You’ve called “that’s a wrap” on production – now what? For independent filmmakers, finishing a movie is only half the journey. The real test comes in getting your film out into the world. Without proper preparation, even a brilliant indie film can struggle to find a distributor or platform. To help, we’ve compiled a producer’s checklist to get your indie movie distribution-ready. From polishing your final cut to assembling a marketing kit, these steps will boost your odds of landing a deal and getting your film seen.
Polish Your Final Cut and Formats
Before seeking a distribution deal, make sure your film itself is flawless. Host a test screening or get feedback from trusted peers to refine the final cut. Ensure picture and sound quality meet professional standards – invest time in color grading and sound mixing so your movie looks and sounds its best. Next, prepare the required formats for release. Most distributors will ask for a high-quality digital master file (such as a ProRes or DNxHD export) of your film. If a theatrical release is on the table, you may need a DCP (Digital Cinema Package) as well. Sorting out these technical deliverables now means you won’t be scrambling later when a distributor requests specific files.
Clear Rights and Prepare Deliverables
Nothing will scare off a distributor faster than unresolved legal issues. Ensure you have all your paperwork in order. This includes signed release forms from cast, crew, and locations, and properly licensed music or archival footage. If your soundtrack uses any popular songs, double-check that you’ve secured distribution rights (festival-only licenses won’t cover a commercial release). It’s also wise to obtain Errors & Omissions (E&O) insurance, which many distributors require to protect against legal claims down the road.
On the delivery side, assemble a deliverables package with everything a distributor might need. Common items include:
Subtitles & Closed Captions: Provide them in English and other major languages to broaden your film’s reach.
Transcripts & Cue Sheets: Time-coded scripts for dialogue and music to aid in dubbing and captioning.
High-Res Stills: A selection of high-quality still images (including behind-the-scenes shots) for marketing and press use.
Metadata: A document detailing your film’s cast, crew, runtime, genre, synopsis, and other key info.
Having these assets ready shows distributors you’re organized and can deliver immediately once a deal is made.
Prepare Marketing and Promo Materials
Think like a distributor and create a toolkit that helps sell your film. Start with a gripping trailer – often the first thing any distributor (or viewer) will watch. Aim for 60-90 seconds that highlight your movie’s strongest moments without giving away all the twists. Next, design an eye-catching poster that conveys your film’s tone and genre at a glance. You’ll also need a punchy synopsis and logline that pitch the story in just a few sentences.
Don’t forget a press kit. A standard press kit includes the poster, a synopsis, cast & crew info, and a set of production stills. You might also add a director’s statement, any festival laurels or awards, and notable press quotes if available. These materials are crucial when pitching to distributors – and later, they’ll be used in marketing your film to audiences. The more polished your promotional assets, the more likely a distributor will say “yes” to your movie.
Plan Your Festival and Release Strategy
With your film and promo materials in hand, it’s time to strategize your path to distribution. One proven route for indie films is the film festival circuit. Research festivals that fit your film’s genre and target audience, and submit to those key events – especially ones known for industry attendance. A premiere at a reputable festival can generate buzz and even lead to distribution offers on the spot.
If the festival route isn’t in the cards, consider other avenues. You might work with a sales agent who can pitch your film to distributors and streaming platforms, leveraging their industry contacts. Alternatively, identify distributors or VOD platforms that specialize in films like yours and approach them directly with a concise pitch. Also, make the most of networking: attend film markets and industry events, connect with filmmakers who have distribution deals, and seek advice or introductions. The goal is to get your movie in front of the right decision-makers, whether via festivals, markets, or direct outreach.
Conclusion: The journey to distribution can be challenging, but preparation is your best ally. By checking off this list – a polished final cut, full legal clearances, a package of deliverables, strong marketing materials, and a smart strategy – you’ll greatly improve your film’s chances of securing a distribution deal. The more prepared you are behind the scenes, the smoother your journey will be to see your indie movie on screen.
At Teevra Studios, we know what it takes to bring a film to market. Whether you need a stunning trailer, eye-catching promotional content, or post-production enhancements using AI, our team is ready to help. Reach out to Teevra and let’s make sure your film is truly distribution-ready.
