studio, which provides state‐of‐the‐art recording, digital editing and more, in downtown Portland. Steve’s forte is making good musicians sound great — often in ways they don’t expect. He has worked with James Cotton, Charlie Musselwhite, Ronnie Earl, Roy Scheider, Patty Larkin, Kate Schrock, and Ron Carter, among other musicians. He excels at creating an atmosphere in which artists can perform their best work.
