In case you missed it, buried beneath the festival strategy posts, here is my entry last week, on Merchandise:
This week’s topic is very important because VOD (Video on Demand) is fast becoming our most viable option for independent content distribution. The market for VOD is growing fast and we’ve already seen VOD content begin to rival television in its critical acclaim (e.g. House of Cards).
VOD content is collected by video aggregators, which come in all shapes and sizes and for many different purposes. Aggregators can be free or subscription-based for viewers. Some organize VOD content for specific niche audiences or based on viewer preferences. Some video aggregators allow viewers to search multiple video-hosting sites for content.
Aggregators also have a myriad of different systems for accepting content and paying (or not paying) content providers (you). As with deciding on merchant services for your DVD distribution, it’s important to compare lots of different aggregators before deciding where to show or upload your work.
There is a lot more out there than Netflix and iTunes; even Vimeo now allows content providers the ability to charge-per-views. Beyond the obvious, there are countless Independent film/niche film sites that accept submissions and offer percentages to filmmakers. Just google search “indie films streaming,” and you’ll have more than enough to begin your research!
The reading for this week is an article from March of this year, discussing the pros and cons of some of the more popular VOD aggregators.
After you read the full article, please read this Google Plus conversation between Sheri Candler and a few Independent filmmakers. They discuss the content of Douglas Horn’s article and weigh in with their experiences in VOD.
Your assignment for the next two weeks is to read these materials and research either (a.) the direct merchandising services you will use or (b.) potential VOD aggregators for distributing your thesis.
Choose the assignment that best fits your current distribution plans.
DUE OCTOBER 28th: Write a blog post in response to assignment option A or B. Blog posts are due by 6pm on OCTOBER 28th. That's two weeks to do extensive research on the option of your choice.
Once you've decided which of the following options you will write about, please comment below to let me know what you are researching!
OPTION A: Direct Merchandise Research
Research merchandise services you will be needing either to sell your merchandise online or at screenings. Refer to last week's blog post for tips on where to begin.
Your post should include:
1. What merchandise you plan to offer your audience and what merch services you will need to carry out distribution.
2. A comparative sample of at least 3 options per service needed, detailing:
a. What services they provide and how
b. Any and all fees, subscriptions, regulations the providers require
c. Specific details on how to sign-up, order, or request these services
d. Your personal assessment of the provider: potential pros/cons, whether or not you'll use them and why, etc.
e. A brief summary of user reviews you've found on the provider
Please include hyperlinks to material that is cited or supports your research.
Please include hyperlinks to material that is cited or supports your research.
OPTION B: VOD Aggregator Research
Research VOD aggregators or video-sharing sites that you will pursue as distribution outlets for your work. Refer to this week's readings for tips on where to begin your research.
Your post should include:
1. Your personal goals for VOD distribution (e.g. to make money, gain viewers, etc.)
2. A comparative sample of at least 3 VOD sites you will consider for distribution, detailing:
a. All services, fees, subscriptions, and regulations required of viewers (how do they see your work?) - what kinds of viewers do they attract?
b. All services, fees, subscriptions, and regulations required of content providers
c. Specific details on how to sign-up, submit, or request these services
d. What's in it for you, in terms of $$, legal rights, exposure
e. Your personal assessment of the provider: potential pros/cons, whether or not you'll use them and why, etc.
f. A brief summary of user reviews you've found on the provider
Please include hyperlinks to material that is cited or supports your research.
A tweet from Daisy led me to this article, which is a good round-up of the last few week, with a slightly different take on DVD, Theatrical, and VOD. It's worth a read:
ReplyDeletehttp://www.thewrap.com/the-top-3-markets-for-distributing-your-film-guest-blog/
Thanks, Daisy! All of your tweets have been really helpful. I hope you are reading each others' findings!
Kate, I am researching Option B.
ReplyDelete