SXSW Announces First Round of Speakers for 2009

"...nine days here is like earning a mini-undergraduate degree in moviemaking... there's real information to be gathered at seminars on everything from Guerrilla Filmmaking to SAG Contracts..." -Entertainment Weekly

SXSW Film is excited to announce a rare discussion between innovative writer/directors Todd Haynes and Richard Linklater as they discuss their influences, inspirations, their innate sensitivity to actors, and their working methods; both within and outside the system at the SXSW Film Conference. Both men are fierce independents, taking broad creative risks as they hone their craft through sustained, ever-evolving careers

SXSW is pleased to announce a talk with IMDb.com founder, Col Needham. SXSW aims to bring to light the fascinating origins of this go-to database as it welcomes Needham as a guest speaker for 2009. As definitive and important as IMDb.com has become in the world of film and entertainment, surprisingly little is known about its visionary founder. An early adopter of the youthful Internet’s burgeoning potential, native Brit Needham developed his essential site from a simple spreadsheet that turned into an established online stalwart, with over 57 million unique visitors each month. More recently, its implementation of digital video hosting and streaming has secured IMDb's reputation at the forefront of the savvy cinephile's online experience.

Producer Jan Harlan has earned a place in cinema history through his close collaboration with the legendary Stanley Kubrick. Harlan will discuss his work with Kubrick, from the aborted Napoleon biopic, through producing masterpieces including Barry Lyndon (1975) and The Shining (1980). SXSW presents a unique conversation with one of the great unsung heroes of modern cinema, and provides an intimate glimpse into the process of one of the great artistic minds of the 20th century.

More speaker announcements will be made over the coming weeks, so check back soon.

A big part of every SXSW Film Festival are the panels held at the Austin Convention Center. The panels at SXSW have been hailed as some of the most extensive and educational forums found in a festival setting. The business and art of making films come together in a unique environment only SXSW could provide. SXSW takes advantage of the convergence of the Film and Interactive worlds by offering joint panel sessions, trade shows and parties.There are also one-on-one mentor sessions and mini-meetings to offer even greater insight into select topics. Register for your SXSW Film Badge now and get over 20% off the walkup rate.