UPstream is Film London's innovative IP showcase that features early-stage projects ripe for film/TV adaptation. Starting as a speakeasy-style pitch event in 2019, it has put pathbreaking creators' projects in front of leading producers, broadcasters, streamers and games studios. Our "IPsters"--writers and creatives working in myriad disciplines (animation, books, games, illustration, podcasts, theatre to name a few)--have gone on to develop their projects with attending buyers.

After a series of increasingly ambitious annual invitation-only events, both virtual and in-person (you can read more about the 2023, 2024 and 2025 events), we decided to try something different: UPstream as a year-round online presence. Last year was quarterly, and now, new for 2025, UPstream is a monthly subscription-driven platform on Substack.

Click here to visit the Film London UPstream Substack.

UPstream harnesses Film London's unique position as an organisation discovering and championing new creative talent, as well as its partnerships with global creative networks, to bring you projects that capture the zeitgeist, have something vital to say and push the art of storytelling forward.

The Substack is free to browse, while detailed project information and creator contact details are exclusively for paid subscribers. Buying a subscription to UPstream Live also gives you a pass to the annual event, featuring project pitches, keynotes from industry luminaries (this year we had Film4's Ollie Madden and Fleabag/Baby Reindeer producer Francesca Moody) and a networking reception.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Who is UPstream for?

In short, it's for anyone looking to develop projects for film, TV or games. Our subscribers and event attendees include development executives at leading production companies as well as independent producers, broadcast commissioners and streaming execs.

How do I submit a project to UPstream?

UPstream is not open to unsolicited submissions. We select projects through proactive scouting and by engaging with partner networks.

TESTIMONIALS

UPstream attendees have had this to say about the event:

• "Finally, an event that allows independent producers access to attractive IP from the ground floor."
• "A great event that brings together the work of talented creative people with a breadth of possible opportunities for their creations."
• "Very well organised. Great mix of people and very enjoyable."
• "Excellent selection of interesting IP as ever, in the context of a very well-organised and user-friendly event. I look forward to the next one!"
• "Another great day with exciting IP showcased. Thank you Film London for curating such a brilliant catalogue of talent."