The marketing is working, we are getting press, see both www.buyindies.com and www.independent-magazine.org and publicity should help sales of ROCK and a HEART PLACE for the holidays. Finding ways to create, discussion about your film, i.e. “buzz”, is a bit like following a treasure map. Each step is like following murky clues, go in this direction and you will find new opportunities, but the key is to capitalize on each step along the way.
Case in point, many sites now have a review area where buyers can relate their experience with the product, by means of writing a review. This is an area where any supporters who have purchased the film, can broadcast their comments to a larger audience now, as opposed to just relating their congratulations to only the filmmakers. It can be as little as one line or as long as a feature review, the target is to get everyone to help. If everyone has a hand in your success, there is a groundswell of popularity for the film, a people’s choice award for the film.
While none of this guarantees sales, it is vital that you keep encouraging people to watch and comment about the film. The more who watch, the more who could, by word of mouth, talk it up, remember it and therefore be interested in you as the producer, buy it for friends, or share it with others. Someone along this path may be willing to invest in your next venture, based on their positive impressions of your last project. It is an effort that regardless of outcome, keeps the name of your film alive in the minds of others -- viewers, distributors, other filmmakers --- and that’s good for your film and for your future as a filmmaker. And that's Tip #3 of the Top 10 Distribution Tips to Market your Independent Documentary on DVD.
- Nancy
