One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned (and continue to hear from industry pros) is that distribution strategy should never be an afterthought. But figuring out when to start those conversations can be tricky.
Some distributors want to see a polished rough cut. Others want to be involved from development so they can help shape market viability. And then there are those who only come in once a film is already making noise on the festival circuit.
So I’m curious, when do YOU start planning for distribution on your projects?
During development?
While financing?
Once you’re in post?
After the premiere?
And how do you approach building those relationships early?
If you’ve been through it before, what worked (or didn’t)? And if you’re in the thick of it now, what are your biggest questions or roadblocks?
Let’s swap stories and strategies, this is where we can all really learn from each other.
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Great topic, Ashley Renee Smith. I've heard of filmmakers planning for distribution during development. I think that's smart because they're planning ahead and if the distribution plan falls through, a filmmaker will have time before the film is done to find another distribution option.
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I'd like to know if a single filmmaker here has conversations with a distributor before the film is done.
I suspect most people at our level, if they've completed a feature, just submit when it's done and hope they find a distro who can offer them the best deal.