How can you navigate film festival submissions and distribution deals?

1 Know your film

Before you start applying to festivals, you need to have a clear idea of what your film is about, who it is for, and what it offers. You should be able to summarize your film in a logline, a synopsis, and a trailer that capture its genre, tone, style, and theme. You should also identify your target audience, your unique selling points, and your artistic vision. Knowing your film will help you craft a compelling and consistent marketing package that showcases your strengths and appeals to festival programmers and distributors.

2 Research the festivals

There are thousands of film festivals around the world, each with its own criteria, deadlines, fees, and preferences. You can't apply to them all, so you need to do some research and narrow down your options. You can use online databases, directories, and platforms like FilmFreeway, Withoutabox, or Festhome to find festivals that match your film's genre, length, format, and eligibility. You should also look at the festival's history, reputation, awards, audience, and industry connections. You want to choose festivals that align with your goals, whether they are to gain exposure, feedback, networking, or distribution opportunities.

3 Prepare your materials

Once you have a list of festivals that you want to apply to, you need to prepare your submission materials. These may vary depending on the festival, but generally include your film file, your marketing package, and your application form. Your film file should be in the highest quality possible, with subtitles if needed, and formatted according to the festival's specifications. Your marketing package should include your logline, synopsis, trailer, poster, stills, press kit, and any other relevant information or materials that showcase your film. Your application form should be filled out carefully and accurately, with all the required information and documents.

4 Follow up and pitch

After you submit your film to festivals, you should follow up with them and track the status of your application. You can use online platforms or spreadsheets to keep track of your submissions, confirmations, rejections, and selections. You should also be ready to pitch your film to festival programmers and distributors if you get selected or invited. You should have a short and engaging pitch that highlights your film's story, audience, and potential. You should also have a clear idea of what you want from a distribution deal, such as the rights, the terms, and the revenue. You should be prepared to negotiate and communicate effectively with potential partners.

5 Be flexible and realistic

Finally, you should be flexible and realistic about your expectations and outcomes. Film festival submissions and distribution deals are not guaranteed, and they depend on many factors beyond your control. You may face rejection, competition, and disappointment along the way. You may also have to adapt and compromise your vision or goals to fit the market or the platform. You should be open to feedback, criticism, and opportunities, but also stay true to yourself and your film. You should also celebrate your achievements, no matter how big or small, and keep learning and improving your craft.