Paul Weiland, Bill Nicholson podcasts

You weren't there, so how would you like to hear what was said at the UK's debut Screenwriters' Festival? Some of the proceedings of the June event have been compiled and are available on the website as payable downloads. Speakers include Paul Weiland, talking about his semi-autobiographical "Sixty Six" with co-writers Bridget O'Connor and Peter Straughan, Terry Loane and Fiona Kinsella on the process of writing "Mickybo and Me", Dan Reed on "Straightheads", Tony Grison and Peter Carlton on "Brothers of the Head" and William Nicholson (photo) about surviving Hollywood.

See the list for the full selection on the Screenwriters Festival website, as well as tips on pitching.

Indie festival and masterclasses in Brussels

As I was on the int'l jury last year, I have a soft spot for Brussels "International Festival of Independent Film" (FIFI in French), which is now in its 33rd year. It has always championed the more adventurous end of film, particular Asia. This year's focus is on Taiwan, with films such as "Love's Lone Flower", "Blue Cha Cha" and "Taiwan Black Movies". There will also be films from the Philippines and Iran. Perhaps unique in its genre, the festival also has a special section for the deaf each year.

A special roundtable concerning 3D animation co-production will be held. Director Tsao Jui-yuan will be among the guests. Steve Montal will also chair a discussion about "Indie production in Times of Global Instability", while Jeff Bens will give a talk on "Creating Attaching Characters".

FIFI will be held between Nov 7 and 12, 2006. Entrance for most films is a mere €3. For details, visit the FIFI website.