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FILM IN 140 PANEL SERIES: DIGITAL DISTRIBUTION – I WANT MY CABLE VOD

By Mark Bell | June 5, 2011

Film Threat’s Film in 140 Panel on Twitter that took place on Wednesday, June 8, 2011 from 9-10pm EST was entitled “Digital Distribution: I Want My Cable VOD.” Continuing the digital distribution discussion, the next panel will focus on Cable, Satellite and Telco VOD . How to access millions of homes through the use of MSO’s like Time Warner, Comcast, DirecTV and AT&T? What films typically do well on these platforms? Are there differences in using Cable, satellite, and telco transactional VOD? Is anything done to help market the titles once they are accepted into the system? How long is the window for the typical cable VOD title? Are there factors that make a title attractive to MSOs? Transcript below!

PANELISTS

  • Melanie Miller, Director of Acquisitions, Gravitas Ventures (@GravitasVOD)
    Gravitas Ventures specializes in the aggregation of entertainment content for worldwide distribution via established and evolving platforms in cable Video on Demand (VOD), broadband, mobile and the airline/hospitality industries. By releasing over 400 films annually, Gravitas connects over 300 independent filmmakers, producers, and distribution companies to leading cable, satellite, telco and online distribution partners. Through its relationships, Gravitas can distribute a film into up to 100 million North American homes. The founder, Nolan Gallagher, worked at Comcast and Warner Bros. as VOD was first being rolled out nationwide. Nolan saw a desire for independent product in the VOD marketplace and launched Gravitas in 2006.
  • Matt Dentler, Head of Content, FilmBuff (@FilmBuff)
    FilmBuff is the distribution label of Cinetic Rights Management, a New York based company founded in 2007.

    FilmBuff curates the best in original content for online audiences. FilmBuff scours the earth in search of compelling stories and ensures that content is available for viewers regardless of their viewing platform. As one of the largest and most successful suppliers of digital entertainment content, FilmBuff delivers to all of the leading platforms across North America and Europe through its partnerships with cable, satellite and telco companies, game consoles, online retailers, wireless platforms, and hardware manufacturers.

TRANSCRIPT

@Filmin140Panel bout 15 minutes and we’ll be talking cable/satellite/telco VOD with @GravitasVOD and @FilmBuff. Thinking of ?? #filmin140 -8:43 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@Filmin140Panel a quick read up on one of our panelists http://www.gravitasventures.com/ #filmin140 -8:48 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@Filmin140Panel an article about how @Variancefilms and @GravitasVOD saved American: The Bill Hicks Story http://bit.ly/kxGpgo #filmin140 -8:50 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@Filmin140Panel movies now available through @FilmBuff http://bit.ly/j2HSXg #filmin140 -8:52 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@FilmBuff Okay, @MattDentler here… about to take over the @FilmBuff account and participate in a #filmin140 Twitter panel. Stay tuned… -8:56 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@Filmin140Panel welcome Matt! #filmin140 -8:56 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@Filmin140Panel 3 minutes #filmin140 -8:57 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@GravitasVOD #filmin140 Melanie from Gravitas is here too -8:58 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@Filmin140Panel Welcome Melanie! #filmin140 -8:58 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@Filmin140Panel Welcome to tonight’s panel! Our topic is “Digital Distribution: I Want My Cable VOD” #filmin140 -9:00 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@Filmin140Panel You can follow along with the conversation at TweetChat (http://bit.ly/abFubH) or at Film Threat (http://bit.ly/daqlJq) #filmin140 -9:00 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@Filmin140Panel Our panelists tonight are Melanie Miller of Gravitas Ventures (@GravitasVOD) and… #filmin140 -9:00 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@FilmBuff Thanks, hey everybody! #filmin140 -9:01 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@Filmin140Panel …Matt Dentler of @FilmBuff (@FilmBuff). #filmin140 -9:01 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@GravitasVOD #filmin140 Hello all! -9:01 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@Filmin140Panel Though we have panelists, multiple voices are welcome, so join in the discussion and bring your questions #filmin140 -9:01 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@Filmin140Panel First question for the panelists, describe a little of what each of you do, what platforms specifically do you service? #filmin140 -9:02 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@millpondpro Excited to finally check out #filmin140! #filmin140 -9:03 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@GravitasVOD #filmin140 Acquisitions. Comcast, TWC, Cox, Apple iTunes, Netflix, Hulu, etc. -9:03 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@Filmin140Panel @GravitasVOD more than I thought. I thought you just did cable, telco, satellite mainly #filmin140 -9:04 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@TheRealEvert #filmin140 Greetings from Cape Town, South Africa. 