We will be joined by special guest Julia Short who has worked in film distribution for over 25 years, across titles such as Trainspotting, Fargo, Twelve Monkeys and Priscilla Queen of the Desert. In 2003 Julia set up Verve Pictures with Colin Burch, which focussed on films by first time filmmakers such as Andrea Arnold, Clio Barnard, Yorgos Lathimos, and Saul Dibb.
The event will begin with a keynote from Julia who will discuss how to connect films with audiences. Ideally, filmmakers should be thinking about who their audience will be from the early stages of production. Julia will take us through how to decide who your film is for and how to communicate this effectively. We will hear about the key messages and hooks for audiences and what visuals exhibitors and sales agents will need. Following the presentation, there will be a 15-minute audience Q&A.
There will also be plenty of time for networking drinks and we encourage our attendees to stay and connect with other filmmakers and industry professionals in Scotland in a relaxed environment. There will also be representatives from all host organisations to chat about current and upcoming opportunities.
Julia joined Rank Film Distributors in the early 1990’s. After moving to PolyGram she became responsible for running the theatrical marketing and publicity department in the UK, releasing such films as Trainspotting, Fargo, Twelve Monkeys and Priscilla Queen of the Desert. After PolyGram closed in 1999, Julia moved to Redbus (now Lionsgate) and Film Four Distribution. In 2003 Julia set up Verve Pictures with Colin Burch, which focussed on films by first time filmmakers such as Andrea Arnold, Clio Barnard, Yorgos Lanthimos, and Saul Dibb. She is actively involved in delivering several high profile training courses for both Screen Ireland, Creative England, FDA as well as exec producing.
