Insider Track™

I help serious independent filmmakers master the festival circuit with insider strategies—so they avoid costly missteps, bypass industry guesswork, and position their films for maximum impact.

Heather Brittain

Hi, I'm Heather Brittain,

Founder of Film Festival Insider and creator of Insider Track

When I first stepped into the festival world as an independent filmmaker, I quickly realized how little practical guidance was available. Sure, I’d heard of “the big five” festivals and knew a few local names, but beyond that, the path was murky. I searched endlessly for answers—how to submit, what to do after acceptance, and how to turn a festival run into real momentum. Instead, I found fragmented advice, overwhelming submission platforms, and a staggering number of options. In 2013, there were around 3,000 active film festivals. Today, FilmFreeway lists more than 13,000.

Each film I produced taught me more. My submissions became smarter and more strategic—choosing only the right-fit festivals, avoiding scams, and timing entries for maximum advantage. With each project, my results improved: higher acceptance rates, stronger press, and awards in places where I didn’t know a single person.

My perspective deepened when I became vice-chair of the Garden State Film Festival, New Jersey’s Premier Independent Film Festival®, which attracts over 20,000 attendees annually. As a programmer, I’ve screened thousands of submissions, gaining a clear view of what festivals truly want—and what guarantees a pass.

Now, with the combined insight of a filmmaker and a festival organizer, I teach independent filmmakers how to earn respect, press, and accolades for their work. Through my flagship program, Insider Track™, offered under my company Film Festival Insider™, I share the strategies that get films seen, remembered, and celebrated—without wasted submissions or guesswork.

For me, the heart of this work is simple: giving indie filmmakers a platform to shine and the connections to launch what’s next. Helping you turn your festival run into a powerful springboard for your career is not just my expertise—it’s my passion.

Ready to turn your festival run into a launchpad for your film’s success?

 

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