Festival Panels 2025
SIMIFF is more than screenings — it’s about helping filmmakers take the next step in their careers. That’s why we’ve invited an incredible lineup of panelists to share real-world insights, spark meaningful dialogue, and provide the tools that you need to reach the next level. – Stick around after panel sessions for 1-on-1 meetings with the panelists.
September 5 - SMG Theater 4
Alexandra Diantgikis
Herman Phillips
Two essential tools that are reshaping filmmaking. Scriptation streamlines script annotation and collaboration, while Cinapse simplifies scheduling and crew management—helping productions run smoothly from page to screen. Join us for live demos of each platform and see how they can impact YOUR next production.
September 5 - SMG Theater 4
Meeting The Agent
Matt Smith: Agent - CAA
Ever wondered when it’s the right time to approach a major agency? Or what an agent really needs to hear in your pitch? CAA’s Matt Smith will break it down—how to make your pitch compelling, when to reach out, and even how to bring a big-name actor onto your short film.
September 6 - SMG Theater 4
Pitching To The Studios
Writer, Producer, Director: Paul Tamasy
Writer: Eric Johnson
Paul and Eric share multiple credits across a long partnership of success. Their writing work has earned them an Academy Award–nomination for, ‘The Fighter’ which script also gave Christian Bale his first Academy Award. They‘ve also written, pitched and sold successful scripts including, Patriot’s Day, The Finest Hours, The Outpost and Guy Ritchie’s, The Ministry of Ungentlemanly Warfare. Paul and Eric are pulling back the curtain on how they gets projects sold to major studios. In a hands-on workshop, they’ll walk you step by step through crafting the perfect pitch—and share what it really takes to get Hollywood to say yes.
September 6 - SMG Theater 4
Simi Valley : Open for Filmmaking
Filmed In Simi
Filmed In Simi
Filmed In Simi
Filmed In Simi
Thinking about your next project? This panel brings together Film Simi Valley, local location scouts, City Council, and permitting experts to share why Simi Valley is one of the easiest and most welcoming places to film.
From permits to locations to community support, you’ll see why so many productions choose Simi—and why you might want to bring your next shoot here.
Field Trips
At SIMIFF, our mission goes beyond screening films—we want to equip filmmakers with the resources to create their next project. That’s why we include exclusive field trips as part of the festival experience. These outings give filmmakers an inside look at Simi Valley’s one-of-a-kind filming opportunities, from historic sites to cutting-edge facilities, while also connecting them directly with the people who make the process seamless. By showing just how accessible permits and support are in our city, these field trips highlight why Simi is not only a beautiful backdrop but also a practical, filmmaker-friendly hub where creative visions can come to life.
September 6 - SMG Lobby
Simi Town Center Mall –
A Simi Valley Filming Destination
Your next movie could be shot here... within budget!
Step into one of Simi Valley’s most versatile filming hubs, the Simi Town Center Mall. With over 1,100 shoot days and credits including the Oscar-winning Everything Everywhere All At Once, the mall has become a go-to location for productions of every size. This 45-minute guided tour, led by Jason Strickland, takes you behind the scenes to see why filmmakers continue to choose this destination for its range of looks, accessibility, and film-friendly support.
September 7 - SMG Lobby
Simi Valley : Revealing Secret Locations
Santa Su Depot
Poltergeist House
Two Valleys
Simi Valley is home to some of the most unique and cinematic backdrops in Southern California, and this guided field trip gives filmmakers exclusive access to three of its gems:
Poltergeist House – Visit the legendary suburban home made famous in the classic film Poltergeist. Hear insider stories and see firsthand why this location remains one of Simi’s most iconic film sites.
Santa Susana Depot Museum – Step back in time at this perfectly preserved railway station, a living period piece that has doubled as both a historic landmark and cinematic set.
2 Valley Views – Take in sweeping vistas from 400+ acres overlooking both the San Fernando and Simi Valleys, with breathtaking landscapes and ties to the original Zorro films.
This tour is designed to spark your imagination and expand your toolkit of potential filming locations—all within Simi’s film-friendly community.