SXSW Previewed: Here Come the Panels

SXSW is still five months away (just?) but the news is flying fast and furious from Austin and bits and pieces of next year's panels lineup are being revealed at blogs all over indieWOOD.  Search around to find some of the other topics, but here's one that certainly interests me:

Deal or No Deal: The Road of Self-Distribution
(Monday, March 10)
For some filmmakers, getting their work to the masses becomes a very personal task. And, even when a conventional DVD or cable deal is part of the equation, some decide to take on the theatrical release solo. What is this process like? Seasoned filmmakers and members of the industry chat about the complicated world of "self-distribution," and whether or not they would do it again.

In an age when even the most acclaimed nonfiction films are having to work with new distributors or hand-craft their own release, the DIY route is not just becoming more attractive but in many cases essential.

Stay tuned to the SXSW Film Conference site for updates on panels and confirmed speakers.