Festival Formula, founded by Katie Bignell, has 20+ years experience behind it after spotting a gap in the festival knowledge of filmmakers. Providing strategy support to filmmakers world-wide, they are a leading light and a trusted company. Our detailed bespoke strategies means you can pursue your filmmaking career with more projects and more networking opportunities. With our extensive knowledge and experience of the worldwide festival circuit, we are always up-to-date with what festivals from all levels are doing and needing. Where film schools and education bodies can provide basic prep for stepping on to the circuit, this is where we step in to drill deeper and provide advice to get filmmakers (and festivals) prepared for their journey.

 

They’re active members of the Short Film Conference and the Film Festival Alliance. Katie is also a key spokesperson on festival issues with coverage in The Hollywood Reporter and Screen Daily regarding suspect and fraudulent film festivals. She co-created the Filmmaker Lounge in partnership with Film Festival Alliance – an online space for programmers and filmmakers to discuss their roles. The company also works alongside Moviemaker Magazine to help curate the Top 25 Coolest Festivals list.

 

Previous speaking engagements include: HollyShorts, Heartland Film Festival, BFI Flare, Encounters Film Festival, San Luis Obispo International Film Festival, Sundance, SXSW and many more.

 

Selected prior jury service include: Cleveland International, Heartland International Film Festival, St. Louis International, Palm Springs Shortsfest, Young Directors Awards, Raindance, Tallgrass Film Festival, PÖFF Shorts Film Festival, IN THE PALACE International Film Festival and more.

 

Katie was the co-recipient of the Pioneering Spirit Award alongside her husband Ian Bignell which was awarded by Heartland Film. The company received the award for Outstanding Contribution to Film from London Breeze Film Festival in 2024, and the Impact Award from Poppy Jasper International Film Festival in 2025.