Recently, I had the pleasure of reading Inventing The Movies by Scott Kirsner.  This book is a quick read that takes you on a journey from the early days of moving pictures through present day.  It's focus is on how technology has changed the industry and how many filmmakers were resistant to those changes.  From the creation of talkies to the digital revolution that is happening right now.  I enjoyed this book so much that we added it as one of the prizes in the current screenplay contest.  I recommend this book to any cinephile looking to broaden their understanding of how technology has shaped the film industry. 

A couple of weeks ago, I attended the Rhode Island International Film Festival.  RIIFF is a very laid back yet important festival as it is one of only 61 festivals that can recommend short films for Oscar nomination.

As for the films, most were average, but there were a few that stood out from the rest.  "Gone Fishing" won the award for best short, it is definitely worth a view if it comes around to a festival near you.
Check out the winners here.

During the festival, I had the pleasure of participating on a panel discussion regarding online distribution.  Panel members were myself, Scott Kirsner, Stephanie Budiman, and Rhonda Moskowitz.  The discussion was lively as most filmmakers are still apprehensive when it comes to online distribution.  The main point most would take away is that you have to become an internet marketing maniac.  In order to find your audience, you have to learn how to promote yourself via the web.  Once you have the audience, you must stay in contact with them as they will be more eager to see your next film and see your career take off.

Scott wrote an excellent blog about how to get your film on iTunes, check it out here.