Attention, Filmmakers: 6 Tips for Distributing Your Indie Film

Author: GE

Sep. 01, 2025

Attention, Filmmakers: 6 Tips for Distributing Your Indie Film

4. Shorts have an audience too.

While short films may not have the same distribution opportunities as feature films, short filmmakers shouldn’t feel discouraged, as they are still invaluable in developing a filmmaker’s name and gaining an audience through limited release. The panelists agreed that shorts don’t have the same distribution life as feature films, and that their distribution is usually not to monetary ends. But there are distribution options for shorts.

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Bowers, who also writes a column for Vice titled “I’m Short, Not Stupid,” which brings attention to new short films, pointed out that 

“it’s always possible to sell rights to anything. Beyond that, you can use outlets like YouTube, Vimeo or Fandor to try and generate press around it. Unfortunately, in our culture, shorts are just calling cards, but you should always try to generate press around and release it that way.”

How do film distributors determine the best release date for a movie?

Some genres tend to perform better in certain seasons than others. For example, horror movies usually do well in October, around Halloween, while family-friendly movies are popular during the holidays. Comedy and action movies can appeal to a wide range of audiences throughout the year, but they may face more competition from other blockbusters. Film distributors try to match the genre of their movie with the season that suits it best, and avoid releasing it in a crowded or mismatched period.

Another factor that film distributors consider is the target audience and demographics of their movie. They try to identify who is most likely to watch their movie, and when they are most available to go to the cinema. For example, movies aimed at teenagers and young adults may benefit from releasing during the summer or spring break, when they have more free time and disposable income. Movies aimed at older adults or niche markets may opt for a limited or platform release, where they start in a few select theaters and expand gradually, depending on the word-of-mouth and reviews.

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The production and marketing budget of a movie also influences its release date. Film distributors have to balance the cost of making and promoting a movie with the potential revenue and profit. A movie with a high production budget may need a wide release and a strong marketing campaign to recoup its investment, while a movie with a low production budget may rely more on positive buzz and critical acclaim to attract viewers. Film distributors also have to consider the opportunity cost of releasing a movie at a certain date, and whether they can earn more by delaying or advancing it.

Film distributors who want to pursue awards and festivals for their movie have to plan their release date accordingly. Most major awards, such as the Oscars, have eligibility criteria that require a movie to be released in a certain window of time, usually between October and December. Film festivals, such as Cannes, Sundance, and Toronto, can also provide a platform for a movie to gain exposure and recognition, but they may have exclusivity rules that prevent a movie from being released elsewhere before or during the festival. Film distributors have to weigh the benefits and risks of releasing a movie for awards and festivals, and how it will affect its commercial prospects.

Finally, film distributors have to monitor the competition and trends in the market. They have to be aware of what other movies are releasing around the same time as their movie, and how they will affect its demand and supply. They have to avoid direct competition with movies that have similar genres, themes, or target audiences, and seek out dates that offer less or complementary competition. They also have to adapt to changing trends in the market, such as the rise of streaming services, the impact of the pandemic, and the preferences of the consumers. Film distributors have to be flexible and strategic in choosing their release date, and be ready to adjust it if necessary.

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