Beyond Representation: The Business Case for LGBTQ+ Inclusion in Film
Join us for a dynamic panel exploring the tangible benefits of LGBTQ+ representation in the film industry. Experts from various film industry sectors will discuss how inclusive storytelling enriches narratives and drives audience engagement and box office success. Through case studies and real-world examples, the panel will explore the financial advantages of diverse casting and hiring LGBTQ+ storytellers as well as the growing demand for LGBTQ+ stories in mainstream cinema. Discover how embracing inclusivity is not just a moral imperative—it’s a strategic business decision that fosters innovation, profitability, and a more vibrant film landscape.
Moderator
Sav Rodgers, Transgender Film Center
Panelists
Alex Schmider, GLAAD
Julia Stier, Cold Iron Pictures
Presented by
the Transgender Film Center and GLAAD
Speakers
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Sav Rogers (He/Him)Filmmaker & Founder, Transgender Film CenterOriginally from Kansas, Sav Rodgers is a filmmaker, screenwriter, and pop culture documentarian whose feature directorial debut CHASING CHASING AMY (Tribeca ‘23) explores the complicated legacy of Chasing Amy (1997) and its profound impression on his life. The TED Talk he gave in 2018 kickstarted this filmmaking journey, and spurred the writing of scripts that center on highly specific, surprising stories about queer people. His screenplays have been recognized by GLAAD, Outfest, ScreenCraft, among others. Named to Forbes’ 30 Under 30 Media List in 2024, Sav is also the Founder and Executive Director of the Transgender Film Center, a nonprofit aiming to help trans creators bring finished films to audiences around the world. Sav is a proud University of Kansas graduate and still sports KU baseball caps wherever he goes.
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Alex SchmiderSr. Director, Entertainment & Transgender InclusionAlex Schmider is an Emmy®, Peabody, and Critics Choice Awards recognized producer and the Director of Transgender Representation at GLAAD where he educates, advises, and consults on transgender and nonbinary characters, storylines, marketing campaigns, and gender inclusion on digital platforms. A member of the Producers Guild of America and the Television Academy, his producing credits include Changing The Game (Hulu), Disclosure (Netflix), Framing Agnes (Kino Lorber), Stay On Board: The Leo Baker Story (Netflix) and Chasing Chasing Amy. Most recently, he was named one of DOC NYC’s 40 Under 40.
