RESEARCH: Distribution

What is distribution?

Release of film and sustaining film in the market place, it is the delivery of a media product such as audio and video.

In the UK

Film distribution has its producers in its own rights; the success of a film is determined by how it is distributed as a DVD. And also how it is released in cinemas as well as distribution of trailers via the internet and adverts on TV.

In the USA

Local distribution is within the same country and this often happens in the USA, this is because in the USA they have their own distributors in each city and this leads to products being sold from one territory to another in order to make it a success.

Methods of distribution

Methods of distribution are important as these make or break a film; some of the methods are as follows: Social media, TV adverts, Radio adverts, Trailers, posters, magazines/ newspapers and word of mouth.

Social media

This includes websites such as Facebook, twitter and youtube where products can be put out to a huge target market and gain a lot of views/ recognition. This advertising is free and very effective as it has the ability to go viral and make the trailer well known and therefore the film would become a success.

TV/ Radio adverts

This can advertise up to 9 months before the film is released in order to gain a build up to the film. Also, this is distributed to a larger audience and enforces excitement towards the product.

Trailers

This is the main way that films are distributed as the trailer is a ‘tease’ to the actual product. It includes a lot of the story line but leaves enigma to hook the audience in and is made to capture the audience’s attention and this is distributed to make the film popular.

Posters

This is a still image from the film made to capture the audience’s attention and make an impact so that they wish to watch the product. There is limited text on a poster as the image is the main focus this is so that they know the name of the film but not much else.

Magazines/news-papers

This includes images and text about a film, it often gives reviews and this is a good way of distributing as it gives the public a clear idea as to whether or not they would enjoy the film. However sometimes these can give too much information away about the film itself or leave some enigma, so it will be easy for the public to decide whether or not this film is for them.

Word of mouth

Recommendation of a film via family or friends is always a good idea as to whether or not you will enjoy the film. So recognition of a film can get around via one another and can help in making the film popular, this is because people reply on others opinions too help them decide.