Behind the Screens: How to be a Film Programmer
Mon 24 MarWhat is film programming? No, it doesn’t involve code! Every time you go to the cinema, or a film festival, or switch on Film4, someone chose that film you watched – no algorithms! You don’t need to know anything about film programming to join us – just bring your love of films, and a curiosity about how they make it to the big screen.
In this session, led by programmer Emily Steele-Dias, you’ll learn:
- What film programming actually is (and why it’s so important)
- How films are selected for festivals, cinemas, and events
- The practical details behind curating a great screening experience
- First steps to start programming films yourself
Whether you’re a film lover, aspiring festival curator, or just someone who wants to know what happens behind the screens, this workshop is the perfect place to start.
Emily Steele-Dias is a creative professional based in Peterborough, working as a freelance producer, curator, and artist. In 2017, she founded Cine-Sister CIC, an organisation dedicated to showcasing and promoting films by women filmmakers. In 2019, Cine-Sister CIC launched the Gateway Film Festival in Peterborough, a community-focused festival that celebrates a wide range of cinema while fostering connections within the local community. Gateway partners with various local organisations and groups to create a broad and eclectic programme including a fusion of film with other art forms such as dance, music, and poetry, engaging a wide range of audiences across the city. In 2023, Gateway Film Festival was selected to run the Film Hub South East branch of the BFI Spotlight project developing new long-term screening programmes with partners around Peterborough.
Young Film Network South East works with venues and organisations across the South East of England, with the aim of increasing access to and appreciation of cultural cinema among 16-25 year olds, and encourage a greater awareness of strategic progression routes for young people within the industry. Young Film Network is supported from both BFI Film Academy and the BFI Film Audience Network, awarding funds from the National Lottery.
