The 2025 Cannes Film Festival gets underway this week, which means that the world’s biggest filmmakers will be descending upon the Croisette to debut their latest works. It also means that the American Pavilion (AmPav) is rolling out a predictably robust lineup of educational programming aimed at providing an inside look at the film industry to students and seasoned veterans alike.
Taking place at the Roger Ebert Conference Center from May 14-22, AmPav’s series of conversations and panels will see the likes of Spike Lee, Michael Angelo Covino, and Vicky Krieps sitting down to share their words of wisdom with festival attendees. There will also be specialty programming such as California Day, a series of panels aimed at promoting film production in California; and House Party, a two-day summit aimed at elevating global perspectives in film.
IndieWire will also debut its inaugural Future of Filmmaking Summit at AmPav, which will feature a keynote address by Richard Linklater, a a one-on-one conversation with Mubi head of global distribution Arianna Bocco, and panels about the future of international production and AI.
“We’re excited to welcome such an extraordinary group of filmmakers, talent, and industry leaders to The American Pavilion,” AmPav founder and president Julie Sisk said in a statement. “From icons like Spike Lee and Richard Linklater to visionary voices shaping the future of film, these conversations offer our members, students, and Emerging Filmmaker Showcase entrants a rare opportunity to engage with the people pushing cinema forward.”
All events require both a festival pass and AmPav membership to attend. The full programming schedule, which remains subject to changes and additions, can be found below.
WEDNESDAY, MAY 14
11:00 AM
INDUSTRY IN FOCUS: PR PROS
As the media landscape shifts, so does the art of film publicity. Seasoned publicists pull back the curtain on how they craft narratives, build buzz, and navigate press strategy, offering candid insight into a side of filmmaking that’s as crucial as it is often misunderstood.
- Emma Griffiths / President / EG PR
- RJ Millard / President / Obscured Pictures
- Hilda Somarriba / Vice President / 42West
- Moderated by Sylvia Desrochers / EVP / MPRM Communications
1:00PM
INDUSTRY IN FOCUS: MARKETING MAGICIANS
In a shifting film landscape, smart marketing is essential. Industry experts share key strategies—from festival positioning and theatrical rollouts to digital campaigns and grassroots outreach—that can shape a film’s success from start to finish.
- Karina Gechtman / VP International Marketing & Publicity / Anton
- Kenny Gravillis / Chief Creative Director / Gravillis Inc
- Julie La’Bassiere / Chief Strategy Officer / DDA
- Mounia Wissinger / SVP Global Marketing & Publicity / Protagonist Pictures
- Moderated by Stewart Clarke / SVP, Content, International / Deadline
6:00 PM–8:00 PM – Member Cocktail Party
Open to all American Pavilion members
Presented by Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD)
THURSDAY, MAY 15
CALIFORNIA DAY AT THE AMERICAN PAVILION
Presented by Visit California, California Film Commission, California Wine Commission, Love Beverly Hills, Marina Del Rey Tourism Board, Santa Monica Travel and Tourism, and Visit West Hollywood
11:45 AM
INDIEWIRE: FUTURE OF FILMMAKING
The Future of International Distribution: MUBI in Focus
Presented by United for Business
Coming off a successful year that began with the launch of “The Substance” at the Cannes Film Festival, MUBI is riding high as the most promising international streaming entity with a global cinephile reach. The company recently hired veteran distribution executive Arianna Bocco, who ran acquisitions at IFC Films for nearly 20 years, as its SVP of Global Distribution. Bocco will share her insights on the increasing value of international territories in distribution strategy and how the landscape has changed.
- Arianna Bocco / SVP of Global Distribution / MUBI
- Moderated by Anne Thompson / Indiewire
12:30 PM
FILMING IN CALIFORNIA – THE OPPORTUNITIES AND THE MISCONCEPTIONS
Presented by Visit California
This conversation will unpack persistent myths about filming in California, while spotlighting success stories and underutilized opportunities throughout the state. Panelists will offer insights into California’s robust incentives, infrastructure, and creative ecosystem—underscoring why it remains a premier destination for film and television production.
- Colleen Bell / Executive Director / California Film Commission
- Jeff Morris, Chief Marketing Officer, West Hollywood Travel + Tourism Board
- Janet Zaldua, CEO, Marina Del Rey Tourism Board
- Robert Bibeault, Chief Marketing Officer, Beverly Hills Conference & Visitors Bureau
- Michal Zebede / Writer, Producer, Director
- Moderated by Dana Harris / Editor-In-Chief / Indiewire
2:00 PM
FILMMAKING ACROSS DECADES – INSIGHTS FROM SEASONED STORYTELLERS
Presented by Visit California
A conversation with experienced producers and filmmakers reflecting on their careers, lessons learned, and the evolving landscape of film production. Panelists will also share their perspectives on shooting in California and the value of sustaining a vibrant production community in the state.
