Breaking Through The Lens is a pioneering initiative connecting female directors to top-tier finance at the Cannes Film Festival.
10 Feature Films are selected and presented in front of a curated guestlist of investors, sales agents and distributors. This program is meant to be a practical resource for a wide variety of women, one that is multi-cultural, intersectional and results-driven. Our 2019 event was a huge success, with a sold-out audience of 100+ with 11 production countries represented.
View photos and video from last year’s event.
We are currently approaching our 3rd year at the Cannes Film Festival, which is sure to be our biggest and best yet. Our BTTL 2020 Jury so far includes Emma Berkofsky (Head of Development at Lionsgate) and Nina Ritter (Acquisitions at Studio Canal).
As a registered charity, BTTL relies on the generous contributions of our community. Every small amount helps and is greatly appreciated. Use of funds are detailed at the bottom of this page.
Connecting Female Directors to Finance

“In an industry that has favoured the Male Voice for so long…
Breaking Through The Lens is changing that Dynamic.”
– Liza Foreman, Front Page, Cannes Market News


Cannes is regarded as one of the most prestigious film festivals in the world, last year drawing over 37,000 industry professionals from 135 countries. It is the most widely covered media event after the Summer Olympics Games. Join us as we bring the 3rd edition of ‘Breaking Through The Lens’ back to the vibrant city of Cannes, attracting top industry leaders in support of bold, new, female talent.
We need your help to make our next event possible and to expand Breaking Through The Lens as a supportive network for female filmmakers from around the world.

- Location Fee
- Audio/Visual equipment for the event
- Travel stipend for filmmaking teams
- Operational costs to run the event
- Catering for the event
- Marketing materials and web design
- Photography and video team covering the event
- PR for the event