What is film? What is the future of film? How are digital technologies changing the nature and production of film? What is the future of Hollywood? How is the Internet changing the film industry’s models of production, distribution and consumption? 

Films are now produced using a wide range of digital production technologies, distributed via the Internet, mobile devices, and various video formats, and often are viewed at the convenience of consumers. Change is everywhere.

But even with these changes, we still refer to “film,” Hollywood still distributes its products to motion picture theaters and television outlets, and the industry is still motivated primarily by profit. Some things haven’t changed. Yet. 

The conference will feature a unique coalescing of film professionals, film and media scholars and students, government and community officials, as well as film fans. The event will feature keynote speakers, roundtables, paper presentations, screenings, receptions and workshops, in an attempt to answer questions about the changing nature of cinema.

Oregon is no stranger to the film and television business, with numerous Hollywood productions filmed in the state. Likewise, a burgeoning independent film and art scene in Portland sets it apart from other U.S. cities. The release of the 3-D stop-motion animation feature, Coraline (produced by Laika Studios), has further bolstered Portland’s place in contemporary cinema.

Some of the question to be considered by panelists and speakers at this conference:

• What is film in a digital world?

• How is the film or cinema defined today?

• How is the changing nature of audiences and film consumers affecting the industry?

• What are the changing practices of the film and video businesses?

• What is the state of competition among Hollywood, independents and other studios?

• What are the prospects for Oregon's film/video industry?

• What is the relationship between the film/video business and government?

• How are digital technologies changing film production, distribution and exhibition?

• How can the Internet function as a film distribution outlet?

• What new economic models are emerging for the film industry?

• How is globalization affecting the film and video business?

• Can Hollywood continue to dominate in the U.S. and abroad?