Selling a film or tv show isn't just about the final cut. It’s about strategy. Join us for a comprehensive three-part series this year that breaks down the essential marketing pillars of the industry: Positioning, Creative, and Campaign. By looking through the lens of studios and distributors, we'll help you bridge the gap between creative vision and a viable business model. Please note: This panel will be both in-person and virtual/livestreamed!

Part 1 | HOW CREATORS ATTRACT DISTRIBUTORS: POSITIONING, AUDIENCE, AND THE INVESTOR PITCH

Can you prove your project has a clear, funded path to its audience?

Whether you are seeking a studio deal or raising the capital to go it alone, this opening session of our 3-part series in partnership with LA Film School reveals how to look at your project from the "outside in." We bridge the gap between your artistic vision and the marketplace by teaching you to think "downstream" before you even hit principal photography.

In this live, interactive panel and Q & A, we’ll break down the high-level components of a pitch that wins.

Topics include:

The Anatomy of the Pitch: Breaking down the essential components of a high-level pitch deck.
Strategic Positioning: How to articulate your project's unique space in the market.
The Data-Backed Audience: Defining exactly who is watching and how to find them.
The Hook: Leading with a sharp, sellable premise that commands attention.
Distribution Strategy: Building a roadmap for both traditional sales and self-distribution.
Financial Control: How to budget for P&A and execute self-marketing to maintain control of your release.

PANELISTS:
Mark D'Anna, SVP Creative Advertising/Creative Director LA, Once Upon A Time Creative Agency
Lyra Tan, Manager/Producer, Rally Entertainment, frmr. TV Lit Agent, Gersh

Katie Kelley, EVP, Head of Content and Strategy, National Research Group

Averie Joy Maikalima O Makua Huffine, Independent Producer, Humble Sandwich Productions
Michael Fisk, Producer at Pangram Ent. and Co-Founder, The Business of Creating Institute

MODERATOR:
Jennifer Mangan, Writer/Producer at Beautiful Day Productions & Co-Founder, The Business of Creating Institute

DATE: Tuesday 09 June 2026
TIME: 7:00-8:30 pm
LOCATION: LA Film School
6363 Sunset Blvd.
Hollywood 90028
PARKING: ample free street parking available
COST: $25

Educate, Empower, Succeed. And have a great time doing it!

How Creators Attract Distributors: Positioning, Audience, & the Investor Pitch

Selling Your Project: Studio-Level Thinking for Independent Filmmakers A 3-Part Series