Distribution : Finding distribution & knowing if it’s the right fit by Samantha Murdock Hussey

Samantha Murdock Hussey Congrats on getting to post that’s a big milestone.

From what I’ve seen, a lot comes down to positioning the film clearly before reaching out. Having a strong festival strategy, a clear audience, and knowing whether your film leans more toward SVOD or AVOD in tone and scale can really shape those conversations.

It also seems helpful to approach distributors with a concise package trailer, logline, synopsis, and any early buzz or festival selections so they can quickly understand where it fits in the market.

In terms of outreach, I’ve noticed many filmmakers connect through festivals themselves or via sales agents who already have relationships with platforms.

Curious—are you aiming more toward a specific type of platform, or keeping it open depending on the response?

Add me and contact me with DM. FilmPod may be part of your solution.

HI! DM me- a veteran of 30 years in global distribution (both as a seller and buyer). Festival strategy means zero these days. It really boils down to running numbers per territory and medium- with deep dive on genre, budget, cast, and distributors who have released similar titles and success or failure when picked up for release. Every 3 months the landscape changes. Also never approach distribution companies 30/60 days before major markets. They already completed the line up and won't respond.

Alexia Melocchi Sent a request! Would love to talk more with you, this comment alone is insightful!

Take a look at similar titles on IMDb and go to the companies section. There you will find the film's domestic and international distributors. The company that has their territory listed as "Worldwide" is usually the sales agent, a company that takes projects to the international marketplace and sells international rights.

Do you have a clear festival strategy? It's not just about getting into festivals but also which festivals you're showing at, whether the film garners buzz there, and if the festival has a robust sales market. Without those elements, much of the film's success will depend on who is leading the film in front of camera and whether that person has an audience that will intentionally seek it out. Do you have recognizable stars?

Wes Ambrecht It's local talent from the city where we shot, Austin TX, and our strategy is aimed at more first-time filmmaker friendly festivals, smaller festivals in big cities, with a few of the bigger festivals on our radar but keeping a realistic approach to the film's festival strategy. If you have any advice, recommendations, etc, please let me know!

My gut instinct overlaps with Alexia Melocchi in that case. Festivals probably won't get the film sold. You should be looking for a sales agent, if you don't already have one, who can assist with the hunt for distribution.

IMDb pro would be a good place to start to narrow down companies that fit your niche, budget range, and level of accessibility. Festival networking is also pertinent. As far as talking to them, be clear and professional without being pushy. Explain exactly what you’re looking for (in this case SVOD or AVOD placement). Try to have all your materials ready to be shown/sent if needed, including the pitch deck, one sheet, festival strategy, any marketing plans, script, and whatever else you have that’ll help convey the project quickly and efficiently.

Awesome advice on this thread. We also have a really great class on distribution that will help you navigate the different options: https://www.stage32.com/education/products/creating-a-distribution-and-m...