5 Mistakes First-Time Distributors Make, and How To Avoid Them
Victoria Ogar, Head of Distribution, FilmOne Entertainment Getting into film distribution is exciting. It is also a lot to take in. I have seen new distributors rush in with passion, but passion alone isn’t enough. This business needs strategy, patience, and strong relationships. That is one of the reasons we launched the FilmOne Exhibitors Showcase to bridge that gap between passion and practical industry knowledge. It is a space that helps new and existing distributors understand the full picture of how film distribution works, build valuable connections, and see how strategy translates into success. Here are five mistakes I see first-timers make, and how you can stay clear of them. 1. Underestimating Relationships Distribution is built on people. Exhibitors, producers, marketers, even fellow distributors; they all matter. Many newcomers focus only on screens, forgetting that without trust and good relationships, films won’t go far. Build your network. Show up. Be reliable. People remember consistency more than promises. 2. Content, Marketing and Positioning It is easy to believe every film will be a hit, especially when you love the story. Content is key, do your homework, Study audience behavior, look at films in the same category, ask questions on box office performances so far and keep your expectations realistic. 3. Distributor & Producer Handshake What works for film A may not work with Film B, C or D. A distributor shares more insights on the landscape and market realities. Understanding what excites the audience is integral to distribution; there needs to be a handshake between producers and distributors on strategies and execution. Some distributors try to copy-paste international strategies without considering local tastes. Know your audience. Understand what excites them and what doesn’t. Distribution is never one-size-fits-all. 4. Marketing Costs Distribution costs money upfront marketing, logistics, prints, promotions. Revenue doesn’t come in immediately, and that delay can sink you if you’re not prepared. Plan properly. Keep track of your spending and always leave room for surprises. Strong cash flow keeps you in the game. 5. Collaborating and Growing in Distribution In distribution, trust opens more doors than hype. You have to be willing to learn from each other, producers, and distributors alike. Both sides need to agree on the strategy and be open about what works and what doesn’t. Mistakes will happen, and that is fine. They are part of the process. What matters is how you recover and grow from them. Approach distribution with humility, foresight, and persistence. That is how you build a career that lasts. Every film is a new chance. And when things don’t go as planned, don’t be afraid to try again. The key is to keep learning always.