Film distribution is changing. In addition to the major marketplaces, there are about 200 platforms (and growing) where you can feature your movie. The common thread between all these marketplaces is they want technically sound, profitable content.
If you have read Filmmaking Stuff for any length of time, you know how much I stress the importance of building an audience and allocating monies for your marketing and distribution. And while putting your focus on the marketplace is essential for success, you also need to make sure your movie matches the ever-evolving technical specifications required for distribution.
Future Proof Your Film
A checklist for prepping your film for distribution.
- Deliver your source file in uncompressed 1920 × 1080 HD.
- Create a 5.1 audio mix for HD delivery.
- Make sure you create closed captions for US markets.
- Subtitles are necessary for titles not shot in the native language.
- All platforms will require E&O insurance.
Some of you have movies in SD without a 5.1 mix. I suggest you work quickly to get these movies into the marketplace before delivery standards increase. There may come a time when many platforms no longer accept SD as a delivery standard.
While these HD requirements may be challenging to deliver, it is essential to stay optimistic. Getting your movie seen and sold is far better than collecting dust on an otherwise empty bookshelf for many of you. And if you are still in pre-production, ensure these costs are part of your distribution budget.
For further help with film distribution, check out my How To Sell Your Movie resource.