- Jon Kilik / Independent Feature Film Producer
- Jonathan King / President / Closer Media
- Ray Maiello / Co-Founder / Radiant Media Studios
- Moderated by Aaron Couch / The Hollywood Reporter
6:00 PM–8:00 PM – California Day Reception
Open to all American Pavilion members
FRIDAY, MAY 16
11:00 AM
INDIEWIRE: FUTURE OF FILMMAKING
The Future of International Production
Presented by United for Business
As production faces increasing budgetary challenges in the U.S., more and more projects are migrating abroad. We will hear from veteran producers and financiers about how to navigate the opportunities and challenges of international co-productions.
- Emily Korteweg / Producer / Splitsville
- Andrew Hevia / Head of North American Production / Fabula
- Caroline von Kuhn / Executive Director / Oxbelly
- Moderated by Dana Harris / Indiewire
12:30 PM
INDUSTRY IN FOCUS: INDEPENDENT FILM FINANCE
From tried-and-true methods to emerging models, industry leaders share what’s working now, the challenges they’re navigating, and new approaches shaping the future of film financing.
- Jonathan Bross / Managing Partner / Ashland Hill Media Finance
- Lia Buman / Principal, Co-Founder / Tango
- Grégoire Gensollen / COO / Tucker Tooley Entertainment
- Marc Iserlis / Head of Film / Republic
- James Pugh / Chief Operations Officer / Protagonist Pictures
- Moderated by Harris Tulchin / Producer, Attorney, Author / Harris Tulchin & Associates
2:00 PM
INDUSTRY IN FOCUS: U.S. DISTRIBUTION
Explore the evolving distribution landscape for independent films in the U.S.—from traditional theatrical releases to digital platforms, hybrid models, and new kinds of partnerships. Industry experts share what’s working, how they’ve adapted, and how they’re preparing for an unpredictable future.
- Howard Cohen / Co-President / Roadside Attractions
- Dr. Alicia Kozma / Director, Indiana University Cinema / Board of Directors, Art House Convergence
- Lisa Schwartz / Chief Distribution and Revenue Officer / Kino Lorber
- Scott Shooman / Head of IFC Entertainment Group
- Moderator TBA
4:00 PM
WARTIME UKRAINIAN CINEMA, PROSPECTS AND CHALLENGES
Presented in Partnership With the Ukrainian Pavilion
This event will feature presentations, video materials, and discussions with Ukrainian and international film experts. Topics will include wartime co-productions, distribution analytics, institutional support, and the challenges of filming under fire. Speakers will share real-life experiences, present new projects, and explore opportunities for collaboration to support and promote Ukrainian cinema during the ongoing war.
- Enrico Vanucci / Deputy Head / Euroimage Fund
- Andriy Nohin / Head of NGO “UKRKINOFEST” / CEO UnitedContentHUB
- Michel Plazanet / Deputy director of European and international affairs / CNC
- Pylyp Illienko / Chairman / Ukrainian Film Academy
- Akhtem Seitablaiev / Director, Producer, Actor, and Serviceman (AFU)
- Moderated by Andriy Khalpakhchi / President / Kyiv International Film Festival “Molodist”
4:00 PM
SNEAK PEEK OF:HANGING BY A WIRE — HOSTED BY EVERWONDER STUDIO & MINDHOUSE, AMERICAN PAVILION TERRACE
Exclusive preview of “Hanging By A Wire,” from acclaimed director Mohammed Ali Naqvi. This cinematic thrill ride tells the story of a daring rescue that captivated the world. Mo will share the behind-the-scenes process of transforming a real-life survival story into an edge-of-your-seat experience. RSVP to amanda.spain@everwonder.studio
SATURDAY, MAY 17
11:00 AM
INDUSTRY IN FOCUS: BUILD YOUR AUDIENCE, OWN YOUR FUTURE
As the independent film landscape evolves, more filmmakers are finding that taking charge of their audience engagement, and often their own distribution, is key to long-term success. This conversation explores real-world strategies for connecting with viewers and building a sustainable career in today’s industry.
- Ted Hope / Producer / Double Hope Films
- Lela Meadow-Conner / CEO mamafilm / Co-Founder, The Popcorn List / President, Art House Convergence
- Richa Rudola / Filmmaker, Cow Heavy And Floral / Co-Founder, Meals About Motherhood
- Moderated by Sylvia Desrochers / EVP / MPRM Communications
12:30 PM
INDUSTRY IN FOCUS: DOCUMENTARIES
This annual conversation brings together acclaimed filmmakers and industry leaders to examine the current state of documentary storytelling—how these vital films are being developed, financed, and distributed, and how audiences are engaging with them in an increasingly uncertain landscape.
