Who Buys Documentaries?

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Who Buys Documentaries?

"Who Buys Documentaries?"

The following question regarding documentary distribution recently popped up in my e-mail box.

Question:

Hi, I am interested in making a number of documentaries on various subjects. I have spoken to some people who are interested in funding the project but they ask me one question I am not sure how to answer: "Who buys documentaries?" Any tips on how to answer this question?

Answer from Desktop Documentaries:

Thank you for your question regarding documentary distribution. That is an excellent question and can be answered in several ways.

Totally depending on the nature of your documentary, here's a potential list of buyers:

Consumers - you could sell directly to the group interested in the documentary. For example, if you make a documentary about frisbies, you could market and sell directly to frisby clubs.

Broadcast Television -- Examples include HBO, A&E or The History Channel, although this is a very tough market. To sell your documentary to a group like this, I recommend submitting your documentary to lots of film festivals where these TV networks have "agents" who attend and pick out documentaries they want to buy. (Just so you know, PBS does not usually purchase documentaries.. but it's a great way to promote your film for DVD sales)

Theater Release -- Another option is a theater release where you have ticket sales. You would have to have a really awesome movie to do this. Again, shop it around at film festivals.

The internet -- you can upload your documentary to Amazon.com.

Keep in mind, sales are directly related to how many people know about your film. So marketing is almost more important than the actual making of the film. You can accomplish that through viral marketing (Facebook, Twitter, e-mail, etc).. also sending out press releases, a publicity campaign, public speaking, etc.

Wondering How To Sell Your Documentary?

With the explosion of online video and VOD (video on demand) options, filmmakers are taking distribution into their own hands and presenting (and selling) their films directly to their audience.

Great Resource To Learn More About DIY Distribution:

Sell Your Movie