🙂 -9:04 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@malaikamose What @GravitasVOD does Acquisitions. Comcast, TWC, Cox, Apple iTunes, Netflix, Hulu, etc. #filmin140 -9:04 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@FilmBuff I’m the head of content at @FilmBuff, and we release films across broadband and cable VOD platforms both in the U.S. and abroad. #filmin140 -9:04 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@GravitasVOD #filmin140 @Filmin140Panel We di cable, telco, satellite as well as internet We’re direct with 65+ cable operators. -9:05 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@Filmin140Panel @FilmBuff that would’ve been my next question, working in foreign territories. In what countries or do you mean via internet? #filmin140 -9:05 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@Filmin140Panel @GravitasVOD all in the US? #filmin140 -9:06 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@GravitasVOD #filmin140 @malaikamose – Melanie Miller here, Head of Acquisitions. -9:06 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@FilmBuff Abroad, we release films on LoveFilm/Blinkbox in the UK, Voddler in Scandinavia, Big Pond in Australia, and others… #filmin140 -9:06 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@pattyfantasia @GravitasVOD is involved with several options including Acquisitions, Comcast, TWC, Cox Apple iTunes, Netflix and Hulu. #filmin140 -9:07 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@Filmin140Panel @GravitasVOD @FilmBuff do you go to festivals to acquire or do you get them through other distributors or directly from filmmaker #filmin140 -9:07 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@GravitasVOD #filmin140 @Filmin140Panel We focus on North American rights but have rolled out films internationally where we have the rights. -9:08 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@FilmBuff All of the above. We work directly with filmmakers but also work with sales agents and also with distributors. #filmin140 -9:08 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@FilmBuff For example, in July, we will release the documentary ARMADILLO in partnership with Kino Lorber. #filmin140 -9:09 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@millpondpro @FilmBuff – in your opinion, to what degree does having a cast of somewhat “recognizable names” help on VOD? #filmin140 -9:09 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@GravitasVOD #filmin140 We work with filmmakers directly as well as sales agents, producers reps, etc -9:09 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@Filmin140Panel @GravitasVOD which do you prefer because if it were me, I’d go direct and ditch the agents? #filmin140 -9:10 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@GravitasVOD #filmin140 @milpondpro – Cast is king -9:10 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@FilmBuff @millpondpro “Recognizable names” will never hurt a film on VOD, but quality is always important no matter what. #filmin140 -9:10 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@Filmin140Panel What factors influence whether a property is right for VOD programming? genre, name talent, theatrical release mandatory etc? #filmin140 -9:11 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@GravitasVOD #filmin140 @Filmin140Panel – There are over 100+ cable operators in North America. Going direct is difficult. -9:11 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@FilmBuff For cable VOD, you really have to visualize someone sitting on their couch on a Saturday night. The offering has to be compelling #filmin140 -9:12 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@FilmBuff So, cast is great, if the film actually delivers. But I think for cable VOD, audiences ultimately want entertainment and escapism #filmin140 -9:13 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@GravitasVOD #filmin140 @Filmin140Panel – Theatrical release is not mandatory but numbers on the board do help a film when operators are making decisions -9:13 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@Filmin140Panel @GravitasVOD with so many operators,do you access them ALL or can I say which areas I want, know my film will do well in? #filmin140 -9:13 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@GravitasVOD #filmin140 @ @Filmin140Panel – Names of note are always helpful but as Matt stated good content as well as story are important -9:13 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@malaikamose How does thaat differ from a theatrical audience @FilmBuff: for cable VOD, audiences ultimately want entertainment and escapism #filmin140 -9:14 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@atlfilm365 @GravitasVOD With so many cable operators, are their regional differences you factor in? #filmin140 -9:14 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@FilmBuff Something more personal, educational, didactic, and somber will probably do better on broadband. #filmin140 -9:14 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@Filmin140Panel @GravitasVOD @FilmBuff are you pitching titles to these operators, like they do with exhibitors? How are titles chosen? #filmin140 -9:14 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@GravitasVOD #filmin140 @Filmin140Panel – Larger operators like Comcast, TWC & Verizon are national. All have subs across the country. -9:15 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@atlfilm365 @FilmBuff Are their particular genres that do better than others on VOD? #filmin140 -9:15 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@FilmBuff @Filmin140Panel We discuss our titles with the cable operators, but I think at this point, we’ve developed