Now that you have completed your very first film project, what’s next? Are you waiting for your phone to ring and at the other end of the phone is one of the major studios? Are your hopes that MGM, Paramount, Fox or Sony will list your title as there latest discovery of this year’s best independent films? Are you hoping for an offer to purchase your film at seven times the production cost? The odds of this happening is like winning the lottery or being selected number one in the NBA draft, not impossible, just unlikely.
Let’s not give up, there is more opportunity out their then you may know. Now it’s time for phase two of a three phase process. If your team is in place, let the self-distribution begin.
http://www.filmindependent.org/news-and-blog/diy-distribution-distribution-can-you-really-do-it-all-yourself/
Phase 2
This is where a good producer takes the lead and assembles a media team that includes public relations and marketing. A CPA or accountant is needed to control the print and advertising budget. A competent attorney is need to review exhibitors agreements. And of course, you must have great artwork that will capture the audience’s attention.
Most theatrical exhibitors are worried about the marketing plan supporting the film and if the project has enough publicity. Do not be concerned; if the exhibitor has a better offer, they will have no trobule accepting it. It’s about the business of sales and profit, not art and expression. Your indie is showing over the weekend because there’s not a new release that will occupy this theater. Move forward with your plans of recouping your production costs and bringing happiness to your investors. This is the beginning of the next funded project. There’s nothing better then a happy investor, they will advertise there profits to other investors.
http://www.filmindependent.org/news-and-blog/international-sales-agents-do-your-homework/
Phase 3
Now that your feeling yourself, it’s time to act as a major studio and branch out to other countries. Unlike phase 2, your team will not be under your control. You will need to rely on an international sales agent. If you want to play with the big boys, this is what most of them do!
Contract with skilled international sales agents that can place your film in a market that will receive the film with outstanding reviews. Think about the possibilities of having your project in Canada, South America, Germany and Africa. This won’t be cheap, it may run from 25% - 35% of the gross sales of international sales. Your investors are loving you now☺ they are requesting you to start the next production project with the same winning formula. That’s the best fan club any director or producer can ask for.
