A MESSAGE FROM MIFILM

There may be a recession, but this is not the time to shrink—it’s time to create, connect, and get visionary. And while the timeline might be a mess and SINNERS has us in a chokehold, remember: you still got time to dust off that futuristic fantasy script and Make News with us.

This week’s newsletter is a power-packed roundup of resources, deadlines, events, and IRL opportunities for filmmakers looking to make an impact. Whether you're submitting a film, attending a workshop, or showing up to pitch your wildest idea, we’ve got the tools and community to back you.

Let’s get into it.

Next Up

OFFICE HOURS: Navigating Indie Distribution in 2025

🗓️ Monday, April 29
⏰ 12:00 PM EST | 💻 Zoom
With Kelli McNeil-Yellen (DARUMA, Slamdance ‘24)
Founder of KLA Media Group, strategist, producer & award-winning PR mind.

🎯 What We’ll Cover:

• What’s changed for indie film distribution in 2025

• Why clarity (not chaos) is your biggest asset

• How to market your film through identity & authenticity

• What pitch materials actually open doors

• Real case studies, strategic templates & deck links

This is one of our most actionable sessions yet. Come ready to take notes, ask questions, and map your next move.

REGISTER NOW →

BE YOU FEST presented by eres — We’re Popping Up!

 Saturday, May 3
📍 BronxNet Studios, 441 Westchester Ave, Bronx, NY
🎟️ Get Tickets →
💸 Use code MIF15 for 15% OFF (expires 4/21!)

BE YOU FEST isn’t just another event— but a cultural shift for creatives to own their narrative and take up space, blending the best of a film festival and a media conference—all within a dynamic, multi-sensory space.We're hosting a MiFILM-curated screening + activation inside the Be You Fest experience—a hybrid media conference meets creative festival all about owning your voice and taking up space.

💥 What to Expect:

• Immersive art & film installations

• Scented spaces & curated soundscapes

• Skill-building workshops & panels

• Authentic networking with fellow creators

Ticket Options:
🎟️ Creator Pass $39 | Visionary Pass $59 | Icon Pass $79 (includes VIP panel access + goodies)

🧃 Good vibes. Great people. A creative space built for YOU.

Shiny x MiFILM Parternship

 🎬 Deadline: April 28
🌍 Location: London | Uncommon Creative Studio
🆓 Free entry for the first 10 MiFILM members (normally £29)
🔗 Submit Here →

SHINY is here—and we’ve teamed up to amplify underrepresented filmmakers in advertising.
Got a bold short film under 5 mins? Submit for a chance to screen in front of the British Arrows 2024 Agency of the Year—Uncommon.

🏆 Winners receive:

• Meetings with major industry leaders

• Inclusion in the SHINY shortlist

• Strategic career support and mentorship

Let’s get your work in front of the right eyes. Don’t sleep on this one.

THE GOTHAM MARKET

🗓️ Regular Deadline: April 17 ($25)
🗓️ Extended Deadline: May 1 ($45)
🔗 Apply via The Gotham →

The Gotham Week Project Market is the largest curated marketplace for independent creators in the U.S. Whether you’re developing a feature, doc, or short-to-feature project, this is where funders, agents, and distributors meet the next wave of storytellers.

📍 September 29–October 3 | Brooklyn, NY
🌟 Recent alum include: All Dirt Roads Taste of Salt, Dìdi, Nanny, Ascension

Must be a Gotham Essentials or Insiders Member to apply.

📌 TL;DR – Upcoming Deadlines & Events

📅 April 17 – Regular Deadline for Gotham Week
📅 April 21 – Last day to use discount code MIF15 for BE YOU FEST
📅 April 28 – Final Deadline for Make News Showcase & SHINY Awards
📅 April 29 – Office Hours w/ Kelli McNeil-Yellen
📅 May 1 – Extended Deadline for Gotham Week
📅 May 3 – MiFILM Activation at BE YOU FEST
📅 May 6 – SHINY Showcase Event in London

👀 Wanna Be Featured in the Next Issue?

Got a screening, residency, grant, or film drop coming up? Hit reply or send us your announcement for a chance to be spotlighted next week to [email protected]

This has been a transmission from the Ryan Coogler Cinematic Universe™. Don’t get got, it’s crazy out there. 📺

Where talent meets opportunity.