How do you have an independent studio pick up your film

[hazardfilms123]

I've noticed that studios like Fox Searchlight Pictures are always saying "find your voice, make your films ect." But they never give a contact to actually talk to them about making your films are submitting them. Does anyone have any idea to get independent distributors like these involved in the development of your movies? Has anyone had any experience with these companies?

 

[DerekEastham]

Independent studio's tend to be distribution sources only.

They want exactly what they say... they want you to find your voice and make your own movie with money you find on your own... then, when you're finished and go around the festival circuit, they take a look and if they like it and think they can sell it, they might make an offer.

That's usually the route it goes for films like Napolean Dynamite, Garden State & Big Fat Greek Wedding.

Another road is to attach a name actor... then approach many studios at once looking for production funding... if they believe you've got a movie with enough commercial value, then you may end up with a production deal and out the door distribution.

 

[optimist]

Indie studios are studios

Indie studios are studios

Indie studios like Fox Searchlight function like the big studios - except that they tend to pick up films at the MAJOR festivals, and most of the time BEFORE the festivals. For example, ever notice that the big films at Sundance already have distribution in place? The indie studios are really not a viable option for indie filmmakers unless you end up at Sundance, or Cannes, or one of those...

Stacey*