The Insider's Guide to Independent Film Distribution [Paperback]

Stacey Parks (Author)

Book Description

ISBN-10: 024080922X | ISBN-13: 978-0240809229 | Publication Date: May 7, 2007 | Edition: 1

Innovation in technology means that almost anyone can make an independent film these days. Although this may be good news for aspiring filmmakers, it also means that the oversupply of independent films on the market has caused acquisition prices to dramatically decrease. As a result, producers and investors rarely recover their initial investment in the films they make. But don't be discouraged! Use this book to learn the realities of the market in advance and map out a winning distribution plan.

This comprehensive manual for filmmakers and producers dedicated to film distribution and the marketplace could mean the difference between getting your film out to the public and keeping it "in the can." Learn how to sell your movie to a studio, a cable network, a video distributor, or an international buyer. Self-distribution and other alternatives to traditional distribution are also considered. As well, you'll hear some success stories from producers and hear exactly what buyers are seeking.

Stacey Parks has worked with dozens of hungry filmmakers to get their films a distribution deal and knows how frustrating the whole process can be. Let her tell you how you can take control of your filmmaking career and start getting your work seen by audiences with a few little-known distribution secrets.

Features include:
* Interviews and case studies with producers and distributors
* Ten Ways to Market Your Film for Self-Distribution
* Sales Projections per Territory
* Distribution Resource Listings
* Negotiation tips for distribution agreements
* Sample distribution agreements

* What you must know to get your independent film distributed
* Written by a distributor who knows the process inside and out
* Interviews with buyers and acquisitions executives from every sector of the business on what kinds of films they look for, what they're sick of seeing, and how their acquisitions processes work

Editorial Reviews

Review

"Well written, concise and (most importantly) honest! A must-have for indie filmmakers."--Kate Pearson, SVP, Programming, The Documentary Channel

"Finally, a contemporary and practical book about film distribution that explores this often mysterious and misunderstood part of the industry. As an academic text the approach is both classroom and reader friendly, providing information not easily found elsewhere."--Sharon Badal Faculty, New York University Tisch School of the Arts Kanbar Institute of Film and Television

"The book is well worth a read especially for those filmmakers who take the business of filmmaking seriously." - Karen van Schalkwyk, SCREEN AFRICA

"[A] great book for those who are serious about wanting to get their film distributed. Ms. Parks is clearly experienced in her field and provides the reader with information that is both practical and realistic; the book is easy-to-follow and enjoyable to read. [A] book that you will be able to use for many future projects."--MicroFilmmaker Magazine

From the Back Cover

Would you like to know how to make a movie for a few hundred thousand dollars, recoup your investors' money, and start making profits for yourself? This comprehensive manual for filmmakers and producers dedicated to film distribution and the marketplace may mean the difference between getting your film out to the public and keeping it "in the can." Learn how to sell your movie to a studio, a cable network, a video distributor, or an international buyer. Stacey Parks has worked with dozens of hungry filmmakers to get their films a distribution deal and knows how frustrating the whole process can be. Let her tell you how you can take control of your filmmaking career and start getting your work seen by audiences with a few little-known distribution secrets. Wouldn't it be great to know... * What to look for when negotiating distribution contracts? * What services are out there that can help you reach buyers directly? * How other filmmakers did it, or what they wish they'd done differently? Bonus materials include: * Sales Projections per Territory: A breakdown of what kind of returns you can expect from the various distribution territories. *Distribution Resource Listings: A goldmine of information including personal recommendations on which agents offer the best services, plus tips on how best to approach them and present your product. *Anatomy of a Distribution Contract: Know exactly what you'll be asked to sign when you do a distribution deal. This report offer tips on what to watch out for and what to avoid. Don't get taken advantage of by unscrupulous distributors.

See all Editorial Reviews

Product Details

• Paperback: 216 pages
• Publisher: Focal Press; 1 edition (May 7, 2007)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 024080922X
• ISBN-13: 978-0240809229
• Product Dimensions: 8.9 x 7.1 x 0.5 inches
• Shipping Weight: 13.6 ounces (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 4.7 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (35 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #299,315 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

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Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

15 of 15 people found the following review helpful:

4.0 out of 5 stars Good Indy Distribution Book For Beginners, June 12, 2007

By 

Mike D (Baltimore, MD) - See all my reviews

Amazon Verified Purchase

This review is from: The Insider's Guide to Independent Film Distribution (Paperback)

If you've never had a movie distributed then this is a good starter book. It doesn't contain all that you'll need, but it will definitely get you thinking in the right direction. It's got a lot of info for a decent price.

However, if you've already had a flick distributed and are looking to get a better deal on your second flick, this probably isn't the book for you, as much of this is novice-only.

So for
Fledgeling filmmakers: 4 stars
Experienced: 2 stars

Also recommended: From Reel To Deal, the Dov S. S. Simens book, that has(besides some excellent filmmaking tips) plenty to say about getting distribution for your flick.

12 of 13 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Best book on distribution, August 19, 2007

By 

Andy Michaelson "Andy Michaelson" (Los Angeles) - See all my reviews

This review is from: The Insider's Guide to Independent Film Distribution (Paperback)

I am an independent producer and i just sold my first film. I have read about 4 books on distribution, and this one was by far the most complete and logical. The `real life' case studies provided for me a world of inspiration. Without being bulky, the book focuses on what is essential and every piece of information has a real life application. So if you only have the time for one book on the subject, I think this should be the one.
Numerous contacts and "who is who" are also provided in the book.

Mitch Anderson
Producer - "TheWorldWithoutUS.com"

7 of 7 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Parks book is actually very useful, August 13, 2007

By 

P. Russell (LA) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

This review is from: The Insider's Guide to Independent Film Distribution (Paperback)

I'm a story analyst for several studios and production companies here in Los Angeles, as well as a teacher at UCLA's Extension School of Entertainment. I also have a thriving consultant business for screenwriters and development executives in the entertainment business. Park's book is the only one I've ever read that actually describes the world of independent movies today -- not three years ago, or ten. This writer actually does what she writes about. This is a very very valuable thing in a business where many of the books are written by folks who's last experience getting a film made was 10 or 15 years ago. If you want to be smart in making your movie, you'll look at what gets bought and what doesn't. This book's the biggest help for that around. Sometimes the news is depressing -- but this writer offers solutions, not just problems. I was quite happy I bought this book. There isn't one in its class, on this subject, on the market.