The Ebertfest academic panel discussions, free and open to the public, will be at the Illini Union, 1401 Green St., U. The schedule:
— 9:30 a.m. to 11 a.m. April 24: "What Does the Future Hold for Independent Film?", moderated by festival director Nate Kohn. Pine Lounge, first floor.
— 9 a.m. to 10:15 a.m. April 25: "Today's Writer/Director – It's Not Just Business, It's Personal," moderated by Eric Pierson. Pine Lounge, first floor.
— 9 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. April 26: Book signing with actor-director-writer Hadjii, who will sign copies of "Don't Let My Mama Read This: A Southern Fried Memoir." General Lounge, second floor.