Filmmakers who enter the film festival system for the first time are often taken aback: at the expense of the submission process, at the astronomically small chances of playing in a top-tier festival, and at the even grimmer prospects for reaping some financial reward for one’s work.

Film Festival Secrets is the starting point for your movie’s successful run on the festival circuit. Or perhaps it is the resource that helps you take control of your film’s path already in progress. Either way, there’s a lot to learn so let’s get started.

• My new book Film Festival Secrets: A Handbook for Independent Filmmakers is now available for order from Amazon.com! There are three ways to read the book: the print edition, the downloadable PDF, or online.

• The blog is my ongoing exploration of film festival strategies, trends, and news. Learn about festivals, the evolving world of indie film distribution, and new opportunities for filmmakers by visiting regularly.

• When you’re ready to take the next step in giving your film its best possible festival run, hire me to apply my festival strategy and marketing techniques to your film. My knowledge of the festival circuit and my connections to festivals around the world can work for you at very affordable rates. (Looking for some help with your short film? Check out the $99 Short Special!)