Film Distribution

Taught by Michelle Alexandria
Producer, PGA Member, Film Distributor

There are more opportunities today than ever before for you to find distribution for your independent feature film. Theatrical releases are making a big comeback with companies like Apple getting into the game, streamers like Amazon, Netflix, Hulu are hungrier than ever for content and digital platforms like iTunes, GooglePlay (and more!) are all avenues to distribute your film. There are literary dozens of homes for your film in today’s marketplace.

So how do you choose the right distribution platform for your film, and how do you make sure that you get the best deal once you do?

First, it is critical that you understand the distribution landscape immediately as you begin your film’s journey, as it will allow you to make the best decisions in setting your budget, development plan, and the scope of your production. Distribution will have major implications for your shoot, so it is crucial that you don’t wait until the film is done to start looking for distribution… you need to start now!

The trick to securing the best possible distribution for your film comes down to understanding the distribution process and current global film market. As a filmmaker and producer, you have control over a number of essential aspects in the dissemination of your film, from finding the right distributor for your film (much more on this) to understanding distribution contracts and what you can negotiate to protect yourself and the lifetime rights of your film.

In this exclusive Stage 32 on-demand 4-Session Class, Michelle Alexandria – a producer who has worked on 25 feature films with budgets up to $6MM – will teach you the ins and outs of today’s complex distribution landscape to ensure you are in the best position possible to secure a great distribution deal for your independent film.

Value: R7,250.00

Taught by Jon Reiss
Distribution Expert (works with Paramount, Screen Australia, Film Independent, Creative Scotland)

It’s undeniable we’re living in exciting times as it relates to film distribution. The avenues to distribute a film have never been greater and it seems like new, viable options are popping up every day. But, as is the case when presented with numerous choices, how can you be sure you’re making the right distribution decision for you, your investors and everyone connected to the film?

A wrong decision could lead to disastrous results for your film and impact careers and future prospects to raise financing. We can’t let that happen, and we’re here to help.

Jon Reiss is one of the top film distribution experts in the entertainment industry. Over the last 2 decades, he has worked with numerous filmmakers, companies, and organizations who are looking to connect with audiences and distribute their work in the digital landscape. He has worked with and consulted for Paramount Pictures, Screen Australia, Film Independent, Creative Scotland, The South Australian Film Corporation, and numerous film schools and festivals. Jon was the Senior Lab Leader at the IFP Filmmaker Labs for ten years.

In this exclusive 2-part on demand Masterclass, Jon will provide a comprehensive roadmap to success in the current environment, tailored for independent filmmakers, producers and financiers who are ready to take control of their distribution prospects and assure they are putting themselves in a position to win.

Whether you’re looking to make a splash on the festival circuit, break into streaming services, or explore international markets, this class will provide you with the tools to make informed decisions and craft a distribution strategy that aligns with your artistic and commercial aspirations.

PLUS! You’ll receive these downloadable handouts:     

• Blank Rights Grid
• Niche Outreach Spreadsheet
• Outreach Partner Deck Guide
• Sample Partner Deck
• Sample Social Toolkit
• Sample Press Kit
• Sample Screening Guide
• Think Outside the Box Office by Jon Reiss
• Various blog articles including the recent Report from Sundance

Value: R3,650.00

Taught by Chad Miller
Founder and Manager

There are thousands of shows and films to watch on Netflix, Amazon, Hulu and other streaming platforms. Now, more than ever, there is a constant stream of incredible stories being told by content creators from all over the world. It is safe to say that there is something for everyone when it comes to this new form of distribution. But that doesn’t mean you can just call up a streaming service and request a meeting! So, how do you get your story on a streaming platform for all the world to see?

You need to understand the hurdles that content creators face in getting their product on these important streaming platforms and how to overcome them. Understanding the business structure of these top three players is key for you to break in, get your film or series seen through this distribution option and make money by doing so. It’s important that you understand the global structure of these streamers, how they choose their content and what potential revenue might be for you as a filmmaker.

Chad Miller has been working in the entertainment industry for more than 15 years and the bulk of his experience has been specifically focused on the business of on-demand entertainment. He’s worked with Gravitas Ventures distribution specializing in Amazon, Hulu and Netflix and prior to that was with AT&T working with all the major studios ensuring that both their big tentpole titles were available to customers and also helped evaluate new content from new content aggregators and distributors. Now, he’s bringing his extensive and specialized knowledge exclusively to the Stage 32 community.

Chad will be discussing the broad differences between Amazon, Hulu and Netflix and how each of these streaming platforms select their content. You will learn the business structures of each of these platforms, what your distribution reach is and what your revenue expectations are as a content creator on these payment structures. You’ll even walk away knowing international distribution options and ways you can negotiate the best deal.

Value: R1,000.00

Taught by Kristin Harris
SVP, Production & Development at Vertical Entertainment

With more streaming platforms than ever before picking up films, understanding the intricacies of distribution contracts has never been more critical. Traditional distribution agreements don’t always apply to the world of streamers, and you need to be prepared for the shifting landscape.

The biggest obstacle you face when distributing your film is the sheer volume of terms and conditions buried in these contracts. What about theatrical vs. non-theatrical rights, SVOD, aVOD, and TVOD agreements? And how do you handle backend splits, residuals, and ensuring the right distribution fees? This class will break down these complexities, so you’ll know what questions to ask before entering into any agreement.

Kristin Harris is the perfect guide to walk you through these nuances. With nearly two decades of experience working in development, production, acquisitions, and distribution, she has been involved in the release of critically acclaimed films such as SHORT TERM 12, MEADOWLAND, SUNSHINE CLEANING, and LOVING VINCENT. As the SVP of Production & Development at Vertical Entertainment, Kristin knows the ins and outs of distribution from both an indie and studio perspective, and she’s helped countless filmmakers secure the best possible deals for their projects.

This exclusive 2-Part on demand Stage 32 class will give you the tools to navigate not only standard theatrical and non-theatrical deals but also the unique terms that come with streaming licenses, helping you navigate your own distribution decisions. This is insight you won’t easily find elsewhere.

By the end of this class, you’ll have a comprehensive understanding of distribution contracts, sales agents, and how to work with streamers. You’ll dive into key provisions like distribution fees, rights negotiations, marketing materials, and the payment terms for different types of content, from theatrical releases to international sales. You’ll walk away knowing how to structure deals, protect your interests, and secure the right partnerships to get your film in front of the right audience.

Plus, you’ll also receive a downloadable Backstop Offer Template.

Value: R3,650.00