trust. #filmin140 -9:17 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@GravitasVOD #filmin140 @Filmin140Panel Each month we have the ability to program 25+ titles under various genres thru our packages. -9:17 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@directingactors Is it true a cast with all its talent under 1000 starmeter @IMDb won’t get a look? Will genre and or subject help? (escapism) #filmin140 -9:17 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@TheRealEvert #filmin140 Panelists, regarding VOD, have a script that I think warrants a look at. Any suggested film prod companies to approach? -9:17 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@millpondpro @FilmBuff @GravitasVOD – Finding revenue numbers for VOD is difficult (compared to BO) Can you point to specific film $ numbers? #filmin140 -9:17 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@GravitasVOD #filmin140 @atlfilm365 – genres that overindex include horror/thriller, comedy & docs when merchandised correctly. -9:18 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@FilmBuff @atlfilm365 On cable VOD, romantic comedies and genre films (thriller/horror) seem to do better #filmin140 -9:18 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@Filmin140Panel @FilmBuff ah, so you know what does well and they trust your judgment. You won’t take a title that you feel won’t deliver? #filmin140 -9:18 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@FilmBuff Visualize the cable VOD experience: you’re watching with someone else usually… it’s gonna be a film that works with a partner. #filmin140 -9:19 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@milesmaker @GravitasVOD Are particular MPAA ratings preferred or easier to package? What about Adult content?? #filmin140 -9:19 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@directingactors @GravitasVOD Is it true a cast with all its talent >1000 starmeter @IMDb won’t get a look? Will genre/subject help? (escapism) #filmin140 -9:19 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@atlfilm365 @milesmaker Good question. Interesting to know if independent films that normally would be NC-17 could go straight VOD? #filmin140 -9:20 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@FilmBuff That’s our goal RT @Filmin140Panel you know what does well, they trust your judgment. You won’t take a title that won’t deliver #filmin140 -9:20 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@GravitasVOD #filmin140 @directingactors – not true re: under 1000 star meter. Just launched a film nationwide yesterday with the highest @ 1900 -9:21 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@FilmBuff Hard to say, but cable cares about content RT @atlfilm365 @milesmaker films that normally would be NC-17 could go straight VOD? #filmin140 -9:22 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@directingactors YES! >>>RT @GravitasVOD: not true re: under 1000 star meter. Just launched a film nationwide yesterday with the highest @1900 #filmin140 -9:22 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@GravitasVOD #filmin140 @milesmaker – NR does goes up but most operators are now looking for @ least a TV rating -9:23 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@Filmin140Panel @FilmBuff @GravitasVOD so are you programming for them? how many other companies do what you do for VOD channels? #filmin140 -9:23 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@TheRealEvert #filmin140 @millpondpro @GravitasVOD Have Shakespeare serial killer script bubbling for VOD. Suggested prod companies? 🙂 -9:23 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@FilmBuff A few, and we all do things a little differently. RT @Filmin140Panel how many other companies do what you do for VOD channels? #filmin140 -9:24 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@atlfilm365 @FilmBuff What makes your approach unique or different? Same ? for @GravitasVOD #filmin140 -9:25 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@GravitasVOD #filmin140 @Filmin140Panel – the goal is to always put a film out as far and wide as possible, you should just keep it windows in mind. -9:26 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@Filmin140Panel @GravitasVOD no comment on the windows #filmin140 -9:26 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@milesmaker Typically exclusive deals? Is anything done to position a film prominently for extra attention (recommendations) or is there P&A? #filmin140 -9:26 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@FilmBuff @atlfilm365 I would say our approach looks at cable and broadband in equal measures, but also to be a curator for digital content #filmin140 -9:27 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@FilmBuff Meaning, we want to share everyone’s content with audiences, not just the content we release #filmin140 -9:27 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@FilmBuff If there’s a really great Gravitas film, we want to make sure you know about it #filmin140 -9:27 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@GravitasVOD #filmin140 @Filmin140Panel – Our approach is 1st & foremost good content while staying hyper focused on what will do well withi n the space -9:28 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@FilmBuff A big goal of ours, is to build out VOD as a whole. We have amazing films, but there are 100 years of amazing films out there. #filmin140 -9:28 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@Filmin140Panel @GravitasVOD @FilmBuff so I am getting that you are more about gatekeeping for the