International independent film distribution hits glacier

As I've been saying, the traditional market for indie films is dead, particularly for smaller films like the ones we make.

The Wall Street Journal has more proof that the death-spiral process has sped up, even for films with bankable stars.

WSJ: Indie Films Suffer Drop-Off in Rights Sales

Basically, you should assume you'll get $0 in licensing fees from international sales. And probably $0 from domestic too, for that matter.

And yes, it sucks.

To all of you pollyanna bullshitters -- this isn't "a tipping point opportunity" but a cratering of our already slim opportunities. It ain't good if you love quality indie films.

No money for distribution = no money for production = fewer indie films

Good thing all the art house theaters are dying so they don't have to worry about the lack of films to show.

What can we do?

You focus on building your audience yourself, via online and direct contacts. And don't assume you'll make millions.

It's all about creating a fanbase that you can sell DVDs to directly. Everything else is going away for us little guys.

Comments

[H]

Do you really like indy films and intend to stay in indy films, or do you view your efforts as an application to do mainstream films in Hollywood? What's the light at the end of the tunnel for you?

Thanks
Horace V.

[DJ Bad Vegan]

Horace: While I would not turn down the right funded feature project, I am under no illusion that Hollywood is going to call. Rather, I'm happy making DIY films and enjoying that journey. Life is too short to wait for the opportunity to sell your soul.