Getting out to one of the major markets is very important for a number of reasons. First and foremost, the companies that distribute films in the current marketplace are inundated by films. I’ve walked into offices of distributors and they have dozens upon dozens of films all clamoring for those few spots on a distributor’s slate, with most of them sent in by mail. While most of those movies get watched, some of them don’t. But if you can get your film through the vetting process of these companies, your film will have a better chance of being moved to the top of the pile, and I believe a better chance to get picked up. Especially if it comes down to picking up that last film for the slate and they are making a decision between your film or the film of someone they got in on a blind submission. At least you’ve been vetted for them.
What do I mean by vetted? You and your distributor are going to do a lot of work together, so they want to make sure that the people they work with are worth their effort. Distributors love movies too, after all that’s why they are in the business. However, they won’t want to work with people who seem half-hearted or incompetent. The fact that you have taken the time to seek them out and you are bringing them a film that is appropriate to their company profile, shows that you are serious and professional. So you need to come across in your presentation as someone that these companies would have a positive experience working with. The process of getting the film out is a long and difficult one, where the filmmakers themselves have to take an active role even after the film has a deal in place. Just like in any business, there is no substitute for a handshake in person. Vetting just means that they will watch your film and you'll get fair consideration, with the rememberance that they've met you. It doesn't guarantee you anything, be so prepared for rejections and the lukewarm "definitely maybes".
The Patio for the American Film Market.
Film festivals are a great place to start looking for a distributor, so when you attend festivals with your film, ask other film makers who have distribution deals how their distributors are working out for them. There is nothing more encouraging than getting a recommendation from a fellow filmmaker when it comes to a distributor. If you have a producer or director tell you that their distributor is reliable, transparent in their book keeping and makes payments on time and consistently, you want to do business with that company. Find out who they are and send them a copy of your film. Make it a point to visit them at the market. Conversely if you hear that a company has some nefarious practices and they take advantage of filmmakers, stay away. Do your homework. Research contracts, study how the deal works and what you can expect, that way you know when you’re offered a bad deal.
Lastly, don’t be afraid to say no. If the deal you’re being offered isn’t up to snuff, walk away and look somewhere else. You didn’t spend all that time making your film to get ripped off and there are plenty of fish in the sea.
Istvan Criste is a multi-award winning film maker born and raised in Transylvania. Istvan lives in Los Angeles where he produces, writes and directs films and videos under his company banner Transylvanian Films. His first feature film Escape From Darwin is being released through Hollywood Wizard.
