A panel of women filmmakers participate in San Diego's

A panel of filmmakers participate in San Diego Women’s Film Network at ArcLight Cinemas in La Jolla. Courtesy photo

SAN DIEGO–ArcLight Cinemas and San Diego Filmmakers recently formed the San Diego Women’s Film Network, a new forum uniquely designed to support, educate and enrich women working in and those aspiring to work in the film, media, and entertainment fields.

The new joint venture kicked off July 19 at ArcLight Cinemas in La Jolla with a special evening of content specifically designed for industry women. Attendees heard valuable advice and insight from accomplished speakers in the film and entertainment industry discussing the high-priority issues facing women in the filmmaking industry today.

Panelists at the event included: Stephanie Caleb; President of Creative Affairs, Cinelou Films/Cinelou Releasing; Linda Brown, Emmy Award-winning cinematographer; Brent Altomare, founder of Groovy Like a Movie Studios; Jodi Cilley, founder and president of Film Consortium San Diego; Carly Starr Brullo Niles, founder of Love Machine Films; Katayoun Marciano, writer/producer; and Jazmin Borad, director of programs for The Geena Davis Institute on Gender in Media. The panels were moderated by Lisa Remillard, morning anchor for Good Morning San Diego on KUSI News, and Marianne Kushi, anchor for NBC-7 News Today.

“It is important to discuss how the film industry is impacted by women filmmakers, especially in the San Diego region. The launch of this network is a golden opportunity for aspiring filmmakers to learn more about challenges faced by women in entertainment, and how women can collaborate within the industry to make cinematic history,” stated Gretchen McCourt, ArcLight’s Executive Vice President.

“With this network, we’re striving to increase our resources for women in the San Diego Filmmaking community to enhance professional growth in entertainment industry leadership positions,” said Francine Filsinger, president of San Diego Filmmakers.

Organizers say San Diego Women’s Film Network is strongly supported by the San Diego community, providing educational and collaborative opportunities, meaningful and inspiring event programming unique to women in the entertainment industry, and networking opportunities for women in film.