Understanding digital distribution is now as much a part of independent filmmaking as ramen noodles. Unlike ramen, which is easily understood, digital distribution is not.
It’s a rapidly changing industry. Digital distribution can be a strategy unto itself or only one piece of a more complex approach. There are multiple platforms and distributors.
One of those digital distributors is SnagFilms (full disclosure: parent company of indieWIRE). And as part of our Project of the Day feature, Snag will offer a phone consultation to discuss digital distribution with any filmmaker who’s voted as Project of the Week.
To be clear: This isn’t meant to suggest a distribution deal. A project of the week is just that: A project. No one’s sure if and when the film will be completed or what will happen when it is. However, it’s designed to give filmmakers more information to work with and a better idea of what they can expect from the marketplace.
This is what filmmakers can expect to get out of it:
– How theatrical and digital releases can work together
– An overview of the current digital landscape and where it may be going
– The promotional and financial value of theatrical distribution vs. digital distribution
– How to get the most out of digital-distribution platforms
– Discussion of new platforms and devices, including iPad and other tablets, smart phones, and connected TV platforms — and how they can become part of your distribution strategy.
These are the most obvious elements for discussion, but there’s probably many other questions (and answers) that will arise. This being the digital world, any discussion comes with the caveat that all is subject to change. Digital distribution is in a period of rapid evolution; odds are the landscape will be different by the time a film is ready for release. We plan to keep tabs on both sides to see what issues are the most popular and relevant; they’ll provide us with insights that we can turn into future articles.
If you want to submit your film for consideration as project of the day, click here. As always, all projects (feature, doc, short) qualify, in any stage of production from fundraising to post.
Let us know what you think about this in the comments. Or email me directly: dana AT indiewire DOT com.
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