In Conversation With Debut Filmmakers…

Join us for a lively and insightful conversation hosted by Mariayah Kaderbhai, spotlighting a group of debut filmmakers who have recently completed their first feature. Bringing together filmmakers at key early stages of their careers, this session explores the creative leap, the collaboration, and the sheer determination involved in making a first film.

Our filmmakers will share the real journey behind their debut work: the moment a story first took shape, the hurdles of financing and production, and the craft decisions that defined the project in post. They’ll discuss the pressures and freedoms of being a first-time creative team, the importance of building trust across disciplines, and how this experience is shaping their next steps. Expect an honest, grounded look at what it means to make an ambitious, personal film in today’s industry.

Guiding the conversation is Mariayah Kaderbhai, a curator, interviewer, and cultural programmes lead whose work at BAFTA centred on amplifying new voices and creating space for meaningful, industry-shaping dialogue. Mariayah has chaired conversations with a diverse range of acclaimed talent from writers, directors, actors, and producers whose work spans independent cinema, major studios, and award-winning international storytelling. Her body of interview work includes conversations with an exceptional range of talent from Riz Ahmed, Olivia Colman, Daniel Kaluuya, Timothée Chalamet and Nicole Kidman to Ryan Coogler, Julianne Moore, Spike Lee, and Penélope Cruz, among many others.

Together, this session offers an inspiring look at what it takes to break through with a debut film, celebrating creativity, resilience, and the power of fresh perspectives shaping the future of cinema.

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The talk will be held at the Gordon Square Cinema in 43 Gordon Square, with a brief reception afterwards. More information regarding ticket sales and speaker profiles coming in term 2!