Distribution expert Stacey Parks answers the questions filmmakers ask most about distribution, sales agents, deals and getting an indie film released.
Here are some frequently asked questions that filmmakers keep asking me in regards to distribution:
Q: How can I get a pre-sale for my movie?
A: Unless you have a truly A-list cast, you really can’t. Unfortunately, the pre-sale market for indie films died down several years ago, especially in the foreign markets. The exception to this is, say, for example, you are making a straight-to-video film, and you have cast 2 or 3 actors who are “proven” in the straight-to-video marketplace. In this instance, you could probably swing a home video pre-sale from a DVD distributor. How do you know who the “proven” straight-to-video actors are? Do some research by going into Blockbuster and seeing which actors appear on the box covers again and again of the straight-to-video films – THOSE are the proven!
Q: Can I approach distributors directly or should I go through a producer’s rep?
A: For U.S DVD distribution in particular, it is very easy to submit your film directly to the distributor. In the aforementioned example, say you were able to cast a couple of these “proven” actors in your movie… Well, see which companies distributed those DVD’s you saw in Blockbuster, and contact them directly through their websites. Almost every DVD distributor I looked up online has an email address for their acquisition execs. They are waiting to hear from you!
Q: I’ve submitted to some film festivals, and while I’m waiting to hear back, is it ok to pursue distribution in the mean time?
A: YES! Always put as many irons in the fire as possible. I don’t know if you’ve noticed, but many films these days already have distribution BEFORE they even get to Sundance for example.
Q: Are distributor screenings a good idea?
A: Not really. From the feedback I’ve gotten from distributors, the last thing they want to do at the end of their day is to go to a screening after work. They much prefer to receive a DVD from you and screen it in the comfort of their home or office. Stacey Parks is the author of Insiders Guide to Film Distribution. Stacey has worked in independent film for over 10 years, and is currently a sales executive at the BBC Worldwide in Los Angeles. She was previously a foreign sales agent for many years. Her website is www.film-distribution-secrets.com.
Related filmmaking guides
Keep learning filmmaking
Want more lessons like this? Join StudentFilmmakers free for live webinars with working pros, and stream on-demand filmmaking classes in cinematography, directing, screenwriting, sound and post.
