On of the major challenges for black independent filmmakers are distribution channels. Many films catering to a black audience will be viewed as too “niche” for theater distribution by large distributors. Blockbuster is now a defunct company, so I can no longer rent black themed movies as easily as I could in the past. You can press your movie to DVD, however you have to deal with fulfillment companies or a DVD on Demand Company.
I have been looking for a solution to this issue recently. I released my documentary, The Bay on DVD. I used a DVD on Demand Company. I was pleased with the service, however I think I will go in another direction for my next film “Coon City”.
The direction I will be moving in is to use a video player called Dynamo. Dynamo is similar to most video players, however it has a payment option. The benefits of using Dynamo to producers are: ability to set price, time of access to view; and the ability to embed on any website. Here is an example of a movie using the Dynamo viewer
I am excited that technology is empowering us by giving us options to distribute our work. Independent filmmakers need to take a page from the music artists who have leveraged of every aspect of digital media to control and sell their music.
If you are an independent filmmaker and you think the festival circuit or a Hollywood executive will pluck you out of obscurity, you are delusional. Hollywood picks people, and it has very little to do with talent. Independent filmmakers have to be innovative and creative in all areas of film making or we will stay stuck on the vine.
Now go make a movie!
Now go make a movie!
the Solution is already here. It is called LANTAWOOD
ReplyDeleteI hope I am not too late. My name is Cecil Henry and I am working with a new venture, www.urbanproductgroup.com and our marketing plan is designed to create distribution for Independent Black Film Makers. We are interested in developing a relationship with film makers and their organization in building out this needed solution. 50% of all proceeds go back to the film maker and their organization. If you are interested in helping us, please contact me at chenry@urbanproductgroup.com or 917 202 4098.
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