This document discusses new forms of film distribution made possible by technology. It defines distribution as getting a product to consumers through marketing and logistics. Traditionally, major studios distributed films in cinemas and on video, marketing through TV, newspapers, and trailers. Technological changes like digital encoding allow global simultaneous releases, reducing piracy risks. Distribution is now quicker, cheaper, and less fragile. Streaming services and social media have replaced traditional rental shops and marketing. The document prompts examining how films are distributed and the advantages/disadvantages for audiences.

1. New Forms of Distribution

2. Aim
• By the end of the session you will have
considered the impact of new technology in
relation to distribution

3. What is Distribution?
• Distribution: is the act of getting the product
to the consumer. This could involve the
marketing and the logistics.

4. What does a distributer do?
• Chooses which film to distribute
• Decides how many prints to make
• Negotiates where and when a film can be
released
• Sends trailers and publicity material to
cinemas
• Markets the film through the use of posters,
press and TV advertising, social media and
cast appearances

5. The Importance of Distribution
• Read the article: Distributing A Field In
England
• Make notes on key reasons/ achievements of
distribution – create a table like the one
shown

6. Table
Importance Quote from the article

7. Traditional Ways of Distribution
• Major labels: UIP, Warner, Buena Vista, 20th
Century Fox
• The Independent labels
• Released in film cinemas
• Distribution companies gain the rights to
distribute films on video
• Films traditionally marketed on TV,
Newspapers, Magazines and Trailers at the
cinema

8. Technological Changes
• Movies can now be encoded as digital data files –
recorded on an optical disk and transported or
broadcast via satellite generally 2005 onwards
• Traditional film is heavy and fragile so could be
broken through shipping
• Quality will not deaerate – normal film wears out
• This also allows the film to be released at the
same time globally – reducing risks of piracy
• Distribution is quicker & cheaper

9. • Companies like Love Film have replaced
traditional rental shops
• Social networks are a great marketing tool
• You tube allows trailers to be released
• Sky Movies etc increase in quality of digital
television

10. Exam Prep
• For the exam you the exam you will need to
discuss the various way in which a film can be
distributed and the advantages/
disadvantages to the audience.

11. Task
• In groups: Create a PowerPoint:
• Research 3 films (different genres)and who
distributed them: think about their target
audience as well as budget and create a
distribution plan for each film. List the pros
and cons of the distribution techniques you
have chosen.