- Vanessa Hope / Director, Producer / Double Hope Films
- Jon Kamen / Chairman, CEO / RadicalMedia
- Catherine Quantsschnigg / Producer, Sales / Noah Media Group
- Joe Tufano / VP of Distribution / Submarine Entertainment
- Moderated by Matt Carey / Documentary Editor / Deadline, Doc Talk Podcast
1:30 PM
INDUSTRY IN FOCUS: DEVELOPMENT TO PRODUCTION
From first pitch to festival premiere, the path from development to production is anything but linear. In this candid conversation, seasoned producers and executives share how they build a slate, choose the right projects, and navigate the creative and strategic challenges of getting films made—and made well.
- Steven Adams / Manager, Producer / Alta Global Media
- Kara Durrett / President & Head of Film / Pinky Promise
- Ryan Heller / EVP Film & Documentary / Topic Studios
- Lizzie Shapiro / Producer at The Space Program
- Moderated by Mia Galuppo / The Hollywood Reporter
2:30 PM
INDIEWIRE: FUTURE OF FILMMAKING
Keynote Chat: Richard Linklater
Presented by United for Business
- Moderated by Eric Kohn / Indiewire
3:30 PM
HOUSE PARTY: GOLD HOUSE
Fireside Chat: Lucky Lu’s Lloyd Lee Choi & Nina Yang Bongiovi
A fireside chat about independent film, first-time feature directing, and producing projects with unique perspectives with Cannes 2025 Directors’ Fortnight film Lucky Lu’s Lloyd Lee Choi and producer Nina Yang Bongiovi
- Introduction by Christine Yi / VP / Gold House
SUNDAY, MAY 18
11:00 AM
INDIEWIRE: FUTURE OF FILMMAKING
How to Survive and Thrive in the Age of AI
Presented by United for Business
The acceleration of artificial intelligence in recent years has led to rampant fears across the entertainment industry, some more founded than others. However, AI isn’t going away – and its progress relates to broader changes to the future of storytelling as a whole. On this panel, we’ll hear from creatives and executives about how to make the most of a new era defined by dramatic technological change.
- Edward Saatchi / Founder and CEO / Fable Studios
- Kiira Benzing / Founder / Double Eye Studios
- Seth Piezas / NVIDIA/Prezense
- Liz Rosenthal / Venice Immersive
- Luc Jacquet / Filmmaker/CannesXR Jury President
- Paul Trillo / Partner / Asteria Film Co.
- Moderated by Eric Kohn / Indiewire
12:30 PM
HOUSE PARTY: ARAB FILM & MEDIA INSTITUTE
AFMI Presents Women Leading Change Through Storytelling
Celebrate the contributions of trailblazing women filmmakers who boldly champion global voices through their dynamic work. Our panelists will share the barriers they have overcome, how they challenged industry norms, and what it takes to open doors for future generations of storytellers.
- Cherien Dabis / Director, Actress, and Screenwriter
- Nia DaCosta / Director and Screenwriter
- Iman Zawahry / Director / Film Programs Director at ISF
- Moderated by Hanna Flint / Film critic, Writer, and Author
2:00 PM
HOUSE PARTY: THE IMPACT LOUNGE
Reaching the Right Eyes: Finding and Growing Audiences for Impact Films
How do you connect a meaningful film to the right audience? This panel explores innovative strategies—social media campaigns, membership guilds, direct-to-theater tech, and global platforms—that are reshaping impact film distribution. Learn from industry leaders how to build buzz and reach the people who want to see your film most.
- Jared Geesey / Chief Distribution Officer / Angel Studios
- Justine Barda / Founder and Director / Telescope Film
- Selina Ringel / Filmmaker and Actor / Two Hands Productions
- Owen Williams / Producer and Founder / Harpoon Media
- Moderated by Heather Mason / Founder / The Impact Lounge
3:00 PM
IN CONVERSATION: MICHAEL ANGELO COVINO
Acclaimed filmmaker Michael Angelo Covino joins us for an intimate conversation about his journey from indie shorts to Cannes success with 2019’s “The Climb” and this year’s “Splitsville.” From directing and acting to producing, we’ll discuss his collaborative creative process and the bold, emotionally honest storytelling that defines his work.
- Moderated by Eric Kohn
4:00 PM
HOUSE PARTY: EASTERSEALS
Reimagining Hollywood: A New Lens on Disability
A deep dive into the state of disability inclusion in entertainment—progress, wins, and the path ahead—focused on advancing authentic representation on and off screen. A collaborative effort between industry and community driving inclusive change.
