Tips and tools for film distribution

Posted on February 26, 2015

You have an Independent film that you have completed? Maybe not just yet, you may have to overcome another hurdle… Just when you think all that hard work is over, you then realize you will need to get your film distributed and out in the world…

Luckily for you, we are here to help you!

When it comes to distribution you have two choices. Which involves going to film festivals and going straight to the distributor. You could go to a film festival then approach the distributor, or go a film festival and have the distributor approach you, or do both. It all depends on what budget and timing restraints you have, Its down to you to make the decision. Do what feels right!

At film festivals the best way to get everyone hyped up and excited about your film is to submit into festivals. Film festivals are often affordable and once your in you get INSTANT press and you get to attend the festival yourself which is a fantastic opportunity for networking. Film critics and executives are there at the festival and they want to meet YOU!

If your film is good enough, you will have those distributors in queue to purchase your film, but don’t ever jump to the first offer. Collaborate with your filmmakers and weigh your options. There maybe a better opportunity around the corner. So don’t make any hasty decisions without discussion first.

Here’s a website for all the upcoming film festivals: www.filmfestivals.com
If your still waiting to push your film to DVD, waste no time and go straight to the distributor. Because they have the power to give you the press you need and of course put your film on DVD complete with packaging. Distributors are likely to release your film trailer to go along with other releases.

Take this process with these steps.

The first step is to see what companies may release your film. For example if you have a twisted, gruesome film, look the distributors up that specialize in horrors or thrillers. All  this information can be easily found at IMDb so possibly consider getting a pro account. Through a pro account you can set up a page for your film and view contacts and staff working for certain companies.

The second step, is to prepare an email to send out to your contact. This is the best way because then you can link a trailer to your film and make it accessible for the buyer to just click and watch. If you don’t receive a reply don’t let it put you down. As you can imagine they probably receive lots of emails a day with other trailer links as well. The best way to be is positive and patient! Good things come to those who wait.