This document discusses options for distributing an independent film. It provides information on major film studios and independent distribution companies, noting that independent companies are more likely to be interested in independent dramas from new creators. It also discusses potential marketing strategies such as online promotion on social media and through trailers, as well as exhibition in cinemas and through posters and flyers. Self-distribution is also presented as an option that allows cutting out middlemen but requires more work.

1. What kind of media institution
might distribute your media
product and why?

2. What is a film distributor?
Google definition: A film distributor is responsible for the marketing of a film. The
distribution company is usually different from the production company.
Distribution deals are an important part of financing a film.
https://www.google.co.uk/search?q=What+is+a+film+distributor%3F&oq=What+is+a+film+distributor%3F&aqs=chrome..69i
57.1206j0j8&sourceid=chrome&es_sm=91&ie=UTF-8

3. The top 4 major film
distribution
companies:

4. Number 1 - Warner Bros. Entertainment
(Time Warner)
Date founded:
1923
Number 2 - The Walt Disney Studios
(The Walt Disney
Company)
Date founded:
1923
Number 3 - NBCUniversal Universal
Pictures
Date founded:
1912
Sony Pictures Motion Picture Group (Sony)
Columbia Pictures
Date founded:
1924
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Major_film_studio

5. Irish Film Board
Independent
BBC Films
Sources:
http://www.independentfilmcompany.com/
http://www.ifsfilm.com/Resources/Distributors.php
Balcony Films
Independent Distribution Companies

6. Think about the sort of film you have produced. Compare
this to the type of films the distribution companies have
released before – are any of them likely to be interested
in your film? Explain why.
Our film would be more appealing to the independent distribution companies. It
would be shown at film festivals to companies looking for a potential film to back.
The kind of films these companies release are independent dramas. These films
are usually quite different to the popular films out there, as they are more original
ideas. These films usually have less known cast and crew, which makes it harder
for these companies to get hype for the film.

7. Is your film going to appeal to UK audiences only?
Or does it have a wider appeal? Why? Why not?
Our film is more likely to appeal to the UK audience
because of its stereotypical english setting and story.
This is because our movie takes place in Reigate
College. ‘College’ has a different meaning in other
countries, such as America., which may create
confusion. Although it could appeal to other countries
because of its genre which is aimed at teens, and it
could still have some relatable features for teens from
different countries. For example, having crushes and
struggling with society.

8. Possible marketing strategies, release strategies
and exhibition options (Go back to Launching
Films video - part 2 for a useful insight)
Online - Over social media, such as Twitter; and YouTube, for videos, interviews
with cast and crew and small teaser clips.
TV and Radio - Adverts on both TV and the Radio. Also interviews with cast and
crew over the radio.
In Cinema - Videos, Traillers and teaser clips from film will be played before a film
of the same genre.
Other - Posters and billboards put up around for people to see during busy day
life. Leaflets or flyers given out to the public.

9. Consider self-distribution as well
Self-distribution allows you cut out the middleman, this means you won’t have to
pay someone to do the job. However, it does mean you have more work to do.
This doesn’t mean you have to do it alone, as you can hire publicists, theatre
bookers, etc. Film festivals have their negatives, as thousands of feature films are
submitted, but only a handful get chosen.
Sources: http://www.raindance.org/self-distribution-for-filmmakers/ http://www.theguardian.com/media-
network/2015/may/29/papadopoulos-sons-self-distribution-film-industry