Today, independent filmmakers must compete with thousands of other media products and still grab the attention of fragmented viewing audiences. Challenging,yes, but far from impossible.  This popular and informal one-week workshop is for new and experienced producers, directors, writers, and filmmakers who want to understand the business and deal-making process so that intellectual property can be marketed, optioned, sold and distributed. The workshop covers media and programming trends, markets and sales outlets, product development, pitching, casting, packaging and financing. The workshop examines various case studies, screens selected films, discusses options and develops a tailored approach to the positioning, marketing, financing or selling of your ideas or film projects. The course covers budgeting, negotiating techniques, preparing for a pitch session, structuring deals, and how to overcome legal obstacles. Participants will benefit greatly when they bring in their film project, a media business plan, or a proposed career change strategy. Throughout the week attendees work with the instructor and each other focusing on their own goals and leave the workshop recharged with new ideas, passion, and a career-changing action plan to hit the ground running.