Raindance and IIFF

www.Raindance.org is now officially introduced to the Vancouver's indie film community - its just a matter of time and steady events for the introduction to become part of the fabric of this great filmmaking city. I'm really excited about the possibilities this international film society can bring to the local scene, including the exposure of our own films, greater integration of the local indie film societies, the connections across the pond and the resources to get more films made! Keep up to speed with our events in Vancouver by visiting www.raindancecanada.com and clicking on the Vancouver links on the left - we're starting small, but we'll be having more courses and events soon. For now, come out to the "Boozin n Schmoozin" networking party every first Monday of every month at the Railway Club (www.therailwayclub.com) where you'll be able to meet other filmmakers, get discounted drinks and food, watch the invited band (and get their songs for your movie), and become a member to get access to online resources!

Also, the influence of the Institute for International Film Financing is also becoming known in town, with my buddy Ben Lu's stellar initiative to bring the non-profit society to Vancouver (www.filmfinancing.org) eight months ago, and my fortune to be a part of the organizing team. All the film professionals we invite to speak at this monthly forum have in one way or another helped create and foster the regional film business as we now know it, and it's really an inspiration to learn from these seasoned pros. I really recommend you attend the townhalls - keep track of them at the website www.filmfinancing.org - and click on the NW (as in NorthWest) link at the bottom of the page.