Filmmakers often approach the ICO to distribute their films and get into UK cinemas. There was intense competition for screen space in the UK with 915 films being theatrically distributed in 2018. There is no one route to the cinema screen. With over 300 theatrical distributors in the UK and self-distribution becoming more common, it can be difficult for filmmakers choosing the right distribution method. MovieTransit was created to offer the highest quality service to independent distributors as well as major movie studios. It offers an innovative and powerful feature that can boost the quality of your film. Find the most efficient DCP delivery platform now to improve your delivery of content!
Traditional route
A film looking for distribution should enter an international film festival like Sundance, Toronto, Cannes, London, Sundance, Sundance, Sundance, Sundance, or Berlin. Global distributors will see the film and, if they are lucky, may bid against one another for distribution rights in their respective territories.
The direct approach
What can you do if your film doesn’t fit the criteria for a commercial film? You can still contact festivals directly. However, you can also approach distributors in your country or abroad with a track record of distribution films of similar genres. See if they are willing to do the same.
Self-distribution
You can also consider self-distribution. Self-distribution allows you to pitch cinemas directly without the use of a middleman. You can produce your own film materials (DCPs), and marketing materials (posters or trailers, etc.). You can also book and pay for your advertising.
A specialist PR firm should be hired to ensure that the national film press (print, online and offline) has seen your film in advance and reviews it on the day of its release. A review is free advertising, and a good one can help you get your film in cinemas. The BBFC must certify your film, organize exhibitor screenings at cinemas three months in advance, and then sell the film to the cinemas. It can be difficult to convince them to select your film over other releases every week in the UK. You must first communicate why your film is so great and then explain how you plan to make it visible to the right audience.
Visibility is achieved through festival exposure, reviews, word-of-mouth, and advertising. This is the most difficult thing to do to get and convince cinemas. A major international studio will spend 7 figures to promote blockbuster films, while an independent art house will spend 5 figures. Think about other ways you can increase visibility.
What is it that makes your film stand out and attracts people to watch it? You can be creative with a small budget. Remember that editorial is completely free. So get out there and create stories about your film. Consider possible connections: Does your film relate to an upcoming event like International Women’s Day? Does it relate to a current issue, a historical figure, or a cultural trend that might garner media attention? Is it relevant to a specific region? Can you identify communities that may be interested in it?
After a cinema has booked your movie, you must deliver the copy on time in a professional format (typically DCP). After screenings, you must provide a trailer, posters, and stills to promote the movie. You also need to collect box office data (numbers of admissions and revenue earned at the boxoffice per screening). You must invoice the cinema and chase payment.