cable companies? #filmin140 -9:29 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@FilmBuff @Filmin140Panel Just like with theaters or cable channels, the VOD platforms do like to work with trusted companies for content #filmin140 -9:30 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@Filmin140Panel @GravitasVOD @FilmBuff which is cool if that’s your job, just want it all clear to everyone here #filmin140 -9:31 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@milesmaker Typically exclusive deals? Is anything done to position a film prominently for attention (featured) or is there P&A involved? #filmin140 -9:31 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@GravitasVOD #filmin140 @filmin140 We’re aggregators as well as programmers . That’s how we’re different. MSO’s trust us to provide content -9:31 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@FilmBuff @milesmaker No P&A in traditional sense. Basically, we are talking to the cable companies all week, every week, to get promotion. #filmin140 -9:32 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@GravitasVOD #filmin140 @milesmaker – we only work in exclusives. “non-exclusive” sounds great but cause confusion in the marketplace -9:33 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@atlfilm365 How do you think audiences have been embracing Cable VOD? Especially the last few years? #filmin140 -9:33 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@GravitasVOD #filmin140 Agree with Matt that it’s important to have ongoing dialogue with cable execs for placement & marketing purposes -9:34 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@FilmBuff @atlfilm365 There’s no question that cable VOD has grown immensely in the last few years. #filmin140 -9:34 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@FilmThreat How does a filmmaker get their film in front of you for consideration? #filmin140 -9:34 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@Filmin140Panel @GravitasVOD in what way do you mean placement? in the menu, in decision screen trailers, in on demand publications or websites? #filmin140 -9:35 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@FilmBuff The one “problem” for indie filmmakers is that the studios are now in cable VOD even more. More competition. #filmin140 -9:35 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@atlfilm365 @FilmBuff Do you feel they look at them differently than Straight to DVD films? #filmin140 -9:35 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@GravitasVOD #filmin140 @atlfilm365 Cable VOD has shown double digit growth each year of the last few years. -9:36 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@FilmBuff We take submissions from anyone, for consideration. #filmin140 -9:36 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@itsmrmoe Financial anatomy of VOD revenue split? #filmin140 -9:37 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@Filmin140Panel @FilmBuff any upfront payments? I don’t imagine there is much backend from this after all the % comes out #filmin140 -9:37 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@milesmaker I approached @WarnerHomeVideo they like the work then referred me @GravitasVOD #filmin140 -9:37 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@GravitasVOD #filmin140 @atlfilm365 – We accept submissions. See here http://bit.ly/kRPAVl -9:38 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@FilmBuff @Filmin140Panel A few platforms might pay a license fees, but much of this world is revenue share. But rev share can mean $$$ #filmin140 -9:39 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@GravitasVOD #filmin140 @milesmaker We work closely with Warner Bros. Digital Distro and regularly getting referred -9:39 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@Filmin140Panel @FilmBuff it can? like what? #filmin140 -9:40 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@GravitasVOD #filmin140 @itsmrmoe depending on the cable operator & the release pattern of the film within the space can dictate the split -9:41 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@FilmBuff @Filmin140Panel We’ve had many films generate six figures from digital. #filmin140 -9:41 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@Filmin140Panel seems that the new trend is VOD then theatrical. Will we be seeing more of this especially for indies? #filmin140 -9:41 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@milesmaker @atlfilm365 Consider the fact no matter WHO picks your film up, there absolutely WILL BE deliverables… #filmin140 -9:41 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@TheRealEvert @Filmin140Panel @FilmBuff hey folks- suggest any VOD-specific prod companies for me Shakespeare serial killer script? #filmin140 -9:42 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@GravitasVOD #filmin140 @Filmin140Panel we recently did a theatrical/vod launch with AMERICAN THE BILL HICKS STORY with @Variancefilms -9:43 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@FilmBuff @TheRealEvert Depends on where you’re based… But, frankly, few prod companies are “VOD-specific” #filmin140 -9:43 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@atlfilm365 @GravitasVOD so can you give a range of the shares you’ve seen? 30 to 70%? Filmmakers ask and they get few (really no) numbers. #filmin140 -9:43 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@FilmThreat @TheRealEvert Think you’re barking up the wrong panel. This one is about what can happen AFTER the film is made, not the how to #filmin140 -9:43 