Learn about the options, benefits, and challenges of online film distribution, and how to choose and use a platform that suits your goals, budget, and audience.

You’ll definitely want to read the fine print with many of these distribution companies (btw, Distribber is no longer in business as of 2019). As the article states, you may give up some rights and discover fees you didn’t expect. You’ll want to weigh the benefits of having them do the distribution for you, as this can be tedious and time consuming, vs. the fees they charge and no guarantees of the film being accepted.

Always good to have a loyal, respectful network. We as writers, film producers, should always be willing to help others in the industry. We are as strong as our weakest link.

Last updated on Jul 28, 2024

How can you distribute your film online?

You've made a film and you want to share it with the world. But how do you distribute your film online? What are the options, benefits, and challenges of online film distribution? In this article, you'll learn about some of the main ways to distribute your film online, and what you need to consider before choosing a platform, setting a price, and marketing your film.

1 Self-distribution platforms

One way to distribute your film online is to use a self-distribution platform, such as Vimeo On Demand, Gumroad, or VHX. These platforms allow you to upload your film, set your own price, and keep most of the revenue. You also have full control over your film's rights, design, and audience data. However, self-distribution platforms also require you to do all the work of promoting your film, handling customer service, and managing technical issues. You also need to pay a fee to use the platform, and compete with thousands of other films for attention.

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2 Aggregator platforms

Another way to distribute your film online is to use an aggregator platform, such as Distribber, Quiver, or Filmhub. These platforms act as intermediaries between you and online retailers, such as iTunes, Amazon, or Netflix. They handle the delivery, encoding, and metadata of your film, and collect the revenue from the retailers. You pay a flat fee to use the platform, and keep 100% of the revenue after the retailer's cut. However, aggregator platforms do not guarantee that your film will be accepted by the retailers, nor do they provide any marketing or creative support. You also have to give up some control over your film's rights, pricing, and availability.

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Dr. Sandi Eveleth

I help Healthcare Professionals, Coaches, & Course Creators navigate marketing & framework strategies to transform their communities | Notion Consultant | Digital Marketing Consultant | Empower Community Canvassador
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You’ll definitely want to read the fine print with many of these distribution companies (btw, Distribber is no longer in business as of 2019). As the article states, you may give up some rights and discover fees you didn’t expect. You’ll want to weigh the benefits of having them do the distribution for you, as this can be tedious and time consuming, vs. the fees they charge and no guarantees of the film being accepted.

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3 Hybrid platforms

A third way to distribute your film online is to use a hybrid platform, such as Seed&Spark, IndieFlix, or IndieRights. These platforms combine some of the features of self-distribution and aggregator platforms, such as offering you a direct-to-consumer option, as well as access to online retailers. They also provide some marketing and distribution services, such as crowdfunding, festivals, or educational screenings. You pay a percentage of your revenue to use the platform, and share some of the rights and decisions with the platform. However, hybrid platforms may have more selective criteria for accepting films, and may not offer the same level of customization or transparency as self-distribution platforms.

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wilfredo alicea

Music Producer at waffbeatz Productions. CEO of WBP Film , when it comes to entertainment there’s nothing I don’t know. Down to the production assistant.
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So it's all about the location from the coordinator as well as your production assistance that handle all aspects of the film or project

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4 Factors to consider

Before you choose a platform to distribute your film online, you need to consider several factors. What are your goals? Do you want to reach a wide audience, make money, build a fan base, or raise awareness for a cause? How much can you afford to spend on distribution? Who is your target audience and how can you reach them? What rights do you want to retain or license for your film? What is the genre, length, and quality of your film? By answering these questions, you can identify the best platform for your film.

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5 Tips for online distribution

When you decide to distribute your film online, there are some tips to maximize your chances of success. You should make sure your film meets the technical specifications and quality standards of the platform. Additionally, you should have a high-resolution poster, trailer, and stills ready. Writing a compelling synopsis, logline, and tagline for your film is also important. Furthermore, you should research the market and the competition to determine the best price for your film. Consider different pricing models such as pay-per-view, subscription, or donation. You should also create a marketing plan and a budget for your film. Using social media, email, blogs, podcasts, and press releases to spread the word about your film is essential. Building a website and a mailing list for your film is beneficial too. Partnering with influencers, bloggers, reviewers, and organizations that can help you reach your audience is recommended. Launching a pre-sale or a crowdfunding campaign can generate buzz and revenue for your film. Lastly, engaging with your audience by interacting with them and encouraging them to watch, rate, review, and share your film is key. Through these steps you can distribute your film online and achieve your goals.

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6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?

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Kimberly R. Morgan

Six Time Award Winning Executive Producer of Two Short Films, International Best Selling Author, “The Capo’s Prayer” Trilogy., Screenwriter.
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Always good to have a loyal, respectful network. We as writers, film producers, should always be willing to help others in the industry. We are as strong as our weakest link.

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Jamie Logie

Head of Creative & Digital
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Always pack practically before venturing into the labyrinth of upload. You cross many platforms and strategies. Firstly, create a high-quality trailer and promo materials to generate excitement and engagement. Confidently leverage popular streaming platforms and acknowledge trends. Don’t be modest with Netflix, Amazon Prime, Hulu, or YouTube to reach a wide audience. Additionally, occupy and engage social media platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter to create buzz and share behind-the-scenes content. Collaborating with influencers or bloggers in the film industry can further boost visibility. Finally, I would consider hosting virtual screenings or participating in film festivals to gain recognition and potential distribution deals.

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How can you distribute your film online?

1

2

3

4

5

6

1 Self-distribution platforms

2 Aggregator platforms

3 Hybrid platforms

4 Factors to consider

5 Tips for online distribution

6 Here’s what else to consider

Film Production

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How can you distribute your film online?

1

2

3

4

5

6

1 Self-distribution platforms

2 Aggregator platforms

3 Hybrid platforms

4 Factors to consider

5 Tips for online distribution

6 Here’s what else to consider

Film Production

Rate this article

Thanks for your feedback

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