Join our visiting filmmakers as they tell stories far away from Hollywood and New York, mixing it up with each other and the audience in sessions that range from the hilarious to the moving. Panels begin at 9:30 am daily Wednesday-Sunday, so you won’t miss lunch or your 12 noon movie. FREE tickets are handed out beginning at 8:30 am (maximum 2 per person); ticketholders may return by 9:10 am to line up in order.

Topics and speakers subject to change, and are listed pending availability.

Wednesday, August 1
SUSAN SARANDON: ONE ON ONE WITH MICHAEL MOORE
Two Academy Award-winners will grace the City Opera House stage as part of our tribute to the one, the only, Susan Sarandon. Don’t miss your chance to see one of America’s greatest living actresses and one of America’s greatest filmmakers come together for an intimate conversation outside of the glare of Hollywood that will defy your expectations. Moderator Michael Moore.

Thursday, August 2
WHO’S LAUGHING NOW?
The ice caps may be melting, the economy may be suffering, and Kim Kardashian may very well be the most famous person in America, but it’s nothing a little laughter can’t fix. Join Larry Charles and friends for a morning of wisecracks, witticisms, humor and repartees as we explore the funny business of making comedy. Larry Charles (“The Dictator”), Bob Byington (“Somebody Up There Likes Me”), Eric Kissack (“Missed Connections”), Josh Koury (“Journey to Planet X”).

Friday, August 3
MICHIGAN FILM COMMISSION
This year we’ve seen lots of great movies that were made in Michigan under the tax incentive law. Will that happen again next year, and the year after that? Attend the public meeting held bi-monthly by the Governor’s Michigan Film Office Advisory Council (of which TCFF founder Michael Moore is a member appointed by the governor – um, the last governor!). Hear first hand about the fate of Michigan’s film incentive program, which once was the best in the nation. This is a public meeting, so that means we want you, the public, to come and participate in the part of your government that is set up to support the art of filmmaking. Audience participation will be encouraged—come to ask questions or share ideas.

Saturday, August 4
FILM IS DEAD! LONG LIVE FLOPPY DISKS!
We are in the final year—that’s right, 2012—of films being made with…film! As the digital revolution sweeps over contemporary filmmaking, every digitally produced and released success story is a threat, not only to the authentic cinematic experience, but also to the long-term preservation of film. Whether you are a celluloid purist or could really care less, this eye-opening panel will change the way you think about the technology of filmmaking and the potentially catastrophic implications for our film heritage. Moderator Michael Moore and panelists Mark Cousins (“The Story of Film”), Chapin Cutler (Principal, Boston Light & Sound), Alex Karpovsky (“Supporting Characters” and ”Red Flag”), Christopher Kenneally (“Side by Side”), Wim Wenders (“Wings of Desire”).

Sunday, August 5
WIM WENDERS ONE ON ONE
After screening some of Wim Wenders’ greatest works at the festival this year, Michael Moore will join the legendary director for an intimate discussion about a life in movies. From drama to documentary and even 3D, don’t miss this rare opportunity to sit down with a one of the few great masters in the history of cinema. A panel not to be missed!