the cannes sessions 2025
Seasoned filmmakers Dave DeBorde and Maxim Jago invite you to The Sessions, where industry leaders share strategies to elevate your skills and turn inspiration into action.
The Cannes Sessions bring together industry veterans, rising talent, and serious filmmakers for an immersive educational experience during the world’s most prestigious film festival.
The Cannes Sessions 2025 took place on Saturday May 17th 2025. Stay tuned for upcoming events at a film festival near you!
Schedule
The Cannes Sessions 2025 included four panels exploring vital skills and knowledge for filmmakers, and a live pitch fest!
12:00 – 12:50 PM | Screenwriting Basics with opening keynote presented by Sarah Skye at Troveo.
Speaker: Dave DeBorde
An essential foundation for any storyteller — this session walks through the screenwriting structure that’s been shared worldwide at festivals and film schools alike.
1:00 – 1:50 PM | The Art & Business of Acting for the Screen
Moderator: Maxim Jago
Speakers: Darren Darnborough (WeAudition), Richard Cambridge (WeAudition), Chandler Riggs (The Walking Dead).
Learn how to develop authentic character work while mastering the business side of the industry.
2:00 – 2:50 PM | Finance & Distribution: Show Business Essentials
Moderator: Dave DeBorde
Speakers: Sara Hamilton (Greenlit), Sarah Skye (Troveo), Adam Engelhard (Producer), Jeffrey Travis (Positron), Mel Gee Henderson (Bhutan Film Institute), Lee Thongkam (Director).
From funding to final delivery, this session explores how real films get made, sold, and seen.
3:00 – 3:50 PM | Producing a Movie in 2025
Moderator: Maxim Jago
Speakers: Jonathan Baker (Producer), John Mawson (DATURA Studios), Misha Crosby (DATURA Studios), Ramfis Myrthil (Ramfis Productions).
Development hell, deal-making, and practical producing wisdom from real-world producers.
4:00 – 5:00 PM | The Pitch Fest: Art & Science of the Pitch
Moderator: Dave DeBorde
Speakers: Maxim Jago (Producer), Mark Baum (321 Films), Sara Hamilton (Greenlit).
1-minute pitch.
2-minute feedback.
A live-fire chance to impress real industry pros.
First come, first served.