Not everyone is going to make it.

Too harsh? Wake up.

When I was a kid, being a filmmaker was a fairy dream. We imagined ourselves doing incredible things, just jumping in the wild and creating something… “The world is going to love.” Must love.

Well, the rules of the game have changed, and now you must be willing to fight into these hunger games. Doing something you love, having passion for it and “wanting it so much” is not enough anymore.

“I’m a filmmaker, marketing is not my job.” as a justification to create a film and wait for the odds to blow in your favor always brings a (sad) smile to my face, because the delusion is really rooted in that statement.

It doesn’t matter what your job is. If you want your film to succeed, and you don’t have 1M to back it up, you need to roll your sleeves. Do the hard work.

It’s like me cooking a great dish for a specific person, and not brining it to their table because “I’m a cook, being a waiter is not my job.”

Alright… but they are never going to know your dish even exists. Or you.

The problem is the mindset.

“It’s not my job” it’s only a way to label the job you don’t like doing. All jobs have a downside, a tedious part of the process. If you don’t have a big company behind you, you are the responsible not only for producing that film, but for making sure it gets to the screens. Otherwise, what’s the point?

The landscape of independent film distribution has undergone seismic shifts, particularly with the sharp decline of minimum guarantees (MGs) from distributors. This reality is harsh, but it also opens new avenues for creative and savvy filmmakers. Here’s how to navigate this chaotic industry and seize opportunities amidst the turmoil.

Diversifying Revenue Streams

Forget relying solely on distribution deals to secure your financial future. It’s time to diversify your revenue streams:

• Merchandise Sales/Features/Making off content/Premium material: Come up with all the possible monetization systems you can think of.
• Sponsorships: Partner with brands for mutual promotion.
• Strategic Partnerships: Collaborate with other creators and platforms to share resources and audiences.

These additional income sources can help offset the reduced financial security previously provided by MGs.

Collaboration and Co-productions

Forming alliances with streaming platforms, production companies, and other filmmakers can provide critical financial support and enhance distribution opportunities. Co-productions can share the financial burden and increase the film’s market reach by pooling resources and expertise.

Collaborative efforts can also improve a film’s visibility, making it more attractive to distributors who might be hesitant to offer large MGs upfront.

Advocacy and Industry Support

Filmmaker associations and industry stakeholders play a crucial role in advocating for fair compensation and support for independent filmmakers. By lobbying distributors and policymakers, these groups can work towards better investment in minimum guarantees, ensuring that filmmakers receive fair compensation for their work.

Bifurcating Distribution Rights

A practical approach to dealing with the declining MGs is to bifurcate distribution rights. Instead of seeking perpetual rights agreements, filmmakers can sell distribution rights to streaming platforms for fixed periods (e.g., 18 months). This strategy allows filmmakers to retain the ability to re-license their films to other platforms and territories after the initial period, thereby maximizing revenue opportunities post-release.

Valuing Minimum Guarantees

When negotiating MGs, it’s crucial to assess the potential success and marketability of the film. Factors to consider include:

• Script and Story Quality: The originality and audience appeal of the film.
• Notable Talent: The involvement of well-known actors, directors, or producers.
• Genre and Market Trends: The current demand for the film’s genre and how it fits into market trends.
• Sales Projections: Forecasts provided by sales agents based on territorial distribution and comparisons with similar films.

Understanding these elements can help filmmakers negotiate better terms and secure more favorable MGs.

Negotiating Favorable Terms

Clear and favorable contractual terms are essential when negotiating MGs. This includes:

• Payment Schedules: Establishing clear timelines for payments.
• Recoupment Terms: Understanding how and when the distributor will recoup their investment.
• Rights Reversion Clauses: Ensuring that rights revert to the filmmaker if certain conditions are not met.

Legal guidance from experienced entertainment lawyers can help filmmakers secure advantageous deals and protect their interests.

Digital Self-Distribution

Some independent filmmakers opt for self-distribution on digital platforms like Vimeo On Demand or YouTube. While this route offers greater creative control, it also requires significant effort in marketing and audience engagement. Successful self-distribution can attract attention from distributors, potentially leading to acquisitions or MGs if the film gains a substantial following.

Film Festivals

Film festivals remain a vital platform for independent films to gain recognition and secure distribution deals. Success at prominent festivals such as Sundance, Cannes, and Toronto International Film Festival can significantly enhance a film’s chances of securing acquisitions and MGs.

Elevating Content Quality

In an industry crowded with aspiring filmmakers, producing high-quality content is more crucial than ever. The pool of filmmakers is overflowing, and standing out requires excellence. Here’s how to elevate your content:

• Invest in Quality: From scriptwriting to post-production, ensure every aspect of your film is top-notch.
• Hire Talented Professionals: Collaborate with skilled actors, directors, and crew members who can bring your vision to life.
• Emphasize Storytelling: A compelling and well-told story can set your film apart in a saturated market.
• Innovate and Experiment: Don’t be afraid to push boundaries and try new techniques to make your film unique.

In the competitive world of indie filmmaking, being the best isn’t just an option; it’s a necessity. Strive for excellence in every project, and let your work speak for itself.

The decline of minimum guarantees from distributors poses challenges but also offers opportunities for independent filmmakers to innovate and adapt. By diversifying revenue streams, forming strategic collaborations, advocating for fair compensation, exploring alternative distribution strategies, and focusing on high-quality content, filmmakers can navigate this evolving landscape and achieve success. The key lies in being proactive, flexible, and well-informed about the industry’s changing dynamics.

The Harsh Reality: Wake Up, Filmmakers!

Enough with the daydreaming about the good old days of fat MGs. They are dwindling, and it’s time to face the brutal truth. Filmmakers need to stop whining and start strategizing. Embrace the chaos, learn to navigate the new norms, and grab your share of the market. The industry doesn’t owe you a living—earn it through innovation, relentless networking, and smart business moves. The future belongs to those who adapt and fight for their vision.

We are determined to walk this journey with those creators who are willing to fight. Those are our team. Find resources, advise, industry news, motivation and guidance on our socials, website and email list.

To victory!

Mar Della Greca
Founder of TBM Marketing & TBM Horror