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As creators, understanding the landscape of film festivals is vital to the success of our projects. With numerous festivals vying for attention, how do independent filmmakers know where to submit their films? In a recent conversation during NAB 2025, Katie Bignell, founder of Festival Formula, shared her insights into festival strategies and the unique needs of filmmakers navigating this intricate terrain.
Understanding the Importance of Film Festival Strategy
Katie emphasized that festival strategy for independent creators is often overlooked, much like the importance of financial literacy in school. With over 21 years of experience, she founded Festival Formula to provide much-needed support for filmmakers looking to navigate the myriad of film festivals available today.
“This strategy is not just about getting into festivals, but about finding the right ones for your film,” Katie explains. She helps filmmakers realistically assess their work and match it with festivals that suit their unique styles, rather than casting a wide net on larger, prestigious festivals that may not align with their film's goals.
Navigating the Festival Landscape
Types of Festivals
The variety of film festivals can be vast, with each targeting different audiences. Katie highlights two main categories:
Industry-led Festivals: Major names like Cannes and Venice are primarily focused on industry insiders—including producers, agents, and press. While such festivals can elevate visibility, they may not offer the intimate experience some filmmakers seek.
Audience-focused Festivals: These festivals prioritize creating a warm connection with attendees, making them ideal for filmmakers looking to engage directly with their audience. Festivals such as Up Tilt Film Festival exemplify this community-driven ethos, where personal interactions and supportive atmospheres are prioritized.
The Unique Experience at Up Tilt Film Festival
Katie recently attended Up Tilt Film Festival in Wilmington, North Carolina, a gathering centered on female filmmakers. She noted its unique format, which fosters community through single-session screenings that encourage connections among filmmakers. Attendees can bond over shared experiences without the pressure of competing schedules, enhancing the shared celebration of storytelling.
“Experiences like the ‘low country boil’ dinner create meaningful connections,” Katie mentioned, highlighting how intimate events enrich the festival experience beyond just showcasing films.
New Developments at Festival Formula
In her ongoing commitment to improving access for filmmakers, Katie revealed that Festival Formula is evolving to offer more affordable packages focused on strategy rather than submission management alone. This development allows filmmakers to access vital guidance tailored to their needs, encouraging them to take a more informed approach to festival submissions.
“We're excited about offering new packages so we can help more filmmakers strategize effectively,” Katie noted. This shift allows her team to focus on empowering filmmakers to present their work with greater understanding and intention.
By focusing on strategic, personalized submissions over prestige-driven goals, filmmakers can save time, resources, and emotional energy—ultimately increasing their chances of success. As Katie Bignell reminds us, it’s not just about getting into festivals; it’s about getting into the right ones. With the right guidance, your festival journey can become a powerful extension of your storytelling.
