How to Distribute a Short Film

For directors and filmmakers, crafting and editing a short film can be just as challenging as mounting a bigger production. While short films cost less to produce, the marketplace to distribute them in theaters and on DVD is somewhat limited in comparison to feature-length movies. If you have completed a short film or have thought about doing one, here is how to get your film seen after the final scene is edited.

Difficulty:

Moderately Challenging

Instructions

1. Send a DVD to film festivals. Check out lists from your local film school, your favorite film journal or directory, or browse the Internet. Most film festivals are receptive to short films and even offer separate awards for best short film. Many major distributors attend film festivals, so this is a good way to get your film seen by movers and shakers without knocking on office doors.

2. Contact film distributors directly. Small, independent distributors are more receptive to short films and may suggest options for releasing it on DVD or in theaters in conjunction with other films or as part of a collection. Always call larger distributors as well, unless they explicitly state that they don't look at short films.

3. Hire a translator (or get a friend to help you) and write foreign language markets. Many countries are eager to distribute American films, even short films, on their shores. Sometimes the film may need to be dubbed or fit with sub-titles, but because so many foreign viewers are familiar with English, this won't always be necessary.

4. Approach film reviewers. Even if your film has been shown just a few times in public, journalists, podcasters and bloggers will be happy to write about it or interview you. The more people who know about you and your film, the more likely a distributor will be to carry it.

5. Go back to school. The college circuit works well if you have age-appropriate subject matter in your film. What's popular on one campus eventually takes hold on another, so don't discount this option.

6. Post snippets of your short film on MySpace, YouTube or your own blog to help distribute it. You will gain fans and maybe even attract the interest of a distributor or major movie company.

Resources

• Los Angeles Short Film Fest