Shows
The Movie Marketing & Distribution PodcastBuilding a Sustainable Ecosystem for World Cinema featuring Meret RuggleHow can independent distributors build a sustainable future for world cinema in an era of content saturation and shrinking public support? In this episode, Alex Stolz speaks with Meret Ruggle, Co-head of Trigon Film, the Swiss foundation and distributor that has spent more than three decades championing outstanding films from Latin America, Asia, Africa and Eastern Europe. Meret shares how Trigon has developed a holistic and community-driven model for distribution, combining theatrical releases, educational outreach and its own VoD platform Filmingo to extend the life of its films and connect directly with audiences. T...
2025-11-0443 min
The Movie Marketing & Distribution PodcastHow Independent Films Can Thrive in a Changing Market featuring Jonathan SadlerIndependent filmmakers face a fast-evolving landscape: rising costs, fragmented audiences, and tougher routes to market. Yet with more platforms and opportunities than ever before, smart strategies can still give films the best chance to succeed. In this episode, Alex Stolz speaks with Jonathan Sadler — veteran marketer and author of Film Marketing and Distribution: An Independent Filmmaker's Guide. With over two decades of experience at companies including Universal Pictures, Momentum, Revolver, Warner Music and Arrow Films, Jonathan has worked on everything from Amélie and Lost in Translation to Donnie Darko and The Mummy. Together, they expl...
2025-10-0249 min
The Movie Marketing & Distribution PodcastFrom KNEECAP to FLOW: Inside Curzon's Marketing Playbook featuring Susie BouldIn this episode of the Marketing and Distribution Podcast, host Alex Stolz speaks with Susie Bould, Marketing Director at Curzon, the iconic UK exhibitor, distributor, and streaming platform. Susie shares how Curzon's unique ecosystem and real-time audience data shape its marketing strategy, enabling bold, authentic campaigns that connect deeply with film lovers. She reveals how Curzon successfully shifted its demographic toward a younger audience, the creative tactics behind indie breakouts like Kneecap and Flow, and how agility and authenticity are driving modern film marketing. Susie also speaks candidly about her experience becoming disabled early in...
2025-09-1149 min
The Movie Marketing & Distribution PodcastBringing International Actions Films to the US Market featuring Maxwell RiesbergIn this episode of the Marketing and Distribution Podcast, Alex Stolz is joined by Maxwell Riesberg, founder and CEO of Rascal (RSCL) Films – a bold new theatrical-first studio on a mission to bring international action films the big-screen releases they deserve. With a background that includes award-winning campaigns for A Quiet Place and Bumblebee, Maxwell shares how Rascal aims to become the 'A24 of action cinema' by combining cutting-edge AI dubbing technology, premium marketing, and a community-first approach to distribution. He explains how Rascal is building an identity-driven brand that speaks directly to underserved action fans across th...
2025-07-3138 min
The Movie Marketing & Distribution PodcastDistributors on the Move: Insights from Europa Distribution's Groundbreaking Programme featuring Elin Boijens and Giulia Amadio In this special episode, Alex Stolz is joined by Elin Boijens (Searchers, Netherlands) and Giulia Amadio (BIM Distribuzione, Italy), two participants in Distributors on the Move, Europa Distribution's pioneering professional exchange programme. Together, they reflect on the transformative impact of spending time embedded within each other's companies and exploring the day-to-day realities of film distribution in a different market. Giulia and Elin dive deep into the structural and strategic contrasts between the Italian and Benelux cinema landscapes—from differences in audience behavior, cinema-going habits, and marketing approaches to infrastructure realities, dubbing vs. subtitling preferences, and the role of...
2025-07-1043 min
The Movie Marketing & Distribution PodcastBuilding a New Theatrical Marketplace featuring Jackie BrennemanIn this episode of The Marketing and Distribution Podcast, host Alex Stolz welcomes Jackie Brenneman — a trailblazer in the cinema industry and President & CEO of Attend Theatrical Marketplace, Jackie shares the journey behind ATTEND, the groundbreaking platform she helped launch to empower filmmakers and exhibitors through smarter, more transparent theatrical distribution. A founding partner of The Fithian Group, Jackie brings years of leadership in policy, legal advocacy, and industry innovation. Previously Executive Vice President and General Counsel at the National Association of Theatre Owners (NATO), she played a pivotal role during the pandemic, securing over $16 billion in re...
2025-06-1041 min
The Movie Marketing & Distribution PodcastDecentralising Distribution and Building the 'Shopify for Film' featuring Ana Maria Jipa and Malcolm WoodIn this episode of the Marketing and Distribution Podcast, host Alex Stolz is joined by Ana Maria Jipa and Malcolm Wood, co-founders of Olyn, a new digital platform aiming to redefine how independent films are released and monetized. Drawing on their backgrounds in technology, entrepreneurship, and film production, Ana and Malcolm discuss how Olyn seeks to provide filmmakers with direct-to-consumer tools — enabling them to maintain ownership, access audience data, and control the viewing experience. The conversation covers core platform functionalities, including custom landing pages, geo-blocking, revenue splits, and scarcity-based release strategies. The episode also explores br...
2025-04-2941 min
The Movie Marketing & Distribution PodcastCommunity is the Audience: A New Approach to Independent Film Success featuring Shawn Dawes "Community isn't just the audience—it is the audience. And that shift in thinking is where real change begins." – Shawn Dawes In this episode of the Marketing and Distribution Podcast, Alex Stolz is joined by filmmaker, producer, and platform founder Shawn Dawes, the visionary behind IndieScene—a new SaaS-based platform aiming to transform the independent film ecosystem through transparency, data, and community collaboration. With over 20 years in the creative industries—ranging from directing and development to producing and distribution—Shawn has firsthand experience of the challenges independent filmmakers face. From promising projects that collapsed at the final h...
