Cannes and the Changing Economics of Independent Film Distribution
By
Dana Harris-Bridson
An everything bagel for the brain. Substantive, layered, well-seasoned.
Summary
The article discusses the changing landscape of independent film distribution, contrasting the traditional festival-centric model (where a film's value is determined at events like Cannes) with new realities where streaming and digital platforms have shifted how films succeed. While festival attendance is growing, the traditional distribution model that relies on concentrated moments of buyer and audience convergence is declining. The author shares personal observations and industry data showing that the old rules of independent film economics no longer apply.
Key quotes
· 3 pulledA film's value is determined in a concentrated moment, when buyers, press, and audiences converge.
That implicit agreement has governed independent film for decades and still shapes how films get made. It no longer reflects how they succeed.
Build a film around the festival calendar. Hold it back from audiences, from the market, from any real exposure until the s
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