Hopefully you’ve heard, but the 2017 Film Independent Forum kicks off tonight at the Directors Guild of America West, with a screening of John Curran’s historical drama Chappaquiddick followed by a Q&A with Curran and lead actor Jason Clarke—already receiving early awards-season raves for his portrayal of scandal-plagued politician Ted Kennedy. Plus, Opening Night reception! Sounds fun, no?

Thus begins two action-packed days of panels, screenings, special events and networking opportunities designed to arm you—the working filmmaker—with the tools needed to better understand and navigate today’s increasingly complex film industry. Saturday highlights include panels devoted to creative financing, career sustainability for documentary filmmakers, a legal case study of HBO’s recent docu-series The Defiant Ones and the booming world of episodic TV. Plus networking luncheons, works-in-progress screenings and more. For a complete list of Saturday events, click here.

Sunday kicks off with Get Out mastermind Jordan Peele, delivering the first of the day’s two keynotes—to be followed later in the day by an in-depth discussion with Dee Rees about her upcoming film Mudbound, already hailed as one of the best films of the year and an all-but-guaranteed awards contender. Additional Sunday events include our regular “Made in LA” panel, web series case studies, marketing and distribution clinic, VR panel and, to wrap it all up, Closing Night Happy Hour. Click here to learn more.

The good news? Day passes and full weekend passes will be available at the door. Even better, become a Film Independent Member for an immediate Forum discount.

And you’re not in LA or are unable to attend in person, never fear. It’s still possible to follow along (in part) from home—just follow us on Twitter and Instagram. Also, be sure to watch this blog for full panel recap and subscribe to our YouTube to watch select panels, keynotes and Q&As. We’ll hook you up.

The 2017 Film Independent Forum takes place October 20-22 at the Directors Guild of America (DGA) in Los Angeles. See you (very) soon.