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@milesmaker Is there an advance to absorb deliverables or are these ‘out of pocket’ expenses? I know there’s no average but typical estimate? #filmin140 -9:43 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@gregorybayne That’s the basic approach we’re taking with @drivenfilm. RT @Filmin140Panel seems new trend is VOD then theatrical…. #filmin140 -9:44 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@FilmBuff @Filmin140Panel Theatrical will always help VOD performance. Problem is that many films lose money on theatrical. #filmin140 -9:44 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@Filmin140Panel @GravitasVOD John Carpenter’s latest is going VOD before theatrical. Read another one today too can’t remember #filmin140 -9:44 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@gregorybayne @milesmaker Out of pocket. Total amount depends but $8-$12K. #filmin140 -9:45 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@FilmBuff @milesmaker Financial projections truly depend on the project. Sorry if that’s vague, but it’s true. #filmin140 -9:45 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@GravitasVOD #filmin140 @altfilm365 There’s a huge range. We’ve returned net to filmmakers anywhere from low 4 to low 6 figures. -9:46 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@atlfilm365 @FilmBuff Is that a role festivals and film series increasingly play? Being the local theatrical to setup the VOD? #filmin140 -9:46 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@grking @milesmaker I hear some of the biggest expense is the E&O. & if the filmmakers were organized in post then it’ll much smoother #filmin140 -9:47 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@TheRealEvert @FilmThreat I know films are made BEFORE they’re shown. even tho all r in distr,perhaps they’d know where VOD prod comes from! 🙂 #filmin140 -9:47 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@FilmBuff @atlfilm365 Festivals are great, but they do not equal a real theatrical in the eyes of the media. That’s the issue. #filmin140 -9:47 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@GravitasVOD #filmin140 on the delivery front it’s all dictated by what you have in terms of your original master and the outlets that will receive it -9:48 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@atlfilm365 @FilmBuff so it sounds like, at least among press, there’s still a bit of a cultural lag with VOD? #filmin140 -9:49 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@FilmBuff Re: delivery, my head of operations (@afnewton) would want me to remind you: make sure you have the best master possible. #filmin140 -9:49 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@gregorybayne @grking @milesmaker Yep. Yep. #filmin140 -9:49 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@atlfilm365 RT @FilmBuff: Re: delivery, my head of operations (@afnewton) would want me to remind you: have the best master possible. #filmin140 -9:50 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@TheRealEvert @FilmThreat Bit of a harsh reply, no? #filmin140 -9:50 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@FilmBuff @atlfilm365 National media is coming around to VOD. Look at Entertainment Weekly, they are definitely embracing it finally. #filmin140 -9:50 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@GravitasVOD #filmin140 @atlfilm365 This weekend Nolan was on a panel with @thatKevinSmith and he’s become a believer . http://bit.ly/mAZgTM -9:51 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@Filmin140Panel I think the media will come around, they’ll have to. digital is the future #filmin140 -9:52 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@FilmBuff Make your film the way you want to, but make it as inexpensively as possible. Then you can experiment with the release. #filmin140 -9:52 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@FilmThreat @Filmin140Panel Media sucks. Press doesn’t know anything 😉 #filmin140 -9:52 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@milesmaker @FilmBuff That goes without saying what Producer wouldn’t? What factors affect deliverables besides E&O? Sound? Picture? #filmin140 -9:52 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@vgbnd Food for thought… But how about doing a 4-wall theatrical release for $10-12k & think of it as promotion for VOD & DVD… #filmin140 -9:52 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@Filmin140Panel @FilmThreat hey, what can I say. But not you Mark!! #filmin140 -9:53 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@GravitasVOD #filmin140 You see more VOD centric articles in the trades and online via deadline hollywood, etc. -9:53 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@atlfilm365 to that end, do you think there’s been a film that’s done well and changed the perception of VOD? or has one come out yet? #filmin140 -9:53 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@shackett I prefer Theatrical to #VOD. If you care about Critics / Press Reviewing your film, theatrical is needed #filmin140 -9:54 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@FilmThreat @TheRealEvert Don’t think so; just didn’t think the answer for your question would be found here. #filmin140 -9:54 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@vgbnd Forget about trying to make $$$ on theatrical & use it as advertising for VOD & DVD… #filmin140 -9:54 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@Filmin140Panel @vgbnd the man said it’s all about the media attention. You can spend that, but