How do you succeed in foreign film markets?

1 Know your target markets

Before you start developing your film project, you need to do some research on the potential markets you want to enter. You should consider factors such as the size and growth of the film industry, the preferences and tastes of the audience, the distribution channels and platforms, the regulations and censorship, and the cultural and social context. By knowing your target markets, you can tailor your film to fit their expectations and needs, as well as avoid any pitfalls or controversies that might harm your reputation or revenue.

2 Choose a universal theme

One of the most important elements of a successful film is the theme, or the central message or idea that the film conveys. A theme can help you connect with your audience on an emotional and intellectual level, regardless of their background or location. To succeed in foreign markets, you should choose a theme that is universal, meaning that it can appeal to a wide range of people and cultures. Some examples of universal themes are love, friendship, family, identity, justice, freedom, survival, and courage. A universal theme can also help you overcome language barriers, as it can be expressed through visual storytelling and non-verbal cues.

3 Adapt your genre and style

Another way to make your film more appealing to foreign markets is to adapt your genre and style to suit their preferences and conventions. Genre refers to the category or type of film, such as comedy, drama, horror, action, or romance. Style refers to the way the film is made, such as the cinematography, editing, sound, music, or special effects. Different markets may have different expectations and norms for different genres and styles, so you should be aware of them and adjust accordingly. For example, some markets may prefer more realistic and subtle films, while others may favor more exaggerated and spectacular ones. Some markets may have a higher tolerance for violence or nudity, while others may have stricter rules or sensitivities.

4 Collaborate with local partners

A great way to increase your chances of success in foreign markets is to collaborate with local partners who can help you with the production and distribution of your film. Local partners can include co-producers, co-financiers, co-writers, actors, crew members, consultants, distributors, or promoters. By working with local partners, you can benefit from their expertise, network, resources, and credibility. You can also gain access to incentives, subsidies, or tax breaks that some countries offer to foreign filmmakers. Moreover, you can create a more authentic and diverse film that reflects the culture and values of your target markets.

5 Promote your film effectively

Finally, you need to promote your film effectively to reach and engage your audience in foreign markets. You should develop a marketing strategy that considers the best channels, platforms, and methods to showcase your film and generate buzz. You should also create a compelling trailer, poster, and synopsis that highlight the unique selling points and benefits of your film. Additionally, you should consider localizing your film title, subtitles, dubbing, or marketing materials to make them more appealing and accessible to your audience. You should also leverage social media, influencers, festivals, awards, or word-of-mouth to create awareness and interest in your film.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?