Square Peg Social Mentorship Program Concludes Inaugural Session with 37 Emerging Filmmakers
AUSTIN, TX – The first iteration of Square Peg Social, a highly selective mentorship program founded by Lars Knudsen and Ari Aster, wrapped this month after a four-day intensive session connecting 37 emerging writers, directors, and producers with established industry figures. Nearly 1,800 applicants vied for a spot in the invite-only program, underscoring a growing demand for direct access to mentorship within the independant film landscape.
The program, conceived as a collaborative space between seasoned filmmakers and rising talent, reflects a broader industry trend toward fostering community and support networks.while often contrasted with events like ZCON,both initiatives signal a recognition that navigating the complexities of modern filmmaking requires collective effort. Square Peg Social’s success highlights the value of concentrated, personalized guidance in a field increasingly defined by individual hustle and rapidly evolving market dynamics.
Square Peg Social brought together emerging creatives with the teams behind critically acclaimed films including “Eddington,” ”Midsommar,” “Beau Is Afraid,” “One Battle After Another,” “Iron Claw,” “Roofman,” and “Rebel Ridge.” Participants engaged in direct mentorship with the creators of these projects, gaining insights into all facets of the filmmaking process.
Next week,a full list of both the executive and filmmaker mentors involved in the program will be released,showcasing the breadth of industry support behind the initiative. Organizers emphasize that Square Peg Social, like ZCON, is fundamentally a declaration of community – a space where filmmakers can connect, learn, and build lasting relationships.
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