We all cheered for Sharmeen Obaid as she went up on stage to receive her 2nd Oscar this year for her latest documentary film. Often the glamour we see on screen masks the real story behind successful film projects. This panel will take a look behind the scenes for three independent films through the eyes of the filmmakers and explore the motivations and challenges for filmmakers, particularly funding and distribution. The essential question of “films as agents of change” will be addressed, and as such, the role of crowdfunding for films will also be explored.