Question 3

The distribution of a film (or movie) is the process through which a movie is made available to watch for an audience by a film distributor. This task may be accomplished in a variety of ways; for example, with a theatrical release, a home entertainment release (in which the movie is made available on DVD –video or Blu –ray disc) or a television programme for broadcast syndication and may include digital distribution. • Stages of distribution • Someone has an idea for a movie. • They create an outline and use it to promote interest in the idea. • A studio or independent investor decides to purchase rights to the film. • People are brought together to make the film (screenwriter, producer, director, cast, crew). • The film is completed and sent to the studio. • The studio makes a licensing agreement with a distribution company. • The distribution company determines how many copies (prints) of the film to make. • The distribution company shows the movie (screening) to prospective buyers representing the theatres. • The buyers negotiate with the distribution company on which movies they wish to lease and the terms of the lease agreement. • The prints are sent to the theaters a few days before the opening day. • The theatre shows the movie for a specified number of weeks (engagement). • You buy a ticket and watch the movie. • At the end of the engagement, the theatre sends the print back to the distribution company and makes payment on the lease agreement. ‘Entertainment Film Distributor’ is the UK’s leading independent distributor. “The company was founded in 1978 and has showed continuing growth and success since that time distributing a wide range of product and building a significant film library. In fact, since the millennium the company’s releases have totalled a remarkable 38 Oscar wins and 22 BAFTA’S. Entertainment has had further success with other big box office hits such as Gangs of New York, Hairspray, Sex and the City, Saw and Final Destination”. The reason why I would consider this distribution outlet for my film is because the distribution is successful and also the UK’s leading independent distributor. Also because they specialise in the same genre of my film and have won major awards which can help promote my film globally. ‘Dogwoof ’ founded in 2004 has released award-winning independent films from around the world such as Food,Inc.,Burma VJ,The age of stupid etc. Dogwoof distribution is different from the average film distributor; they work with intimately with filmmaker s every step of the way through the release process across various platforms. Dogwoof acquires all rights for exploitation across all platforms, with a special focus on backing its theatrical releases with award winning major press, marketing, social media and outreach campaigns. In 2011, Dogwoof expanded its operations into international sales; helping filmmakers promote and sell their film right globally through its network of fellow international distributor and broadcasters, in addition to a guaranteed UK distribution deal. The reason why i would consider this distribution for an outlet for my film is because the company is growing in strength and is constantly working on the success of their distribution which makes them reliable and determined. Another reason is because they help filmmakers promote and sell their film globally through its network which means my film will be recognised around the world not just in the UK. Dogwoof specialise in all genre types so it would be suitable if I were to consider them. ‘Striped Entertainment’ specialises in finding the right audiences for smaller and overlooked quality films. Striped Entertainment is a new sales and distribution company for the digital age, run by experienced industry professionals. Striped Entertainment represents films for both US/Domestic Distribution, as well as for international sales. On the international side, Striped Entertainment acts as worldwide sales representative, or sales agent. They license and market films and documentaries in international territories worldwide. The reason why i would consider them as an outlet for my film is because they focus on the quality of the film, not the quantity. They also represent both US and UK distribution which could help promote my film globally. Another reason is because they specialise in all genres of film including documentaries and lastly they run by experienced industry professionals which mean they are reliable and trustworthy. Self Distributors such as “YouTube” is a video sharing website created by three former PayPal employees in February 2005, on which users can upload, view and share videos. Most of the content on YouTube has been uploaded by individuals, although media corporations including CBS, BBC, VEVO, HULO, and other organizations offer some of their material via the site as part of the YouTube partnership programme.