Distribution

Distribution - What is it?

-What part of the supply chain is distribution?
It is the third part of the supply chain

-What is distribution often referred to as?
It is referred to as invisible art

-What does 'vertical integration' mean when discussing distribution?
This is when the production company has the ownership of the means of production, distribution and exhibition of the film by the same company, because of this they receive all of the profit.
-Why isn't 'vertical integration' so common in the independent sector?
In the independent film sector, vertical integration does not operate so commonly. Producers tend not to have long-term economic links with distributors, who likewise have no formal connections with exhibitors.
-What three stages are involved in the independent sector?
licensing, marketing and logistics.

-What is licencing?
Licensing is the process by which a distributor acquires the legal right to exploit a film. In distribution, licensing itself can take place on two levels.
-What are the two levels of licencing?
International distribution and local distribution

-What is the advantage of being a major US studio?

-What three different types of rights can you acquire on a local level?

-What are royalties?

-What is the most effective way to increase interest in a film?

-How long does it take for a film to reach 'free to air' TV?

What are the two key questions surrounding the marketing of a film?

What day are films typically released on?

What will a distributor look at before releasing a film on a Friday?

What is a 'light' week in terms of distribution?

What does it mean to 'position' a film distinctively?

Why has this become increasingly difficult in the UK?

What are P&A?

How much can P&A cost?

Typically how many prints will a 'specialised' film have?

How many will mainstream films have?

What is a key factor in developing the profile of a film?

How else can awareness of a film be raised?

Why is distribution in the UK seen as risky?

Why are companies looking towards viral marketing?

What are the benefits of a 'talent visit'

In the pre digital film age what was a distributor responsible for?

How much does a 35mm print typically cost?

How many reals is a typical feature print?

Why do 35mm prints get damaged?

Where are prints stored?

How long did a theatrical release used to last?

When did digital distribution begin in the UK?

Name two advantages of digital distribution

Which countries adopted digital distribution early and why?

How many screens were digital in 2005 and how many are now (you'll need to google this)

Why has digital distribution radically altered the operating model of distributors?

What has happened to the typical release period for a film?

What is a loss leader (google it) and why are companies using the Cinema as a potential loss leader?

British film companies

Warp X- Warp Films produced Kill List with Bill Wheatley directing it. They're a British film production company, sister to Warp Films bases in Sheffield, UK with further offices in Nottingham and London. The company was founded in 2005 and produces feature films with budgets usually between £400k and £800k. Their intent was to add energy and vitality to the British film industry.



Studio Canal- They are a French based company, but were the most prominent Uk distributors in the early 21st century when they distributed Kill List. They are a French based distribution company. They own the third largest film library in the world.



Film Yorkshire- In 2000, nine different regional screen agencies, one in each English region, to deliver support to film making. Co production with other companies.



Film 4- They're a British, digital, television channel available in the UK. They are responsible for a large number of films made in the UK. Co produced Kill List with other companies.



UK Film Council- Set up in 2000 to promote the UK film industry. It is funded by many different sources including things like the national lottery. Their aim was to make a competitive, vibrant and successful British film industry.



Rook Films- A PLC founded in 2010



Optimum releasing- A film distributing company based in UK and Ireland. They release many films including foreign films.



IFC Midnight- An American distribution company based in New York. They distribute independent films and documentaries.

Village Roadshow- An Australian company with interests in cinema, theme parks, film production and distribution.

Ratpac-Dune entertainment- An American motion pictures financing company.

Warner Bros- An American entertainment company that produces television and music entertainment. It is one of the major production companies. It's base is in Burbank, California

DNA Films-

Representation of Class and Status

Upper Class: 

Breaking Bad- Elliot and Gretchen are a multi millionaire couple that play the role of being Walters friends, however seem to be constantly looking down on Walter as they are much wealthier. They meet the stereotype of judgemental, well educated upper class people. They also offer Walter money for his cancer treatment which is a countertype as wealthy people are usually reluctant to give away money but these aren't.

Downton Abbey- The Crawley family are portrayed as a well educated, wealthy and influential people. This is also shown by their number of servants. They meet the stereotype of upper class people being well spoken as they enunciate their words clearly and use a wide range of vocabulary. 

Middle Class:  

Breaking Bad- The White family are a working class family who meet the stereotype of lower class people being hard working towards making money and this shows as the parents work very hard to make their money.

Waterloo Road- They're clearly middle class as they work hard for their money and are well committed to their job.

 

Lower Class:

 

Misfits- As the TV drama is about young offenders, and it is aimed at teenagers, it will interest this age group as they can relate to the use of language and behaviour.