Many discussions about independent film distribution options seem to center around just getting your films and content seen, the search for eyeballs online. This strategy is all well and good when you are building an online presence and particularly for those just getting started. But for some months now, we at FreshDV have been interested in getting a snapshot of current distribution options that reward filmmakers for their investment, practical options that can earn indies money now. So we sat down with two special guests that have a unique knowledge of this field, and had a frank and practical discussion about what profitable options exist now, and how to market your film. The following audio podcast is a discussion with Jerome Courshon and Scott Kirsner, and is moderated by Matt Jeppsen and Kendal Miller of FreshDV.
Jerome Courshon is an award-winning Producer/Writer, whose first movie was the critically acclaimed indie “God, Sex & Apple Pie,” ultimately released by Warner Bros. His journey was profiled in the Los Angeles Times and documented on iFilm.com. Having acquired enormous experience from playing “the game” of getting distribution for his own movie, he has since written articles and primers on distribution for MovieMaker Magazine, Indie Slate Magazine and Film Festival Today Magazine. In 2006, he created a groundbreaking seminar that assists producers & directors in achieving distribution for their own movies, and presents this around the country each year. The seminar is called “The Secrets to Distribution: Get Your Movie Distributed Now!” and the website address is: www.Distribution.LA
Scott Kirsner is a writer for Variety, edits the blog CinemaTech, and has recently written a new book, “Fans, Friends & Followers: Building an Audience and a Creative Career in the Digital Age.” He is also one of the key organizers of The Conversation, a gathering of entertainment industry innovators, the second edition of which comes this fall in New York.