SXSW Film Frequently Asked Questions

GENERAL

When and where is the South by Southwest Film Conference and Festival held?
SXSW Film takes place in Austin, Texas each March.

Why Austin?

What is SXSW FILM?
The South by Southwest Film Conference and Festival is essentially two events in one. By day, it is an industry-oriented film conference with panels, workshops, mentor sessions and a Trade Show. It has been described as a five day crash course on guerilla filmmaking and marketing. Day and night the SXSW Film Festival screens about 150 - 200 of the best independent films produced during the previous year as well as works from established directors who have inspired the latest generation of filmmakers. Aspiring novices and seasoned professionals alike can immerse themselves in film and the business of film by registering for SXSW.

How old is SXSW FILM?
SXSW Film originated in 1994.

Where do the daytime events occur?
All SXSW Film Conference daytime events including the panels, workshops and the Trade Show take place at the Austin Convention Center, 500 E. Cesar Chavez Street.

What kind of people attend SXSW Film?
The range of registrants at SXSW Film includes distribution company presidents and filmmaking waitresses. Representatives from major and independent distribution houses scout films and talent. Writers conduct interviews and madly watch films. Filmmakers check out films from around the world that are rarely seen in America. Actors, directors, agents, distributors and screenwriters get together and talk. People seeking new business, fascinated with new films and exploring new technologies find what they need at the trade show and panels.

I am strictly a film fan and don't work in the business. How can I see films?
A SXSW Film badge is affordable for film industry professionals and fans alike. Avid film buffs with a badge will have the highest mobility between theatres. Registration benefits include the Trade Show, access to all panels, a Big Bag of goodies, and a chance to hob nob with some of the most important people in film. Additional ways to see screenings of the films are to buy a Film Festival Pass (available locally in Austin in late-February) which is good for the entire week or to buy single admissions at the door the night of the screening.

ATTENDING SXSW FILM

Why should I register for SXSW?
Whether you are a newcomer to the film industry, a well-established veteran or an avid film fan, SXSW Film provides a great opportunity to network with people who can help you move your career to the next level and educate you on how the industry works.

Which benefits do I receive by registering?
A SXSW Film registration badge is the only way you can attend all the panels, the workshops, the mentor sessions, the hands on demos and the Trade Show. In addition to receiving the Registrants' Directory/Program Book and the Big Bag of goodies, SXSW Film registrants also get priority entrance to SXSW Film Festival venues. You also get access to the Online Registrants' Database, a version of the conference Registrants' Directory complete with e-mail addresses, to assist in your business contact needs throughout the year.

PANELS, WORKSHOPS, MENTOR SESSIONS

What is a panel? / What is covered in panels?
Panel discussions at SXSW are designed as continuing education for the film business.

What is a Mentor Session?
Registrants may sign up for ten minute sessions with selected panelists, who represent a wide variety of professions within the film business. This is a great opportunity to meet one on one with established professionals and get straight, personalized advice.

SCREENING AT THE SXSW FILM FESTIVAL

How does my film get chosen to screen at the SXSW Film Festival?
SXSW Film accepts festival submissions until the beginning of December each year.

Why should my film screen at SXSW?
Screening at SXSW is a cost effective way for your film to reach a wide segment of the film industry. If your film is accepted for a screening and you effectively prepare and promote your film, you will have the chance to screen for a highly influential audience of industry experts and knowledgeable film lovers.

Any advice before I send in my film submission and related materials?
SXSW will receive close to three thousand submissions. Please include everything that is requested on the submission form including a VHS tape/DVD, 50 word synopsis, director's bio, cast and crew lists, and list of previous and planned screenings. Do not underestimate the importance of reading and following the instructions.

You didn't give me a screening, why should I come to your conference?
Opportunities for film professionals do not stop at screenings for the prepared professional. Informative panels reveal tips and tricks of the industry, while the Trade Show gives a chance to size up the offerings and bend a few ears. Creative self-promotion can create a buzz without your film even being screened.

MORE INFORMATION & CONTACTING SXSW FILM

How can I get more information on SXSW Film?
Peruse the SXSW Film web pages.

How can I contact SXSW Film?
E-mail us at film at sxsw.com. Or, call SXSW Film at 512/467-7979.

AUSTIN

What can you tell me about Austin?
Austin is a culturally-diverse community with a thriving film scene. Prominent film industry professionals from Austin include Robert Rodriguez, Richard Linklater, William Broyles, Lawrence Wright, and Sandra Bullock, For more information about Austin, check out Austin Convention and Visitors Bureau.

What kind of weather can I expect during SXSW FILM?
Although spring weather in Austin can be unpredictable, the weather is usually in the 70's during the day and in the 50's and 60's at night. Murphy's Law of Meteorological Events dictates that if you bring an umbrella, it probably won't rain.