Film Stage: Distribution

Film making process – Distribution
There are 5 main stages of filmmaking which consist of:
1. The majors
2. Independents
3. Selling a film
4. Launching a film
5. Logistics.

An enormous amount of time and money goes into funding the separate stages. It is said to be much harder to distribute a film than to actually making it. The distributor must be certain that they will make a sufficient return on the original investment (in other words, making profit). Being backed by a major studio can greatly increase the chances of being distributed well. For Hollywood majors, the phases of production, distribution and exhibition are often “vertically integrated”. This is a term used when these three phases are all part of the same larger process, with an individual company in charge. A good example of this is warner bros. This is because not only do they develop and produce their own films; they also have their own distribution system that helps sell their films worldwide. Most major studios have their own distribution companies. This comes with advantages which include the fact that it is very easy to set up a distribution deal, and the parent company will not have to share their profit with another company. However, it comes with a few disadvantages too such as, if the movies fails badly, there is no one else to share the costs. This is the reason why some studios partner with major movies. The distributors must have a good understanding of the marketplace and costs involved with releasing a film in that area. However, there are factors that can help to sell a film such as: major studio backing, target audience, good story, Time of the year, and sequels.

In the UK, films are released theatrically (Cinemas). The schedule for releases is done by the film distributors association. They will assess this schedule and identify a release date. They will consider a few things when doing this, such as, looking for a ‘light’ week so there Is adequate screen space at cinemas, consider the seasonality if needed and trying to avoid release dates when other popular films are due to be released.

However this is becoming harder in the UK seeing as there are as many as 10 new films being released each week.