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.