In this episode, we talk about…


  • What led Michael and Leslee to found the Dances With Films Festival 
  • Orion’s cease and desist letter and “Festival of the Unknowns” 
  • Creating a sustainable model by prioritizing film and championing new talent 
  • Why DWF is held in Los Angeles and respect for the film selection process
  • Acknowledging that not all films are good, and why filmmakers need to keep practicing 
  • Engaging with new filmmakers and preparing them for the industry 
  • Watching the whole film and looking for the heart when selecting films for DWF 
  • How all films not chosen receive “pass” letters that include positive comments
  • The challenge of DWF’s programming and how it’s evolved over the years

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This episode of The No Film School Podcast was produced by George Edelman.