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Home » Blog » Distributing Indie Films

Distributing Indie Films

Article by Jonny Hart

Distributing Indie Films – Marketing – Web Marketing

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It is common among new indie filmmakers to worry last about movie distributions. When I started, I was also like this. I was always focused on script writing and filming. Thinking of hammering a out a distribution deal down the road was the last thing on my mind. Typically, indie film has lower budget and little less known actors. One reason why major film outfit hesitates to distribute indie films is because of the lack of famous names on it. Small and non-affiliated distributors are usually more supportive of new film makers. To pitch your film, retails outlets like Blockbuster and Best Buy are often tapped. As an indie filmmaker, it is rewarding to note that your film will be seen while at the same time, your effort are paid in return. You get to be distribution to larger scope, you will get more revenue from it.

Prior to being sold and distributed, you need to sign a distribution agreement first. One of the conditions often include their full right to distribute your film worldwide for up to 25 years. Direct to video distribution as soon as the signing is done. Like the distributor said in their pitch your movie is at your local Blockbuster and being sold by major retail outlets. A different sets of challenges will haunt you a year after. You wont get the same pay anymore.
You will get more fees and charges from what little will you get. This section is every indie filmmaker’s nightmare coming to life. This is one sad truth that first time indie filmmakers often suffer. It wont matter now if your movie is still selling. Distributors are capitalizing on your movie and you wont get any of it. Your queries about film sales will lead you nowhere. Bottom line is, they are the ones getting the fruits of your labor. It’s rare a distribution company that caters to indie movies takes on a movie they know they can’t flip for a profit.

We’re not saying all traditional distribution agreements turn out bad for indie filmmakers. There are many distribution companies that treat indie filmmakers right and cut them checks on a quarterly basis. Venture distribution is one great example. The company never fails to inform us of quarterly sales. They did not kill us with distribution expenses. They never skip updating us on revenues and sales. Distribution companies reaping the revenues while the filmmaker gets nothing is very unfair.

Be smart and study every distribution deal tooth and nail.

About the Author

If you need to watch action short films online, then only short indie films will do.

Use and distribution of this article is subject to our Publisher Guidelines
whereby the original author’s information and copyright must be included.

Jonny Hart



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Filed Under: Filmmaker News Tagged With: Distributing, Films, Indie

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