What is a film programmer?

Film programmers are professionals responsible for selecting, scheduling, and presenting films for festivals, cinemas, museums, or other screening venues. They curate film lineups based on themes, audience interests, or artistic value, and often collaborate with distributors, filmmakers, and marketing teams. Their role may also involve organizing special events, Q&A sessions, and panel discussions to enhance the viewing experience. Film programmers play a key part in shaping the cultural offerings of a venue and introducing audiences to diverse cinematic works.