What is Film Distribution By Rae Francis – Reid

Definition of Film Distribution. “The branch of the film industry where the finished film is supplied to places

it will be shown.” (Source: http://www.eicar-international.com/definition-distribution.html)

It is the link between the film maker and the public. This allows the film to reach out to the public through the cinema, DVD and television.

Film Distribution is a very long process, from the producer of the film to the customers of the cinema.

The Process of Film Distribution. 1. An idea. – the person is ready to create the vision of which they are

ready to provide for the public.2. Creating an outline. – this where a team that is bought together,

such as a screenwriter, producer, director and cast and crew come up of ways to promote an interest into the ide.

3. Finished product of the film. – this could take months, or even years. The film is completed and sent to the studio. When the film arrives a licensing agreement has been made with the company that will distribute the film. – this will be decided on how many copies of the film will be made.

4. Screening. – the distribution company organises. This is for potential buyers of the film who are representing different cinema companies. The buyers then negotiate a price with the distribution company on the films that they will wish to lease. A lease agreement is also made.

5. Prints. – prints of the film is sent to the cinema. This is done a few days before the official release date. An engagement (the number of weeks that the cinema shows the movie for).

6. The viewers. – the audience that is interested in the film. Buy a ticket to view the movie.

7. The end. – at the end of the engagement the print of the film is sent back to the distribution company and makes the payment to the lease agreement.

… Third part of the film supply chain: referred to as “the invisible art” “The Invisible Art”. This the most important part of the film industry. This is

because the film is brought to life and is able to connect with the audience. This is also about verifying a release date for the film and sustaining films in

the market.

Marketing. Ways of which Film Distributors can market a film:

Billboards Advertisements this Bus advertisements could be through online and mobile Through ‘word of mouth’ Emails

Examples of Major Film Distributors: Warner Bros – The Great Gatsby, Man of Steel 20th Century Fox Walt Disney Motion Pictures Paramount Pictures Universal Studios Columbia Pictures Pixar