The Big Screen Symposium is back on 4–5 July, in Tāmaki Makaurau and it's shaping up to be an unmissable two days of inspiration, information, connection, and industry insight. Whether you're a seasoned professional or emerging talent, the Big Screen Symposium is your chance to be part of the creative heartbeat of our industry.Get ready for a series of thought-provoking and exciting talks.
See what’s coming up:
FROM PAGE TO SCREEN: THE TATTOOIST OF AUSCHWITZ
Join #1 New York Times Bestselling author Heather Morris in a compelling conversation with UK Story Producer Ruth Underwood about the adaptation of Morris’s multi-million selling novel The Tattooist of Auschwitz into the multi award-winning TV series starring Harvey Keitel and NZ’s Melaine Lynskey. Learn More
DEVELOPING & PRODUCING WORLD CLASS FILMS
Exclusive “In Conversation” with acclaimed US producer Paul Garnes. Paul’s work has shaped some of the most defining screen stories of the past decade. Best known for his collaboration with Ava DuVernay on projects like Selma, Queen Sugar, When They See Us, and Origin. Garnes will discuss the craft of producing, building creative partnerships, and the responsibility of telling stories that matter, offering reflections on how to navigate the evolving screen landscape while staying rooted in purpose and authenticity. Learn More
BRINGING BAD JELLY TO LIFE
From the creators of The Barefoot Bandits, Pipi Mā and Jandal Burn, NZ animation studio Mukpuddy comes to the Big Screen Symposium to kōrero about all things animation, including their newest charming and whimsical animation series, Bad Jelly and how this unique NZ animation studio has grown and developed over the past 22 years. Mukpuddy is known for pushing the limits of animation and producing eye-catching content with a distinct style, appealing to both children and adults. Learn More
MASTERCLASS WITH SCREEN COMPOSERS TIKI TANE, ARLI LIBERMAN AND DIRECTOR MIKE JONATHAN
Hear how the transcendent soundtrack within Ka Whawhai Tonu was crafted, from the creators themselves. Tiki and Arli will take you behind the scenes of their stunning collaboration, sharing real examples and performing live in the room, offering a rare and intimate insight into their creative process. Joined by director Mike Jonathan, the team will explore how they worked together. Learn More
MATEWA MEDIA: BRINGING DISNEY CLASSICS INTO TE AO MĀORI
Hear how Matewa Media worked with the biggest entertainment company in the world to produce Disney Reo Māori films for audiences in Aotearoa and around the world. The wāhine toa collective leading this kaupapa are Chelsea Winstanley, Tweedie Waititi and Mia Mārama Henry-Teirney, bringing decades of experience to this mahi. Through this work they have elevated Māori storytelling to new heights and created a legacy for generations of mokopuna. Learn More
MAKING FILMS DIFFERENTLY
Big Screen Symposium is excited to welcome our colleagues Tracey Corbin Mattchet OAM (CEO) and Dianna La Grassa (COO/ Head of Screen) from Bus Stop Films in Australia to Aotearoa. Bus Stop makes films with, for and about people from diverse backgrounds and abilities. They have a wide range of programmes that are taught by passionate filmmakers and industry experts to give participants a holistic filmmaking learning experience and offer participants increased social, literacy and work-ready skills. Learn More
Tickets are on sale now. This is a wonderful opportunity to connect, learn, and be creatively recharged!
Learn more and purchase tickets here