Film distribution can be a confusing process. Finishing your first film is a great accomplishment. Dreams of scoring blockbuster status on the big screen fuel your passion to see audiences enjoy your masterpiece. So you submit your films to the big festivals like Sundance, Cannes and Tribeca. After what seems like an eternity, you receive an email in your inbox. Hopes dashed, you're not sure what to do next. How do you get your feature film distributed beyond YouTube?
The old model of film distribution was at the mercy of movie distributors. Producers, directors and audiences no longer have to kneel at the feet of film distribution companies as the only avenue to stardom. Consider these tips and make the most of the movie distribution process.
1. Eliminate the confusing and frustrating film distribution process. There are a lot of online resources and advice to help you maintain the integrity of your film while shopping it around.
2. Don't abandon film festivals just yet. Continue submitting to festivals, even the small ones.
3. Look for ways to self-distribute through a variety of mediums and create your own marketing buzz.
Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done
Get advice on film distribution
There are plenty of resources and advice out there that can help you understand the often complicated film distribution process.
I recommend: Downloading film distribution podcasts like the one from
Genwi can really help you understand movie distribution.
Indie Film Nation did an episode in 2007 on independent movie distributors. Also check out
FILMspecific for current news about the movie distribution industry. Become a member with FILMspecific and receive valuable resources like seminar information. The leading directory of motion picture distributors is the
Hollywood Distribution Directory.
Apply to festivals to increase exposure to independent film distributors
It's a fact, film distributors frequent movie festivals like Cannes, Sundance and Tribeca. However, your goal is to get your movie seen by as many movie distribution companies as possible. Whether well-known or small, submit your film to as many festivals as you can. Hopefully you'll get a write up in a local paper that could give you some leverage when speaking with agents.
I recommend: Check out
Cooblae for links to national and international film festivals, including the well known ones like Sundance and Cannes where movie distribution companies are sure to be in attendance. Check out
Withoutabox to submit your work to festivals and competitions worldwide.
Self-distribute as a movie distributor
While actively pursuing conventional avenues to independent film distributors, begin educating yourself on the art of self-distribution. Unlike the old model that film distribution companies like to use, you have media channels at your disposal.
I recommend: Create a demand. Release your film on your website making it available on DVD for a limited time with the help of
CreateSpace. Post your film online at
Film Baby or
Undergroundfilm.com. Approach local movie theaters and see if they would be willing to show your movie over a weekend.
Tips & Tactics
Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide
- The film industry is buzzing about the online community at triggerstreet.com. Insiders report that top film executives, movie distributors and screenwriters have occasionally stopped by the hip site offering a tip or two to up-and-coming talent.
The official source of Film Distributors is the Film Distributors page at Business.com
Related Resources from Business.com
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