What is a film distribution company? Are you looking to get your film out into the world, but don’t know where to start? Or perhaps you’ve already finished shooting and are ready to move onto post-production and distribution.
For filmmakers, creating content is just the beginning.
If you want an audience of more than family and friends, then it is essential that your project be distributed through a reliable distribution company.
Film distribution companies are essential for filmmakers who want their film to have a wide release.
But what exactly are film distribution companies, and what do they do? This article will explain the role of a film distribution company from production to promotion, as well as provide tips for amateur filmmakers in finding one best suited for their needs.
What is a Film Distribution Company?
A film distribution company is a business that specializes in the marketing and sale of film rights, with the ultimate aim of bringing films to the greatest possible commercial audience.
Film distribution companies act as intermediary between filmmakers, studio executives, financiers and exhibitors (where their films are ultimately seen).
What does a Film Distribution Company do?
A film distribution company holds the rights for distributing motion pictures to movie theaters as well as other video outlets.
The distributors bear the financial risks associated with getting a movie out there, from preliminary expenses (such as paying for actors and production) to ongoing expenditures such as publicity campaigns.
Distributors typically handle all aspects of movie marketing and promotion – from buying media spots to negotiating terms of release with theaters.
How Do Films Get Acquired by Distributors?
The process of acquiring movies differs from one distributor to another – however generally speaking there are three ways a distributor can become involved: Pre-sales (where products are purchased prior development), acquisitions (securing products after production is complete) or even self-distributing (when producers distribute their products without involving any external parties).
Distributors may also buy pre-existing library titles from studios seeking additional revenue for older titles yet still worth watching .
Types of Film Distribution Companies
There are a few types of film distribution companies:
The Major Distributors
Major distributors are often either studios or have close relationships with them.
They handle major releases by renowned directors and have considerable marketing budgets at hand.
They tend to distribute films around the world, getting them into as many theatres as possible.
Independent Distributors
Independent distributors handle independent films made with smaller budgets that cannot be widely marketed or released through conventional means.
This type of distributor will ensure that an independent filmmaker’s work gets seen by the right audience in select markets since they lack the resources and financial backing needed to go wide scale with its release.
Digital Distributors
Digital distributors specialize in delivering content directly to consumers via digital download or streaming outlets like iTunes, Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video and more.
These companies provide filmmakers with an avenue for connecting directly with their target audiences without the traditional theatrical route required for major releases from studio-backed distributors.
Additionally these services come with monetization options that allow viewers to rent or purchase content on an a la carte basis.
The Role of Distribution Companies in Filmmaking
Distribution companies play a crucial role in filmmaking since they offer filmmakers access to resources they wouldn’t be able to obtain independently—resources like financing assistance, promotional services and cast/crew input if available at budgeting assessments.
Furthermore, distributors help fill the gap between movie projects produced in-house by major studios/corporations and independent productions that otherwise don’t benefit from them having direct links with broadcasters or theater chains.
By aligning themselves with experienced professionals who understand how to bring cinematographic works out into viable markets, filmmakers can trust them with when it comes their moving picture aspirations—this includes helping raise money while securing maximum exposure and profits from diverse audiences
Conclusion
A film distribution company is an integral part of the movie-making process, providing a conduit for films to get to where their audiences can appreciate them.
Through expert knowledge and resources, they help filmmakers maximize their returns on investment, increase visibility and develop more fans around the world.
It’s an exciting time to be in the film industry — and having a reliable distribution partner is key to success.
Read about how to do film distribution here!
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