The Insider's Guide to Independent Film Distribution - Softcover

Parks, Stacey

Softcover

ISBN 10: 024080922X ISBN 13: 9780240809229

Publisher: Focal Press, 2007

Synopsis

Innovation in technology means that almost anyone can make an independent film these days. Although this may be good news for aspiring filmmakers, it also means that the oversupply of independent films on the market has caused acquisition prices to dramatically decrease. As a result, producers and investors rarely recover their initial investment in the films they make. But don't be discouraged! Use this book to learn the realities of the market in advance and map out a winning distribution plan.

This comprehensive manual for filmmakers and producers dedicated to film distribution and the marketplace could mean the difference between getting your film out to the public and keeping it "in the can." Learn how to sell your movie to a studio, a cable network, a video distributor, or an international buyer. Self-distribution and other alternatives to traditional distribution are also considered. As well, you'll hear some success stories from producers and hear exactly what buyers are seeking.

Stacey Parks has worked with dozens of hungry filmmakers to get their films a distribution deal and knows how frustrating the whole process can be. Let her tell you how you can take control of your filmmaking career and start getting your work seen by audiences with a few little-known distribution secrets.

Features include:
* Interviews and case studies with producers and distributors
* Ten Ways to Market Your Film for Self-Distribution
* Sales Projections per Territory
* Distribution Resource Listings
* Negotiation tips for distribution agreements
* Sample distribution agreements

About this title

Review

"Well written, concise and (most importantly) honest! A must-have for indie filmmakers."--Kate Pearson, SVP, Programming, The Documentary Channel

"Finally, a contemporary and practical book about film distribution that explores this often mysterious and misunderstood part of the industry. As an academic text the approach is both classroom and reader friendly, providing information not easily found elsewhere."--Sharon Badal Faculty, New York University Tisch School of the Arts Kanbar Institute of Film and Television

"The book is well worth a read especially for those filmmakers who take the business of filmmaking seriously." - Karen van Schalkwyk, SCREEN AFRICA

"[A] great book for those who are serious about wanting to get their film distributed. Ms. Parks is clearly experienced in her field and provides the reader with information that is both practical and realistic; the book is easy-to-follow and enjoyable to read. [A] book that you will be able to use for many future projects."--MicroFilmmaker Magazine

From the Back Cover

Would you like to know how to make a movie for a few hundred thousand dollars, recoup your investors' money, and start making profits for yourself? This comprehensive manual for filmmakers and producers dedicated to film distribution and the marketplace may mean the difference between getting your film out to the public and keeping it "in the can." Learn how to sell your movie to a studio, a cable network, a video distributor, or an international buyer. Stacey Parks has worked with dozens of hungry filmmakers to get their films a distribution deal and knows how frustrating the whole process can be. Let her tell you how you can take control of your filmmaking career and start getting your work seen by audiences with a few little-known distribution secrets. Wouldn't it be great to know... * What to look for when negotiating distribution contracts? * What services are out there that can help you reach buyers directly? * How other filmmakers did it, or what they wish they'd done differently? Bonus materials include: * Sales Projections per Territory: A breakdown of what kind of returns you can expect from the various distribution territories. *Distribution Resource Listings: A goldmine of information including personal recommendations on which agents offer the best services, plus tips on how best to approach them and present your product. *Anatomy of a Distribution Contract: Know exactly what you'll be asked to sign when you do a distribution deal. This report offer tips on what to watch out for and what to avoid. Don't get taken advantage of by unscrupulous distributors.

Edition details

• Publisher: Focal Press
• Publication date: 2007
• ISBN 10: 024080922X
• ISBN 13: 9780240809229
• Binding: Paperback
• Language: English
• Edition number: 1
• Number of pages: 216