The year is fast approaching when filmmakers will be able to self-distribute their films online directly to audiences. It's a technically complex and legally thorny process, but it's also potentially a whole new way for filmmakers to earn a living from their craft.
First, there are the technical aspects of self-distribution to consider: setting up infrastructure, registering domain names, and hosting. This is the equivalent of building a warehouse, which you will use to store the physical copies of your movie.
Troy Kotsur, founder and CEO of Distribber, a company providing self-distribution services for both theatrical and VOD titles, recommends that independent filmmakers start by choosing one of the many cloud-based hosting services out there and using it as a repository for the many files that make up a film.
A Brief about Digital Self Distribution
Digital self-distribution (DSD) is a distribution method for digital media that uses the internet to distribute content directly to users' personal devices. DSD does away with the need for centralized servers and instead sends files directly from the source to users' devices. The result is a more democratic system where everyone has access to quality content without having to pay high fees or wait long periods for downloads.
Several benefits come with digital self-distribution. For example, it eliminates the need for expensive shipping costs (since no copies need to be shipped), reduces unnecessary waste (no factory overheads), and increases sales potential because customers can buy products in bulk if they're interested in doing so.
Top 4 Ways of Indie Film Distribution
Short Film Distribution: It is finding and marketing films that are shorter than 30 minutes to a wider audience. Short film distributors or the best indie film distributors often work with movie theaters, television networks, or digital platforms to bring these films to an audience. Short film distribution is the process of getting films into the hands of moviegoers, typically through theatrical release. This is where documentary distribution comes in; it refers to the marketing and exhibition of documentaries on television and other digital platforms.
Documentary Distribution: Documentaries can be distributed, but one of the most common methods is through traditional documentary channels such as cable TV, satellite TV, and streaming services. These channels are typically interested in documentaries that explore particular topics or address complex issues.
Independent film distributors or documentary filmmakers often rely on short film distribution to gain exposure for their films, as well as garnering critical acclaim that can help them secure traditional film financing or TV rights deals. Both methods offer a platform for filmmakers to share their work with a wider audience, which can lead to increased viewership and foster a greater appreciation for indie cinema overall.
Feature Film Distribution: Feature film distribution typically involves a larger budget and more time, which may be why it's better suited for movies that have theatrical release potential or major studio backing. However, it has its strengths and weaknesses depending on the type of indie film being distributed.
TV Series Distribution: TV series distribution is often used to distribute shorter-length movies that can be aired on television instead of in theaters. When it comes to promoting an independent film, TV Series Distribution is advantageous because it gives filmmakers more exposure than traditional cinema releases. Additionally, TV networks like HBO offer incredible creative freedom while still requiring adherence to certain production parameters (e.g., episode length).
Ways to distribute your feature film
1) Online Self-Distribution: The first step in the online self-distribution or movie self-distribution is to build your targeted audience before releasing the film. You can look for support groups that relate to the message of your film and contact them about its release.
Create a dedicated page on different social media networks to post updates and photos of the film to get your followers pumped up about the project.
Sites such as Vimeo and YouTube can be ideal choices for your documentary release or self-distribution films. Make sure to include a release date and a countdown timer.
You can also distribute your film to several streaming services, such as Netflix, and then take a cut of the revenue generated by the streaming.
2) Film Festivals: Getting an indie movie or documentary into a film festival is one of the best ways to get industry attention for your film. Some international film festivals are the Taiwan International Documentary Festival, Hot Docs, Freedom Film Festival, Docaviv, and more.
The process of submitting to festivals is straightforward, and the outcomes—especially if your work is featured in a festival that attracts participants from around the world—can be revolutionary. Festivals also offer excellent networking opportunities through Q&As, panels, and screenings where you can meet other potential filmmakers from all over the world.
3) Awards: Submitting your film for awards is another way to generate buzz and credibility for it. A slew of prestigious awards would look great next to your film's title. You can consider a regional Emmy and a CINE award for your documentary. Other awards include the Aurora Awards and The Academy Awards, which recognize the best filmmakers in various genres.
4) Broadcast Television: Another item on your indie distribution to-do list is to find the best platform to showcase your newly created masterpiece. If you intend to self-distribute your documentary to a network such as the BBC or HBO, you must submit a proposal outlining what your film is about and why it is important.
If your documentary is sufficiently good, you may choose to work with indie movie distributors or agents, but they will only do so if they believe your film has high-profit potential.
5) DVD: You have two options for self-distribution: a hybrid strategy or an exclusive agreement with one distributor. The majority of people chose the second option. Consider selling DVD copies at events related to your story if you want people to see your documentary and make an immediate profit.
Your website can also be used to sell digital downloads, streaming rentals, or DVDs. This is a fantastic way for you to get involved with your community while also ensuring that people have personal access to the film.
What is the best strategy for independent film distribution?
Let's discuss the most effective strategy for independent film distribution
Properly preparing the film for distribution
It entails having the film in the formats used by movie theaters. The film industry standardized how films were shown in theaters until 2002. For example, for die-hard moviegoers, most theaters no longer show 35 mm film. Digital screenings are now the norm. Most theaters accept digital files in MP4 and MOV formats. Also, VOD platforms have simplified the distribution process. Most film acquisitions occur prior to opening night.
Sell the movie directly to a streaming platform
As you know, landing a film distribution deal with Netflix still remains a pipe dream for many indie filmmakers. Moreover, selling indie rights distribution requires a process. This includes research, a thorough understanding of your target audience's market potential, comp films, and connections. Furthermore, you can still secure a distribution deal with other distributors, such as Lionsgate, Paramount, or Warner.
Raise distribution interest at a film festival
Due to several factors like paying for promotional materials, renting theaters for screenings, and other expenses, distribution can become expensive. So you can start a campaign or raise distribution interest at a film festival! Try to reach out to those you believe would be interested in supporting your film, using your understanding of your target audience.
Take care of subtitles and closed-captioning
Most international film festivals prefer submissions with English closed captions or subtitles. If accepted, subtitles in the host's native language may be required for English-language films. In addition, closed captioning is also required for VOD platforms. Such as films selected for the Berlin International Film Festival are required to have German subtitles.
Make a decision on the online streaming release strategy
When it comes to deciding on an online streaming release strategy, it is done through either a third-party aggregator or a do-it-yourself (DIY) process.
Third-Party Aggregators are vendors who specialize in movie distribution
Aggregators are responsible to handle everything from submitting your indie film to brokering deals with various VOD platforms to packaging, encoding, and delivering your film to digital platforms.
Conclusion
Making and distributing your own film is no easy task. However, with today's advanced technology, it is possible to create a self-distribution model to get your film out there on your own. All you have to do is stay focused and be willing to do the necessary work. If you are successful, it can be a very rewarding experience.
