Filmmaker Masterclass
Screen australia filmmaker
masterclass
the star, gold coast
monday 27 october 2025 11am – 6pm
grainne brunsdon
Bruna
papandrea
AMANDA
GODDARD
CLAIRE
GANDY
CHANTELLE
MURRAY
DEANNE
WEIR
EDWINA
WADDY
HAYLEY
FALLOWS
JANE
NICE
JASON
HERNANDEZ
JULIE
ECKERSLEY
KRISTINA
CEYTON
LAUREN
SIMPSON
LOUISE
GOUGH
NATASHA
REY-BARRY
PAUL
WIEGARD
DR RUARI ELKINGTON
SASHI
ARNOLD
STACEY
KWIJAS
CAMERON
MITCHELL
The Australian International Movie Convention Powered by Vista Group
Hosted annually by the Cinema Association Australasia (CAA), the Australian International Movie Convention Powered By Vista Group (AIMC) remains the only event in the southern hemisphere to provide opportunities to network with local and international colleagues from Cinema Exhibition, Distribution, Production, Technology & Cinema Equipment Suppliers under one roof. The AIMC is attended by all major and independent exhibitors and distributors from across Australia and New Zealand.
Attracting >800 delegates from Australia, New Zealand, Asia, the US and Europe, AIMC provides an invaluable opportunity to preview upcoming product from major and independent studios; learn about local and international trends from guest presenters; discuss latest technologies and cinema fit-outs with trade exhibitors; and network with colleagues and senior industry executives. The event is anchored by presentations from leading Australian and Hollywood distributors, showcasing their upcoming film slates. 2025 is the 78th Australian International Movie Convention and will be held at The Star Gold Coast from Monday 27 October 2025.
2024 Screen Australia Filmmaker Masterclass
Introduced for the first time at the 2024 Australian International Movie Convention, the Screen Australia Filmmaker Masterclass unites the various sectors of the cinema industry with the common goal of creating more commercially appealing Australian films annually. The event was created in partnership with Screen Australia, with presentations from 23 exhibitors, distributors, filmmakers, marketers, publicists and screen agency executives, including presentations from Screen Australia, Screen Queensland & the Gold Coast Film Commission.
After the 2024 Masterclass Rob Connolly noted “It was terrific to see so many young and emerging filmmakers mixing with exhibitors, an important initiative with great long term impact. It was also excellent to see Australian Cinema showcased in such a significant way within the Convention” with Sue Maslin adding “A brilliantly curated program that brought filmmakers from around Australia to the coal face of screen business – and brought with it a heightened understanding of the challenges and the opportunities that lie ahead for theatrical feature films. It was electric to be in a room filled with filmmakers, distributors, exhibitors, and screen agencies all gleaning new insights together”.
2025 Program
Screen Australia, Screen Queensland and the Gold Coast Film Commission will be presenting at the Masterclass, along with leading Australian filmmakers, distributors, marketers and exhibitors. Presentations will include:
Know Your Audience: Making Films for the People Who Watch Them
This session explores how audience insights should guide every stage of a film’s lifecycle – from the first draft to release. Filmmakers, distributors and exhibitors will unpack how to reach, excite and engage audiences.
Building the Blueprint: Packaging for a New Era of Australian Film
Independent films must compete with global blockbusters on lean budgets. This presentation examines how to build strong finance plans, attract investors and package projects for a rapidly evolving market – including what to include, common mistakes and why early marketing assets matter.
From Idea to Impact: Developing Stories with Global and Local Appeal
Development is often rushed, yet it’s the most crucial phase of filmmaking. This session looks at what makes IP authentically Australian, how to avoid the stereotype and why thoughtful, well-supported development leads to stronger cultural and commercial outcomes.
Beyond the Box Office: Future-Proofing Your Film Through Strategy
Marketing and exhibition strategies must start early and last long past release. This panel explores PR, festivals, social media and innovative models offering practical ways filmmakers, distributors and exhibitors can help Australian films cut through.
Tickets start from $100 for the Masterclass
We are incredibly appreciative of the support of Screen Australia and our industry partners