- Nic Novicki / Actor, writer, producer / Founder of the Easterseals Disability Film Challenge
- Nancy Weintraub / Chief Advancement Officer / Easterseals Southern California
- Moderated by Keith Simanton / Managing Editor / IMDbPro
MONDAY, MAY 19
11:00 AM
HOUSE PARTY: GLOBAL STORYTELLING
Stories grounded in cultural and geographic specificity often have the widest reach. This conversation explores how filmmakers create work that resonates globally by embracing their roots, along with the creative potential and challenges of telling culturally nuanced stories across borders.
- Ṣọpẹ́ Dìrísù / Actor / My Father’s Shadow, Cannes Film Festival, Official Selection
- Richard Lorber / Chairman / Kino Lorber
- Fawzia Mirza / Writer, Director / The Queen of My Dreams
- Frida Torresblanco / Producer / Hangtime Pictures
- Moderated by Nancy Tartaglione / Deadline
12:30 PM
HOUSE PARTY: WHY THESE STORIES MATTER – REPRESENTATION IN HOLLYWOOD
Authentic, inclusive storytelling remains essential. This conversation looks at why representation in Hollywood still matters, the progress made, the challenges ahead, and how industry leaders can help shape a more equitable narrative landscape.
- Andria Wilson Mirza / Senior Consultant, Entertainment / GLAAD
- Heather Rae / Producer / Mountain Daughter Media
- Daphne Schmon / Founder & Executive Director / Breaking Through the Lens
- Moderator TBA
2:00 PM
IN CONVERSATION: VICKY KRIEPS
Acclaimed actress Vicky Krieps (Phantom Thread, Corsage) joins us to discuss her latest role in “Love Me Tender,” premiering at Cannes 2025. Known for her nuanced performances and fearless role choices, Krieps will share insights into her artistic journey, the challenges of portraying complex characters, and her approach to storytelling across diverse cinematic landscapes.
6:00 PM–8:00 PM – House Party Reception
Open to all American Pavilion members
TUESDAY, MAY 20
12:00 PM
INDIEWIRE’S “SCREEN TALK” PODCAST
IndieWire’s weekly Screen Talk podcast has delved into the biggest questions facing the film industry for years. For this special live episode, join Screen Talk hosts Anne Thompson and Ryan Lattanzio,along with special guest NEON’s CEO Tom Quinn, for a spirited discussion about festival buzz, awards season, and the future of cinema itself.
- Anne Thompson / IndieWire
- Ryan Lattanzio / IndieWire
- Tom Quinn / CEO / NEON
1:00 PM
IN CONVERSATION: SPIKE LEE
Join legendary filmmaker Spike Lee for a candid conversation about his storied career and “Highest 2 Lowest,” his bold new film from A24 and Apple Original Films premiering at Cannes 2025.
- Moderated by Darrien Michele Gipson / Executive Director / SAGindie
EMERGING FILMMAKER SHOWCASE
3:30-6:00 PM – LGBTQ+ Screenings
Presented by Gold House
9:00 PM–1:00 AM
Queer Night
An LGBTQ+ dance party open to all Festival and Marché badge holders
WEDNESDAY, MAY 21
11:00 AM
INDUSTRY IN FOCUS: SHORT FILMS
Short films play a vital role in the film ecosystem—as creative calling cards, festival breakouts, and platforms for bold ideas. This conversation looks at how shorts can launch careers, build momentum, and offer unique opportunities for experimentation and storytelling.
- Joecar Hanna / Filmmaker, Talk Me / La Cinef, Cannes FF
- Sandra Lipski / Founder and Festival Director / Evolution Mallorca International Film Festival
- Joanne Moore, J.D. / Dean of the School of Film & Television / Loyola Marymount University
- Kaitlyn Mikayla / Filmmaker, Ragamuffin / Sundance Film Festival
- Moderated by Scott Macaulay / Co-Founder, Editor-In-Chief / Filmmaker Magazine
1:00 PM
INDIEWIRE CRITICS’ PANEL
Join IndieWire’s Chief Film Critic David Ehrlich and a panel of leading international film critics for a no-holds-barred conversation about the best and worst of Cannes 2025, the state of the film industry at large, and the realities of writing about it for a living. The conversation will be followed by an audience Q&A session.
- David Ehrlich / IndieWire
- Guilherme Jacobs / Omelete
- Robert Daniels / RogerEbert.com
- Sophie Monks Kaufman / Freelance
EMERGING FILMMAKER SHOWCASE
3:00 PM-5:30 PM – Emerging Filmmaker Student Screenings
Presented by Gold House
5:30 PM-7:30 PM Emerging Filmmaker Screenings
Presented by Gold House
