As an independent filmmaker, one of your ultimate goals is to get your film not only produced—but seen. Whether you’ve created a short, feature, or a series, distribution is essential if you want to share your story with a wider audience. Navigating Christian film festivals can be a powerful way to get your faith-based film noticed and picked up for distribution. Here are six essential tips to help you make the most of these opportunities:
- Identify the film festivals that will be a good fit for your film. You can utilize the Film Fest Finder to help you identify festivals, pitch-a-thons, and markets where your film will resonate most.
- FilmFreeway is a great platform for submitting to film festivals. Research festivals that highlight faith-based films or have a proven track record of connecting filmmakers to distributors.
- Create a pitch deck that clearly communicates your film’s story, audience, and unique selling points. Your trailer should be emotionally and visually engaging. And don’t forget to practice your verbal pitch until it’s natural and confident.
- Create a well-designed one-sheet, business cards, and promotional postcards. These materials make it easy for potential partners and distributors to remember and reach out to you. A QR code linking to your trailer or website can also be helpful.
- Before attending festivals, create a list of distribution companies you’d like to work with. Learn about the types of films they typically represent and tailor your approach accordingly. You can find helpful resources on the Distribution page.
- Building relationships is just as important as screening your film. Connect with fellow filmmakers, festival organizers, and distributors. The Christian film community is close-knit and collaborative. Many filmmakers end up working together on future projects, and relationships often open doors to distribution opportunities.
Leave a Reply