I GOT INTO A FESTIVAL. NOW WHAT? By Susan Youssef


1. DO go to all the parties.
Schmooze. Make friends. Even if you sit at the bar, drinking alone and feeling pathetic. It’s good practice. You will make friends by just being out there.


2. DO approach filmmakers whose films you liked.
Give them a copy of your film.


3. DO NOT GET DRUNK.


4. DO NOT GO HOME WITH THE GORGEOUS FILMMAKER FROM A DISTANT CITY.
You don’t want to burn any bridges or build bridges that go down the wrong roads. You are a professional. Remember that.


5. DO go to panels and learn.
South By Southwest, for example, has wonderful panels on things like festival distribution.