you’d better get some good reviews out of it #filmin140 -9:54 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@atlfilm365 In other words, could there be a March of the Penguins of VOD in the future? #filmin140 -9:54 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@FilmThreat @shackett Not true. And now I won’t review your film! #filmin140 -9:54 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@grking hahaa RT @FilmThreat: @shackett Not true. And now I won’t review your film! #filmin140 -9:55 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@FilmBuff @atlfilm365 I think we’ve seen a few examples: ALL GOOD THINGS from Magnolia got a lot of attention with their $4 mil VOD number. #filmin140 -9:55 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@FilmThreat I’m a big fan of VOD, particularly when the films I miss at fests are available on cable when I get home… #filmin140 -9:55 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@vgbnd If you can break even or keep your loses on theatrical to a minimum & get some reviews in papers thinking of that as advertising. #filmin140 -9:55 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@milesmaker @shackett I care less about traditional media & more about my bloggers, interest groups & influencers of my core target audience. #filmin140 -9:56 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@GravitasVOD #filmin140 @Variancefilms did 22 market release for AMERICAN THE BILLS HICKS STORY on a modest budget and the films theatrical is @ $86K -9:56 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@shackett @FilmThreat , whatever you don’t consider yourself a journalist . So I’m not worried 🙂 #filmin140 -9:56 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@whomadewhoprods I’ll have to catch up on #filmin140 later on; best wishes to all! -9:56 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@Filmin140Panel +1 RT @milesmaker: I care less about traditional media more about bloggers, interest groups influencers of core target audience. #filmin140 -9:57 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@vgbnd i think of theatrical as a means to get reviews & promote VOD & DVD… That’s my plan with my film #MACHETERO #filmin140 -9:57 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@GravitasVOD #filmin140 Nothing will replace the theatrical experience BUT VOD is the best way to get your film in front of 100 million viewers! -9:57 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@shackett The only time anyone has ever told me “you have to see this film on VOD” it’s been from the filmmaker. Theatrical has power. #filmin140 -9:57 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@FilmThreat @shackett You’re lucky I considered myself a juror though 😉 #filmin140 -9:58 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@Filmin140Panel @vgbnd and its a good plan…if you get reviews and they are all positive. It’s a risk #filmin140 -9:58 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@Filmin140Panel I’ve never watched anything on VOD, I skip those channels. I don’t even know what to do with them. I’m not alone either #filmin140 -9:58 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@shackett Note, my thesis isn’t VOD is bad. I just think Theatrical should happen first if it can. #filmin140 -9:59 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@GravitasVOD #filmin140 @atlfilm365 Sundance alum CRIPS & BLOODS: MADE IN AMERICA did 70K @ boxoffice and high 6 figures on VOD. -10:00 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@vgbnd Getting a 4-wall deal in NYC will cost $10-15k which has potential to get you reviews in which is like a free ad… #filmin140 -10:00 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@Filmin140Panel ok this is time up. Thanks to @GravitasVOD and @FilmBuff for joining us. The discussion can continue if all are willing #filmin140 -10:00 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@vgbnd @Filmin140Panel If you don’t think you’re gonna get good reviews then why release the film at all? #filmin140 -10:00 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@FilmBuff You’ll need more than NYC RT @vgbnd: Getting a 4-wall deal in NYC will cost $10-15k which has potential to get you reviews… #filmin140 -10:00 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@GravitasVOD #filmin140 @vgbnd – well said re: theatrical 4wall and the fact that it provides press & builds awareness for VOD & DVD -10:01 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@shackett @FilmThreat hahaha. I am. As a fan, the only two ways I have an influence is if i say See it in Theatres or Netflix Streaming #filmin140 -10:01 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@Filmin140Panel @vgbnd food for thought, food for thought #filmin140 -10:01 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@atlfilm365 Wow RT @GravitasVOD: #filmin140 Sundance alum CRIPS & BLOODS: MADE IN AMERICA did 70K @ boxoffice and high 6 figures on VOD. #filmin140 -10:01 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@FilmBuff When it comes to a theatrical release, the saying “in for a penny, in for a pound” was never more apt. #filmin140 -10:01 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@millpondpro This chat was really great. Thanks @GravitasVOD & @FilmBuff! #filmin140 -10:02 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@vgbnd @FilmBuff NYC may not be enough for but it’s a major market and a heel of a good place to start… #filmin140 -10:02 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@shackett And Homecoming already has an