In Conversation With Debut Filmmakers
Gordon Square Cinema, 43 Gordon Square
From £5.00
Birkbeck Students' Union
Category
Career Development and Job Fairs
Film and Entertainment
Social Mixers and Networking
Talks, Panels, and Lectures
Are you a new filmmaker, wanting to develop a career in the film industry or just passionate about film?
The Birkbeck Students' Union and BBK Short Filmmaking Society present a conversation hosted by Mariayah Kaderbhai, spotlighting a group of BAFTA Longlist 2025/2026 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.
We'll be holding a networking reception after the event - if you wish to attend the reception, please purchase the "+ Reception" ticket option.
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- Gordon Square Cinema, 43 Gordon Square
- List of guests to be announced prior to the event!
- Tickets are limited, purchase yours now! Tickets for UoL students and guests will be available for booking on the 30th of January 12 pm.
- For access requirements, please email su-activities@bbk.ac.uk.