If you think Utah’s biggest film festivals cater only to moviegoers, think again. Several of Utah’s biggest film festivals offer a myriad of diverse workshops and discussion groups aimed at those in the film industry who are hungry for knowledge and experience.

Sundance Film Festival

The Sundance Film Festival (January 15-25, 2009) offers several opportunities for those behind the camera to improve their skills. Here is one example of what’s available for 2009:

BAVC Presentation, The New Documentary Movement: Emerging Technologies and Participatory Culture: This special presentation invites you to meet filmmakers and industry experts who are pushing the limits of technology-inspired tools for global collaboration, alternative storytelling and social change. Thursday, January 22, 2:00 pm. New Frontier on Main, Free.
Other workshops and discussion panels can be found at: http://www.sundance.org/festival/filmguide/offscreen.asp.

Slamdance Film Festival

Another film festival running concurrent with Sundance is the Slamdance Film Festival (January 15-23, 200). This year offers those behind the camera a look at some of the latest technology. Here are some Slamdance examples:

PANASONIC P2HD WORKSHOP: Exclusive workshop hosted by Panasonic focusing on P2HD technology and workflow. Wednesday, January 21, 10:00 am. Treasure Mountain Inn – Monster Arcade. Free.

Fireside Chat - New Production Technologies: Sponsored by Panasonic Fall in love all over again with the latest technology for indie filmmaking. Spend time with HD gurus who have shot using different formats and equipment, including the HVX200. Wednesday, January 21, 1:00 pm. Technocolor Filmmaker’s Lounge. Free

Check out: http://slamdance.bside.com/2009/schedule for more information.

Make sure you plan ahead for next year if you missed Sundance or Slamdance opportunities this year.

LDS Film Festival

Also in January 2009, the LDS Film Festival (http://www.ldsfilmfestival.org/) is held January 21-24, 2009, at the Scera Center, Orem. Aspiring filmmakers as well as seasoned veterans can benefit by attending this yearly event where sponsors and others—in front of and behind the camera—gather to network and mingle, all in an effort to forward the creative process.

Look to SLCCut.com for additional information on future film festivals including a feature on the Foursite Film Festival in Ogden which offers great resources to editors in Utah. Be it obvious or somewhat hidden, now is a good time to check out what is available to editors of film at Utah’s festivals.