Distribution

Distribution is the highly competitive business of launching and sustaining films in the market place.
Theatrical distributors share and discuss their release plans with :
- Film makers and producers
- Exhibitors
- A host of external partners , e.g publicists , advertising agencies and designers.


All distributors go through the stage of 'The competitive Jungle'
For example , they have to take in consideration if other films that are about to be released have bankable stars , as this can put them in competition with other films . The release date is always a huge issue , because distributors have to allocate the film on a time where , the film is not in competition with other films. Also , the certificate of the film has to be decided , and this can be quite a controversial issue.

found the following on http://www.launchingfilms.tv/distribution.php :

n an age when we're all bombarded with media choices, the cinema presents films with a vital shop window. This generic guide to UK distribution focuses on how films are launched in cinemas.

Producer/company acquires rights to film a story or treatment

Screenplay is developed

Production finance and cast and crew are confirmed

Principal photography takes place, in studios and/or on agreed locations, followed by some months of post-production, editing and scoring

Master print of finished film is delivered to local distributor

Distributor determines release strategy and release date

Distributor presents the film to exhibitors and negotiates bilateral agreements to have the film shown in cinemas