It is every filmmaker’s dream to have the widest release possible and make lots of monies from their film, but before you go shooting your next flick here are a few things you should definitely consider.
When you go out to make a film you have an audience in mind, this is the person who you should always consider when designing your film. As yourself this questions
The best way most studios and exhibitors judge how good a film was is by offering exit polls. This is a quick questionnaire offered to the audience to give feedback and rate the film which normally would be immediately after a screening when the memory is still fresh.
It’s wise to do this very early with test screenings so you are well aware of the audience expectations and what you can improve on before the full release.
Think of how you want to release your film, Do you think the film is big enough to warrant a big release? Is it a straight to VOD release? You have to understand that the film distributor puts up their own money for promotion and advertising so they are very careful on the type of film they pick and with their experience they are able to judge on the audience appeal and adjust their budgets accordingly.
Exhibitors, on the other hand, have screens that they need to pack with audiences. Most cinemas have at least two screens in every location some as many as eight. If a film is popular with the audience the more screens it will be available on hence more customers get to watch it. They will be very curious about the staying power of the film so they will watch the ticket sales with a keen eye.
VOD companies are also interested in acquiring a film they think will add value to their customers on their platforms so make sure your film is special. The more the film was in demand in the cinemas the more it will be more valuable to VOD companies as those that didn’t catch it on the theatrical window can watch it at home.
Film distributors have insights on the cinema-going trends and are aware of the best timing for a release so trust them with this knowledge. Every market or region is specific and people go to cinemas for different reasons. Boxing day might be a popular night for cinema-goers in the UK but might be a bad date in Kenya where everyone travels upcountry for the holidays. Since we are a Hollywood dominated market lets look at the trends:
Looking at the above trends it’s clear that timing your release is key to the success of your film but above all treat every cinema release like an event as people love dressing up for one.
Good luck!
wordpress theme by initheme.com