offer for VOD. But we want to hold out for Theatrical first. Even thought we’ll lose $$$ doing it #filmin140 -10:02 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@FilmBuff I’d be remiss, if I didn’t say, don’t forget to visit our site: @FilmBuffondemand.com”>http://@FilmBuffondemand.com #filmin140 -10:02 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@atlfilm365 @FilmBuff I agree. I used to read NY press for film reviews and news. With the net, that’s way infrequent now. #filmin140 -10:02 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@FilmThreat @shackett A VOD in the hand… #filmin140 -10:03 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@FilmBuff I’m happy to stick around for a little bit longer, if people have more questions regarding VOD… #filmin140 -10:03 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@FilmThreat Keep chatting. Transcript will be up on @FilmThreat.com”>@FilmThreat.com tomorrow #filmin140 -10:04 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@vgbnd @shackett i strongly agree with you… Theatrical is a holy grail that should be pesued at all costs… #filmin140 -10:05 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@atlfilm365 What’s the typical time a VOD title stays up? #filmin140 -10:05 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@shackett @FilmBuff What i think there needs to be more of is how to Market VOD effectively as a filmmaker. #filmin140 -10:05 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@millpondpro @FilmBuff Can you point me to any articles/documents that have good current stats on VOD I can use in a business plan? #filmin140 -10:05 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@Filmin140Panel @shackett @FilmThreat, he said it not me 🙂 #filmin140 -10:05 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@FilmThreat @Filmin140Panel Oh, I know who said it. I keep notes… #filmin140 -10:06 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@Filmin140Panel @millpondpro I like this place http://www.baselineintel.com/ #filmin140 -10:07 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@Filmin140Panel @FilmThreat I thought it was a drinking game… #filmin140 -10:07 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@FilmBuff @shackett VOD marketing is the next big challenge, but that’s why companies like ours and Gravitas are good places to start. #filmin140 -10:07 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@shackett @FilmBuff It also seems like something keeps VOD challenging is that teenagers have to use their parents accts for cable #filmin140 -10:09 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@Filmin140Panel @OnDemandWeekly Britt, where you been? tell these folks how to get media coverage for their VOD titles #filmin140 -10:09 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@FilmBuff @shackett That’s one reason why places like Hulu, YouTube, SnagFilms, etc. are where teens will flock. Don’t need a credit card. #filmin140 -10:10 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@millpondpro Thanks to @shericandler for steering me to #filmin140 a few months back. I am now hooked! #filmin140 -10:11 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@Filmin140Panel @millpondpro tell your friends. we’re here at least once a month, sometimes twice #filmin140 -10:12 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@OnDemandWeekly Any gender stats on who uses VOD more? rt @FilmBuff …the cable VOD experience… it’s gonna be a film that works w/ a partner. #filmin140 -10:12 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@millpondpro @Filmin140Panel Will do. Thanks. #filmin140 -10:12 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@vgbnd @atlfilm365 You may go to the net and not read the NY press for film reviews as much but the NY press has a web presence… #filmin140 -10:13 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@FilmBuff Varies from platform to platform. RT @OnDemandWeekly Any gender stats on who uses VOD more? #filmin140 -10:13 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@Filmin140Panel one of the things I don’t like about VOD is no customer data, no access for filmmakers to build aud long term #filmin140 -10:14 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@Filmin140Panel great 100 million homes, you don’t know any of them. You can’t recontact. Probably even the cable company can’t #filmin140 -10:15 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@Filmin140Panel same thing with Apple, they have your customer’s details you don’t. Start over again every time, that’s cost efficient? #filmin140 -10:16 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@FilmBuff Okay, thanks to Melanie from Gravitas, @Filmin140Panel, and all of you… we had fun! Keep in touch. #filmin140 -10:16 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@shackett @FilmBuff Prefer Youtube most because it allows users to interact with the filmmaker. It’s the closest ot being a soc network #filmin140 -10:16 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@Filmin140Panel @FilmBuff thanks for joining us Matt! #filmin140 -10:17 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@atlfilm365 Thanks @FilmBuff and @GravitasVOD! #filmin140 -10:18 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@atlfilm365 @vgbnd NY Press does have a web presence, but there’s a lot more places to get film news now is my point. #filmin140 -10:20 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@millpondpro See you later everyone, thanks for the chat! #filmin140 -10:21 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@OnDemandWeekly @atlfilm365 @MagnoliaPics also did well on VOD w/ THE OTHER WOMAN & 13 ASSASSINS. #filmin140 -10:22 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@atlfilm365 @vgbnd There’s so much out there now, that any press you get in NY doesn’t activate people outside of NY as it once did. #filmin140 -10:23 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@OnDemandWeekly @xfinity_tv recently released their On Demand Awards noting top 3 / category. Not real #’s, but it’s a start http://bit.ly/mGnFXG #filmin140 -10:24 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@vgbnd @atlfilm365 i got you. But if you can get the NYTImes or Village Voice to get you in print & on the web it jump starts things. #filmin140 -10:26 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@OnDemandWeekly We review new movies on demand from the likes of @FilmBuff @GravitasVOD and @MagnoliaPics @IFCFilms @OnDemandWeekly.com/”>http://@OnDemandWeekly.com/ #filmin140 -10:27 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@Filmin140Panel ok all I’m out. We’ll see you again soon. Taking topic suggestions on our FB page http://www.facebook.com/filmin140 #filmin140 -10:30 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@OnDemandWeekly Our review of Rashida Jones in MONOGAMY (@OscopeLabs ) #MovieOnDemand #VOD #filmin140 http://fb.me/CB3niMDf -10:30 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@atlfilm365 @vgbnd That’s true to some extent. But it’s greatly diminished when other sites can now get out reviews /news much faster #filmin140 -10:31 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@OnDemandWeekly Chris Claro (@ungerwu) reviews David Hyde Pierce in THE PERFECT HOST (@MagnoliaPics) #filmin140 #MovieOnDemand #VOD http://fb.me/NlNlj5Gv -10:32 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@atlfilm365 @vgbnd Can they add credibility like no other pubs? Most definitely. But credibility doesn’t = audience. #filmin140 -10:33 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@OnDemandWeekly @Cynthia_Kane tells us if more vampires in WE ARE THE NIGHT (@IFCFilms) is a good thing. #filmin140 #MovieOnDemand… http://fb.me/Sy6e1NFx -10:33 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@atlfilm365 @vgbnd And younger audiences now have 15 years of new media and niche film coverage. Much like politics the audience is fractured #filmin140 -10:34 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@OnDemandWeekly I ran VOD for Sundance Channel. Getting media coverage for VOD is a challenge. That’s what I started ODW. @Filmin140Panel #filmin140 -10:39 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@OnDemandWeekly 1) Know the film business as best you can before producing the film. Can it get the theatrical everyone covets? @Filmin140Panel #filmin140 -10:42 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@OnDemandWeekly 2) If not, I’d determine what is the minimum I need from Home Entertainment market to cover production costs. @Filmin140Panel #filmin140 -10:43 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@OnDemandWeekly 3) If going VOD route, work w/ a good VOD distributor like @FilmBuff @GravitasVOD @MagnoliaPics @IFCFilms etc. @Filmin140Panel #filmin140 -10:44 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@OnDemandWeekly 4) Do your best to work traditional local & natl marketing methods to promote your film, regardless of platform. @Filmin140Panel #filmin140 -10:45 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@OnDemandWeekly Just cause your film is on VOD, doesn’t mean you’ll find an audience. You’re competing w/ everything on TV & VOD. @Filmin140Panel #filmin140 -10:46 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@OnDemandWeekly And 5) For anyone still on #filmin140, if your film does get released on VOD. Have your distributor let us know. thx -10:48 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@Chuklz @OnDemandWeekly is there a fundamental difference between marketing for VOD only from a traditional distribution marketing plan? #filmin140 -10:48 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@vgbnd @atlfilm365 Yeah but it’s something to build on… i don’t mean to sound like it’s Alpha & Omega… just a place to begin… #filmin140 -11:09 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@vgbnd @atlfilm365 If you can get some buzz in NYC press you can get traction elsewhere and build a momentum… #filmin140 -11:12 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@OnDemandWeekly I think they’re similar w/ the caveat of informing consumers where to find your film on demand. @Chuklz #filmin140 -11:28 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@OnDemandWeekly @Chuklz Get consumers to the point they’re deciding to watch your film based on the film and not being able to find it on VOD. #filmin140 -11:30 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@milesmaker After tonight’s #filmin140 I’m revisiting my movie title & ‘how far’ to go w/edgy fare; at least my theme/genre fits the VOD model! #craft -11:31 PM Jun 8th, 2011

@milesmaker Changed the name of my guerrilla indie erotic thriller noir from ‘fukndeathgame’ to ‘killersext’ thanks @GravitasVOD @FilmBuff #filmin140 -10:12 AM Jun 9th, 2011

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  1. terry nickell says:

    a person with a film on vod with gravitas owes me money. i am to be paid the first monies the film generates. is there any way i can find how much money a certain film has generated ?? thanks for your help. . terry nickell

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