Sales and Distribution Requirements
As sales agents, the aim is to secure distribution deals for a feature film across various territories and platforms. To effectively sell a film, we shall need a comprehensive package that demonstrates the film’s appeal, market potential, and distribution readiness. Here’s a detailed outline of what is typically required. We shall then look to how to achieve a sale or distribution deal whether directly or via our sales agency and distribution network:
1. Screening Materials
Complete Film: A polished final cut of the film, ready to be screened for potential buyers.
Trailer: A professional, compelling trailer that showcases the film’s key elements (story, style, and appeal).
Teaser Clips: Short, high-impact scenes or clips that can generate interest on social media or at film markets.
2. Marketing and Promotional Assets
Synopsis and Logline: A concise summary of the film’s plot (1-2 pages) and a catchy one-liner that hooks buyers and audiences.
Press Kit (EPK): Includes director and cast bios, high-quality stills, posters, production notes, and behind-the-scenes content.
Key Art and Posters: Professionally designed posters and artwork that capture the film’s essence and target audience.
Social Media Content: Social media presence (if any) or suggested content that can aid distributors’ marketing campaigns.
3. Technical Specifications
Screening Formats: Availability in DCP, HD, or other required formats for theatrical and digital distribution.
Subtitles: English subtitles (if needed) and other major language options if already prepared.
Closed Captions: Necessary for many platforms and territories.
4. Distribution Strategy and Target Markets
Target Audience Profile: Age, demographic, genre preferences, and other characteristics of the intended audience.
Comparable Titles: Performance of similar films that provide insight into market demand and audience preferences.
Territory-Specific Appeal: Any cultural or thematic elements that make the film appealing to specific territories or regions.
5. Festival and Award History
Festival Screenings: Information on prestigious festivals where the film has screened, which can increase its market value and appeal.
Awards and Recognitions: Any awards or nominations that highlight the film’s quality and potential.
6. Sales and Distribution Materials
Sales Sheet: A one-pager with all essential information, including cast, genre, runtime, target demographics, and selling points.
Distribution Rights Availability: Detailed breakdown of territories, platforms, and rights available for sale (e.g., theatrical, VOD, SVOD, TV).
Box Office or Streaming Data (if available): For films with prior releases, performance data that demonstrates the film’s commercial viability.
7. Financial Information and Revenue Projections
Revenue Model: An overview of potential revenue streams (theatrical, streaming, DVD, TV, etc.) and projected returns.
Recoupment Structure: Information on how revenue will be divided among stakeholders, useful for potential distributors.
Comparable Financials: Box office, digital, and ancillary revenue data from similar films to help set buyer expectations.
8. Legal Documentation
Chain of Title: Proof of ownership rights for the story, script, and any intellectual property used in the film.
Distribution Contracts: Copies of existing distribution agreements or partnerships that clarify available territories and platforms.
Clearances: Rights clearances for music, images, or any other content requiring third-party permissions.
9. Insurance and Completion Bond (if applicable)
E&O Insurance: Errors and Omissions insurance, protecting distributors from legal claims related to the film’s content.
Completion Bond: Assurance for distributors that the film is fully complete and ready for market.
10. Publicity and Reviews
Press Reviews: Positive coverage from reputable sources, particularly from festivals or industry publications.
Audience Reception: If available, audience scores, testimonials, or ratings from preview screenings.
Social Media and Influencer Engagement: Evidence of online interest or influencer support that could aid in promotional efforts.
Having these elements prepared can maximize the film’s appeal to distributors, making it easier to secure deals that align with the film’s financial and marketing objectives. These materials also demonstrate professionalism and commitment, providing confidence that the film is well-positioned for commercial success.