Clay Epstein, president of Film Mode Entertainment, has spent his life pushing the boundaries of what is possible for independent filmmakers. Epstein is inventive, always looking for that special "something" that makes a film stand out. In doing so, he has created a successful career in making films through Film Mode Entertainment and has become the co-chair of the Indedpent Film & Television Alliance (IFTA) and American Film Market (AFM). Epstein gives us the latest forecast in domestic and international trends, where the independent film circuit is going, and what filmmakers should do to take advantage of both IFTA and AFM's services. 
The IFTA supports, protects, and advances the global independent film and TV industry. Their membership includes more than 140 companies from 23 countries. From independent production and distribution companies to sales agents and financiers, they are the only organization that unites the collective voice of Independents worldwide and ensures that they are well represented across all issues that impact the independent business.
AFM includes acquisition and development executives, agents, attorneys, directors, distributors, festival directors, financiers, film commissioners, producers, writers, the world’s press, and all those who provide services to the motion picture industry. This brings a place for everyone to converge to push forward those must-see films. Epstein is a wealth of knowledge about independent filmmaking and gives valuable tips and tricks to get yourself in the door. 
Host: Monica Gleberman
Editor: Miranda Currier
Social Media Graphic: Jojo
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Bio:
Clay Epstein is the President and Owner of Film Mode Entertainment, a worldwide sales and distribution entity with a producer friendly initiative. In addition to representing worldwide rights, Clay executive produces many of the company’s titles. In 2021, Film Mode launched a consulting division offering producers expertise and guidance on financial models, marketing, and distribution strategies.
Film Mode has had recent successes with films such as CRYPTO starring Kurt Russel, LITTLE PINK HOUSE starring Catherine Keener and Mayim Bialik’s directorial debut AS SICK AS THEY MADE US starring Dustin Hoffman, Candice Bergan, Dianna Agron and Simon Helberg.
Prior to Film Mode, Clay was SVP Sales & Acquisitions at Arclight Films. He was instrumental in acquiring and representing high profile films such as Paul Schrader ’s DOG EAT DOG starring Nicolas Cage, and the Spirig  brother’s PREDESTINATION starring Ethan Hawke. Earlier in his career, Clay represented prestigious titles such as TSOTSI (2006, Academy Award Winner for Best Foreign Language,) and THE LAST STATION (2010, Academy Award Nominee for Best Performance by an Actress.) Clay earned a BA in Fine Arts, from California State University, Northridge majoring in Film Production and minoring in Italian Language.
In addition to his professional accomplishments, he holds the elected position of Chairman of Independent Film and Television Alliance. Clay is an instructor at UCLA Extension, and a frequent lecturer at film festivals worldwide., a member of PGA, FIND, BAFTA LA, and the Australian Academy Cinema Television Arts.
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