Are you tired of unanswered emails from big shot executives? Or perhaps you don’t even know how to get in contact with ANY of them? In today’s media landscape, you don’t need an acquisition from a fancy broadcaster or film distributor to bring attention to your content. Media is evolving FAST and power channels are shifting. We are living in the best era for independent content makers.
The internet gives you direct access to your audience, making you the front seat driver to your success. But it’s not easy. To get your film to a large audience you will need knowledge, strategy, creativity, resources and A LOT of drive. So drink up some espressos and buckle up!
THE IMPORTANCE OF MARKETING
You might have spent your life savings, acquired credit card debt, and secured bank loans to piece together your latest masterpiece. Perhaps your film is going to shake the world at its core. REALITY CHECK: No one cares…yet! There will be no earthquakes until your film has been heard.
Most Theatrical Hollywood films spend AT LEAST 30% of their budgets on marketing. At this point you might be out of cash, and unable to afford outsourcing to a 3rd party marketing and PR company. Here are 8 industry secrets to getting your film or TV show seen!
Stage 1
1. START NOW!
Build awareness around your content. Create social media accounts as soon as possible. A lot of big budget Hollywood films begin marketing one year before a film is distributed.
2. RESEARCH, RESEARCH, RESEARCH!
The more specific your target audience and market is, the clearer your path to engage them. Here is what you need to find out:
3. Go to your Audience
4. Create Shareable Content
a) Not only does your film need to be captivating, but so does your marketing strategy!Engage your audience with content that elicits an emotional reaction, such as laughs, tears and educational insight. The more moving it is, the more people will share!
i.e.
- Behind the scenes photos and footage
- Engaging quotes and notes.
** don’t forget tho hire a graphic designer for your posters and Instagram illustrations. Pull in some favors if you can’t afford it! The quality of your marketing will give people an idea of the production value of your film.
Step 2
Now you’ve completed your film and have secured a distribution platform (our article on how to get a distribution deal is coming soon!). It’s time to take promotions to the MAX! Marketing an indie film takes on a life of its own. You’ll need to put just as much effort into the launch as you did to make the film! Up to 50% of a film’s revenue is made in its first week. This number varies for TV, which allows you to grow your audience over time. But an epic launch won’t hurt nobody!
Be creative with your marketing strategy. Create an immersive experience that your audience takes away and lives on beyond your film!
5. Create a Press kit
Send it to journalists and key influencers who communicate with your target audience. (our article on how make a press kit coming soon!)
6. Create exceptional content to market your Film & TV show
A movie trailer is a marketing tool that encourages people to watch your film. (check out more of OVG’s services HERE )
b) Viral Content
I.e. Entourage partnered with cadillac to create additional content to promote the film.
i.e. for Tom Hardy’s 2015 film ‘Legend,’ the production company hosted exhibits to engage viewers in a new way!
7. Repeat steps 3-6 consistently
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