Film Distribution & Identifying Strong Markets

There are a number of viable strategies to use when seeking distribution financing.  The most attractive packages are built around the fundamental elements of a great script, strong cast and talented filmmakers.  However, the one critical element that is often overlooked by filmmakers but never by distributors is the strength of the market.  Generally, distributors would rather take a good film supported by a strong market, than a great film and in a choppy market.  So how do you find identify the strong markets? Use the past, present, future approach.

• Past:  Take a stroll to the video store and see what films are getting the most shelf space.  Note which distributors are putting them out.
• Present:  Mind the numbers, they never lie.  Keep a record of which films are making money over a six-month period.
• Future:  Look at the production pipelines of the MPAA studios.  Studios are like mutual funds, they seek and exploit strong markets and are easy to follow.