Feature projection totals

[Steve Gibby]

In checking a TI press release from the ShoWest Expo today in Las Vegas, I found these tidbits that should interest this forum:

"...the 18 top-grossing films of 2006 were released in digital format..."

and

"...more than 100 films were released in digital format last year..."

It's some food for thought. Here's a link to the entire press release:

http://digitalproducer.digitalmedianet.com/articles/viewarticle.jsp?id=113528

[Joel Kaye]

Gibby,

What do you see that might be of interest to indie content producers regarding new distribution models, trends, and/or self distribution/marketing.

I've spoken to distributors recently who were talking about the plummeting value of indie content vs. what filmmakers were expecting. Also they were fearing for their own ability to make money. The sense was that the market is truly changing right before their eyes pretty quickly.

edit- I just noticed you were reading a press release and aren't actually at Showest. Oh well - if you or anyone has thoughts on the above note I'd love to hear it.

[Steve Gibby]

Joelnet,

Well, those are very good questions!

It's a dynamic marketplace - nothing is static. Many of the traditional distribution models are changing. I think wisdom dictates that when it’s a production you own the copyright to, that you brainstorm right from the outset every possible distribution channel that is available to you. Right from the start, weed out the ones that are not feasible, not cost-effective, or are long shots. Then concentrate on the remaining ones on your list and leverage every way to create revenue streams from them. As an indie producer you absolutely need to be equal parts manager, journalist, artist, and technician. You need to change those hats constantly throughout every day.

Don't stubbornly take a stance of "I'm an indie, and that's it". Mine the many opportunities for contract production work for others - it helps keep the lights on while you work toward your indie dreams. Work in every niche of the convergent motion media industry you can. Spread your skill sets and you will probably fatten your bank account.

I'd pay special attention to emerging ancillary revenue streams, like IPTV, web download, BluRay/HD-DVD special interest production, and a multitude of others. If you can produce an indie project and leverage it through several modes and technologies of delivery/marketing, then you will have maximized its' revenue generating potential.

If you're not busy, don't turn up your nose at any project that comes your way - as long as it doesn't compromise your principles. RED One will be a very versatile camera system, capable of a wide range of cine-style and EFP style productions. If you spread your skill sets to effectively match RED One, then you should be able to generate a lot of revenue with it.

Hope this helps...

[Joel Kaye]

As an indie producer you absolutely need to be equal parts manager, journalist, artist, and technician. You need to change those hats constantly throughout every day.

Don't stubbornly take a stance of "I'm an indie, and that's it".


Great thoughts. I appreciate you taking the time to post them. I'm onboard with all those ideas. I still have a lot of education in front of me on many things - but I think your attitude nails it.