After PTFF accepts and screens a film at our Festival, the filmmaker becomes a part of our Alumni network.
alumni benefits
Waived submission fees for future festivals
PTFF alumni receive life-long fee waivers for future submissions (limited to 1 waiver per year)
Photo by Viola Ware
Eligibility for the filmmaker in residence program
Eligibility to lead a Forum presentation
More info below
Photo by Viola Ware
about forum presentations
PTFF’s September Festival has presented the best of indie films, celebrated both emerging and iconic filmmakers, and thrown some of the most outrageous parties of the film festival circuit. Now, we’re building out our education, networking, and filmmaker development initiatives. One of the primary steps we’ve taken is to create a Forum track alongside the Film track of the Festival.
Forums are two-hour seminars for the developing filmmaker and the general public presenters by our alumni filmmakers and special guests. We’re looking for you to share what you’ve learned on your filmmaking journey and have an opportunity to meet the newest filmmakers joining the PTFF Alumni Filmmaker Network.
Forum presenters will receive a teaching stipend, housing at the Festival, and the highest level pass good for entry into all the offerings of the Festival.
We’re looking for Forum proposals that will excite our attendees, create dynamic experiences, and advance your own learning through teaching.
Pictured: Filmmaker Gregory Nava leads a forum during the 2026 September Festival. Photo by Viola Ware
how to submit a forum proposal
Please send the following to Danni McClelland (Executive Director) at danielle@ptfilm.org:
The year/film you’ve presented at PTFF. Please include a log line, brief description, and trailer link or tell us where to find your work
A 1-2 page description and outline of a two-hour seminar that includes time for active engagement and participation from the attendees
Include a bio, resume, link to an up-to-date IMDB listing, or some such “about me and my work”