The LA Times and NY Times have each run their requisite articles on DIY Distribution. Now Screen International is speaking up on the need to bring the films to the audiences (vs. bringing audiences to the films).
The trick now is to mobilise audiences, market and increasingly distribute to the places they want to watch the film. And, of course, set the budget accordingly.
But it’s also vital to ignore the orthodox – surely the mission of independent film. It is, for example, snobbish and self-defeating to suggest that no one outside an educated elite wants film that challenges. If that’s true, then why make films? Music and books don’t seem to share that view. And the big film franchises from Batman to Bond have done their very best to apply as much shade as possible.
The indie film-maker needs to take on the fight. This is the time for a little less “we’re doomed” and a little more “yes we can”.
I am really curious if we will see this “yes we can” spirit invade Sundance this year, or will filmmakers keep believing in angels and demons.
