What does a film distribution company do? Have you ever wondered what happens once a film or television show has been completed? After all the hard work of getting it ready for release, do filmmakers just wait and hope that their audience finds it? Fortunately, this is not the case.
The job of a film distribution company is to help make sure that the finished product reaches its intended audience.
A narrative feature film or documentary may take years to make but if properly distributed, could be seen by millions of people.
This process is paramount in order to make a substantial impact with any work of art, no matter how small or large.
To understand what a film distribution company does and why they play such an important role in getting your work seen, one must explore how a well-executed plan can bring tangible benefits to both filmmaker and audience alike.
In this article, we’ll take a look at the ins and outs of film distribution and how these companies are essential pieces in the puzzle that is marketing your project.
What Does a Film Distribution Company Do?
Film distribution companies are a vital part of the movie industry.
They help get films from the producer’s hands to the audiences that will watch and enjoy them.
But what really does a film distribution company do?
Organise Film Screenings
Film distribution companies organize screenings of new releases with private, public, and press premieres.
These screenings are important for creating buzz around an upcoming film or facilitating promotional activities such as interviews and talk shows.
Sub-Licensing Rights to Various Markets
Distribution companies play an important role in selling the rights of a film to be distributed in other countries or territories where it may have greater appeal or wider exposure than its native market.
This allows a studio or production company to expand its reach into different markets by sub-licensing various rights and getting bigger returns on investment than they would if they just stuck to theatrical releases in their own country.
Create Digital Platforms for Films
In order to make sure that movies are watched by as many people as possible, film distribution companies utilise digital delivery platforms such as iTunes, Amazon Prime, Netflix, Hulu and more.
They create digital versions of all their feature films so that anyone can access them online easily without having to physically go out and purchase DVDs or Blu-rays.
This offers filmmakers greater flexibility when it comes to how they distribute their product.
Home Video Sales & Distribution
The home video market represents a major source of revenue for movies released theatrically as well as straight-to-video productions.
To get their titles onto store shelves, production houses and studios rely heavily on distributors who package the products with attractive cover art before supplying it to video stores across the country (or worldwide).
Merchandising & Advertising Campaigns
One of the biggest jobs taken up by distributors is handling the marketing campaigns behind each release, which includes launching advertising campaigns through TV spots, radio ads, print media, outdoor signage etc.
, as well as coordinating merchandising opportunities with retail outlets like toys stores or supermarkets etc.
These campaigns can be incredibly expensive but they greatly influence how successul (or not) any particular film release is going to be at the box office.
Conclusion
Film distribution companies are a crucial part of getting films into theaters and homes.
They play a major role in connecting filmmakers with audiences and making sure that their creative works reach the right people.
For those seeking to distribute their films, it’s important to research potential distribution companies, ask questions and plead your case, as well as ensure that your film is properly packaged and prepared prior to distribution.
With the help of a film distribution company, you can take your film from an idea in your head to a movie theater near you.
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