..and there’s still time to join Mike Clarke, Ash Cook, Sean Drummond and I as we explore new platforms and how they can work for filmmakers
In today’s webinar, I will be joined by Ash Cook (founder and CEO of Video Store•Age), Mike Clarke (founder of FilmTrade), and Sean Drummond (founder of Cindee). Each bring a distinct perspective to the conversation, exploring how merch, physical media, and VOD are merging in new and creative ways, as well as how emerging platforms are creating new models and opportunities for indie film distribution.
If these platforms are new to you, here’s what you need to know:
Video Store•Age circulates a highly curated selection of independent films on encrypted USB drives, bringing a sense of discovery and physical exchange back to watching movies.
FilmTrade’s Tap to Watch™ card reimagines physical media as a collectible card that grants audiences access to films without needing a disc player. (We used it on the release of The Librarians, so I’ve seen it work firsthand.)
Cindee is tackling the direct-to-audience challenge more broadly as an indie-film platform where audiences can find, watch, and buy access to independent films and screenings directly from filmmakers, and discover new festivals and films.
Together, these models raise some intriguing possibilities for creators and audiences alike.
What We’ll Cover
- How do these models help filmmakers build and keep direct relationships with their audiences?
- Why are audiences and filmmakers showing renewed interest in tangible, collectible objects?
- How are these platforms reshaping the market for film distribution?
- What kinds of films are best suited to your model, and which aren’t?
- What makes a piece of merchandise feel essential to a film, rather than a generic branded item?
- When in a film’s life should a filmmaker start planning for merch and physical release?
- Can physical media raise the perceived value of an independent film?
- What’s on the horizon for this style of distribution?
This event is free! So sign up and spread the word to anyone who might be interested. But feel free to become a paid subscriber or Buy Us a Matcha to support our work.
See you at the webinar,
Jon.https://jonreiss.substack.com/p/new-platforms-new-possibilities-webinar