Methods of Film Distribution

Film distribution is the process in which film distributors have to carry out so that they can make films available for viewing by audiences. Film distributors can make films available for viewing in many different ways. These include:

STANDARD RELEASE

During the standard release of a film, there are two 'release windows'. These are the 'theatrical window' and the 'video window'. Firstly, during a standard release, the film is made available to exhibit in cinemas and this is when the film is at the 'theatrical window', the period of time in which films are available to be viewed in theatres. Then, after a time period of around 16 and a half weeks (around 4 and a half months) the film is then made available on Blu-ray and DVD. This is when the film reaches its 'video window'. After a number of months it is then released to PayTV services and then is aired on free-to-view TV. Many films are distributed in this way as it is the most efficient way of making the most money out of the film.

SIMULTANEOUS RELEASE

'In Your Eyes': released simultaneously

A simultaneous release is where a film is distributed through many different media at the same time (Cinema, TV, DVD, etc.) This can prove to be an advantage for consumers as it means that they can choose which media platform suits them and this makes the film more accessible. This also is an advantage for the production companies as they only have to create one marketing campaign. However, box office figures are affected when a simultaneous release is carried out as the number of people going to the cinema to watch the film will be reduced due to the availability of the film through other media platforms. The most recent film to be distributed in this experimental way (as of October 2015) is a paranormal romance film called 'In Your Eyes' which was released in 2014

American Pie: Band Camp
released straight-to-video

STRAIGHT-TO-VIDEO RELEASE

Hence the name, straight-to-video releases is where films are not released in cinemas and are distributed through Blu-ray and DVD straight away. This distribution method is perfect for independent film companies and short film makers as the video release market has become a lot more profitable recently.