All Things Film Festival: A Conversation with Phoebe Yemi Ara
Writer, producer, and Pan Macmillan Writer on the Rise Phoebe Yemi Ara has read, screened, and programmed for some of the most exciting festivals around — from BFI Future Film Festival and Slamdance to Edinburgh TV Festival and The Writers Lab. Ahead of her upcoming Learning & Development session, All Things Film Festival, Phoebe shares insights into navigating the festival circuit, avoiding common pitfalls, and why every filmmaker should take the leap.
📅 Thursday 17 October, 1PM (BST)
💻 Register here: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/4qvQ7_KETBmlgBjDP5G_BA
👉 Our Learning & Development sessions are usually members-only, but we’re opening this one up as a special taster.
The Interview
Creative Opps: You’ve read, screened or programmed for so many amazing festivals — BFI Future Film Festival, Slamdance, Edinburgh TV Festival, The Writer’s Lab — what first drew you into that world?
Phoebe Yemi Ara: Obviously I love creating, and so every role I take on has to engage with creativity in some way. Getting to work on both sides of the creator spectrum is fun — and a brilliant way to meet amazing talent. I’ve met so many exciting creatives through screening for festivals and attending them (some of whom I now work with!). I definitely recommend getting into reading, screening or programming if you love the film and TV world
CO: For people who might be new to festivals, how would you describe what they are and why they matter?
PYA: Festivals are where your film gains the accolades it needs. It’s where you meet other filmmakers, potential collaborators, and even buyers — encounters that can be truly career-changing. That’s why attending film festivals is absolutely essential.
CO: Your upcoming session is called All Things Film Festival — what can people expect from it?
PYA: Attendees can expect a crash course in why you need to be submitting to film festivals and how to make the most of the circuit. It’s ideal for any newbie wondering what to do now their short film is finished.
CO: What do you think are some of the biggest misconceptions filmmakers have about the festival circuit?
PYA: Festival competition can be tough — getting on the screen isn’t always about the quality of the film. It’s important to be strategic in who you approach and how, and to ensure all your technical elements (think subtitles!) are up to snuff.
CO: You’ve worked in film and TV development at places like Sony Pictures Television, Sky Studios and Nexus. How has that shaped the way you approach your own creative work?
PYA: There’s definitely a different flavour to what you see in festivals and what you watch on TV or in cinemas, but storytelling is universal. You can tell the quality of a team in how a film comes together. Working in development has been essential in shaping how I see films.
CO: You’ve also been recognised across fellowships and talent programmes — from BFI x ICO Emerging Producer to WFTV Kay Mellor Emerging Writer. How do these experiences feed into what you’ll be sharing in this session?
PYA: I’ll be coming from this as someone with experience on both sides — submitting to festivals as well as watching for them. The learning curve has been a fascinating one. Hopefully I can provide insights as a creator that career programmers usually miss.
CO: What’s one thing every filmmaker should consider before submitting to a festival?
PYA: Is this festival the right fit for my film? And most importantly, is my film ready?
CO: How can smaller, niche or free festivals help someone’s career in ways the bigger ones might not?
PYA: Smaller, niche festivals give you the opportunity to meet like-minded creatives. They’re also great for finding the right audience for your film. Don’t shy away from genre festivals — they’re often where you’ll make the strongest connections, and your film is more likely to be selected.
CO: Festivals can be expensive — what are your top tips for managing costs and still getting your work seen?
PYA: Keep your eye on free festivals — as long as they’re right for your film. Make sure every festival you pay for is worth the cost. If you can’t afford submissions, consider deferring until you can give yourself the best chance at a strong run. And always reach out to festivals to see if discounted entries are available.
CO: What’s your favourite festival memory — the one that still makes you smile?
PYA: My film was nominated for an award at a BIFA-qualifying festival — it’s been nominated for a few since — and they accidentally played it at the ceremony even though we didn’t win! It was a very light-hearted way to take a loss.
CO: Finally, what do you hope people take away from your session on October 17th?
PYA: Take the punt! There’s that quote about missing shots you don’t take — and in this scenario, allowing your film to flourish means engaging with festivals. Do your research where you can, but don’t overthink it — you’ll learn as you go.
Phoebe Yemi Ara
Writer | Producer