How to distribute a short film

How to distribute a short film

Short films can be distributed on a site called create space. Here films can be uploaded for free and are made into professional DVD or on digital download that are available on Amazon. This would be an appropriate way to distribute our film as we only have a low budget so cannot afford high distribution prices.  There is no start up fee for this site and the film will be distributed instantly.

The BBC website has a lot of information on distributing short films. On the website they have set up a seven step breakdown of how to market and distribute a short film. The first step is to set op a screening for the cast and crew so that they can see the finnished film. Step two is to prepare a publicity kit such as still, postcards, a website and prints. This will help with the marketing of the film. Step three is press and industry promotion, in this step you send your film to numerous advertising agencies and production companies. Once you have done this you can call or email asking for feedback and advice on the film. Step four on the website is to send the film to different festivals and events. This way the film will gain recognition and to reach our specific audience. Step five is to get a distributor or to self distribute. This way you can market and generate sales for the short film. Step six is the exhibition of your film, through cinema, DVD, TV and online. Online sites are developing all the time so are a good way to exhibit your film. Step seven is to plan your next project.

Short films can be distributed on line. There are many websites onto which you can upload your short film. These include YouTube Vimeo and The Smalls etc. This is usually a free way to distribute your film and for it to gain recognition. These sites are beneficial for us as we have a low budget so cannot afford large distribution methods like Warner Bros Home Entertainment as the big film companies can. On these sites viewers are able to leave comments and feedback for the film informing you of what they thought and maybe some improvements.