The Conversation: Social Media, Digital Distribution and the Future of Film

What are the opportunities and challenges facing filmmakers in the digital age?

This spring, join us for a conversation — definitely not a typical conference — about social media, digital distribution, and storytelling opportunities in new media. We'll gather a group of pioneering filmmakers and industry executives at Columbia University to explore the opportunities and challenges of 2010 and beyond:

> How social media tools can help build an audience for your projects.

> How you can craft a digital distribution strategy that works.

> How storytellers are breaking out of the historic boundaries of "film" and telling stories using episodic video, apps, and games.

> How fans and followers online can be turned into supporters who show up at screenings, buy downloads and DVDs, and get engaged with causes.

> How you can develop a strategy that will sustain your creative endeavors over the long term.

[ Video from the 2010 Conversation is available here. ]

Our objective is for The Conversation to help cut through the noise and deliver useful information, out-of-the-box ideas, case studies, and advice from your peers. For the complete agenda and speaker list, visit http://theconversationspot.com.

We're filling the agenda with people who've actually done stuff (as opposed to self-proclaimed experts)... asking you for your suggestions about topics to cover through our wiki... creating time for you to ask questions and talk about the projects you are working on... and forming lunch discussion groups on the day of the event that can address questions and issues that you want to talk about.

To reserve your spot now (our 2008 event at UC/Berkeley sold out), select a ticket quantity above and click "Check Out with PayPal." For more information about The Conversation, see our site or blog. If you have questions, call or e-mail Alyssa Stern at 617.367.1400 or astern - at - futureforward - dot - com.

Thanks to the Columbia University School of the Arts, the Columbia Business School Media Program, and the Media Management Association for their support in producing this event. Thanks also to Alyssa Stern, Anna-Mae Chin, and J.D. Lasica for the photos that appear on this page.

IMPORTANT DETAILS: By registering for the conference, you agree that your image may be used in photographs/video of the event. Registration is non-refundable, but with at least 48 hours notice to the organizers, you may transfer your registration to another participant.

SPONSORS: If you are interested in helping to underwrite The Conversation and participate in the event as a sponsor, which includes numerous benefits, please contact Shayne Gilbert at 617.367.1400 or sgilbert - at - futureforward - dot - com.