Industrial Revelations/2023/Australia/Panel

Even prior to COVID, the local and international world of film distribution and exhibition was undergoing somewhat of a revolution.

New streaming technologies that provided ubiquitous access, horizontally integrated companies that controlled all aspects of production, distribution and exhibition, an arguably diminishing pool of quality theatrical releases, economic pressures from COVID and potentially unsustainable business practices all have had major impacts on the distribution and exhibition sector.

This heavy-hitting panel discussion grills some of Australia’s most highly regarded practitioners from the area, allows them to lay out their tarot cards and provide us with a glimpse into the future of distribution, exhibition and film festivals. What do these rapid changes in a dynamic media environment mean for filmmakers and how may they chart a course through these increasingly choppy and unpredictable waters?

Panelists Feature:

• Ari Harrison: Head of Sales and Acquisitions, Umbrella Entertainment
• Edwina Waddy: Head of Australian Content, Roadshow Films
• Julie Ryan: Producer, Cyan Films
• Chair: Richard Sowada, Director Revelation & St Kilda Film Festivals