2025-04-0345 min
The Movie Marketing & Distribution PodcastNavigating the Future of Screen Entertainment featuring Guy BissonIn this episode, Alex Stolz is joined by Guy Bisson, Executive Director at Ampere Analysis, a leading firm in media and entertainment analytics. Guy brings over two decades of expertise in the global TV, film, and entertainment industries, offering unparalleled insights into the transformations reshaping content creation, distribution, and consumption. Together, they dive deep into the challenges and opportunities facing today's entertainment landscape. Guy explores the ongoing impact of streaming, especially in the aftermath of the pandemic boom and the Hollywood strikes. Guy highlights how content investment has leveled off at 75% of its peak, marking a significant s...
2025-03-2043 min
The Movie Marketing & Distribution PodcastCreating Big Screen Experiences for Passionate Fanbases featuring Shannah Miller and Lynne Schmidt"Our goal is to make every theatrical release feel like an event." Lynne Schmidt, SVP Operations and Strategic Partnerships Fathom Entertainment In this episode of the Marketing and Distribution Podcast, host Alex Stolz sits down with Shannah Miller, Vice President of Marketing, and Lynne Schmidt, Senior Vice President of Operations and Strategic Partnerships at Fathom Entertainment. Fathom has long been known as a leader in event cinema, bringing live performances, special screenings, and classic films to theaters worldwide. But as the theatrical landscape evolves, so has Fathom. In this conversation, Shannah and Lynne share how...
2025-03-1142 min
The Movie Marketing & Distribution PodcastThe Future of VOD for Independents featuring Pierre-Alexandre LabelleIn this episode Alex Stolz sits down with Pierre-Alexandre (Alex) Labelle, co-founder of Under the Milky Way, the global digital distribution company helping studios, filmmakers and rights holders bring their films to VOD platforms worldwide. Alex shares his journey in the film industry, from the early days of digital distribution to working with major platforms like Apple, Google, and Amazon. He dives into the industry's evolving landscape, discussing the rise of SVOD, the ongoing relevance of transactional VOD, and the growing impact of AVOD and FAST channels (although cautioning that this may be less than has been claimed!). The conversation...
2025-02-1853 min
The Movie Marketing & Distribution PodcastConic: the story of a new distribution company featuring Jen Davies and Graham Fulton"We want to be a positive force in the ecosystem." Jen Davies In this episode, Alex Stolz speaks with Jen Davies and Graham Fulton, co-founders of Conic, the Glasgow-based film distribution company formed in 2022. They discuss the origins of Conic, their mission to support independent cinema, and the evolving landscape of film distribution. The conversation covers their values, team dynamics, acquisition processes, and the challenges of theatrical releases, all while emphasizing the importance of community and collaboration in the film industry. Jen and Graham discuss the journey of a young film distribution company, highlighting their bidding process...
2025-02-1153 min
The Movie Marketing & Distribution PodcastThe Data Behind Horror featuring Stephen FollowsIn this episode we welcome world leading film researcher Stephen Follows to the show for a deep dive into the data behind the horror genre. With insights fresh from Stephen's new exhaustive exploration of the space, The Horror Movie Report 2.0, we explore the significant increase in horror film production and the numbers behind its profitability. In a conversation that covers the importance of theatrical releases for horror films (and why they are so important for cinemas!) and the demographics of horror audiences, we also look at global trends in horror film production, including in Indonesia and Malaysia. Stephen shares...
2025-01-3051 min
The Movie Marketing & Distribution PodcastHarnessing AI in Hollywood with Tobias Queisser"Data and AI can increase risk taking" Tobias Queisser In this episode we are joined by Tobias Queisser, co-founder and CEO of Cinelytic, the AI-powered platform designed to optimise decision-making across film production and distribution. As perhaps the most controversial - and misunderstood - topic in film and entertainment at this time, AI is often portrayed as a creative destructor but Tobias shares why he believes the technology will actually unlock greater risk taking in the filmmaking process. In the conversation, Tobias discusses the genesis of CineLytic, the pain points in fi...
2025-01-1444 min
The Movie Marketing & Distribution PodcastFilm Festivals, Community and Developing Younger Audiences with Leslie VuchotIn this conversation, Leslie Vuchot, CEO and founder of the Festival Agency joins the show to discuss her journey in the film industry, the importance of film festivals, and the evolving landscape of film distribution. She shares insights on festival-driven success stories of independent films, the health of festivals, and the agency's new direction in building community around cinemas. Vuchot emphasizes the critical role festivals play in launching new talent and films, and her vision for enhancing the circulation of films in the industry with festivals. Finally, Leslie shares her passion for developing younger audiences and reveals how TFA...
2024-12-1233 min
The Movie Marketing & Distribution PodcastKubrick, Castle Rock and the Art of the Trailer Featuring Jim Fredrick Jim Fredrick is a trailer editor, studio marketing executive and film professor - and author of the OPENING WEEKEND: AN INSIDER'S LOOK AT MARKETING HOLLYWOOD'S HITS AND FLOPS. In this conversation, we discuss Jim's career which began in editing trailers and spanned both the studio, independent and vendor sectors. We also hear about Jim's experience in helping launch some of the biggest and most loved films in recent history and hear memorable anecdotes about working with Rob Reiner at Castle Rock Entertainment and his singular experience of travelling to the UK shortly after Stanley Kubrick's death to create the marketing ca...
2024-11-211h 01
The Movie Marketing & Distribution PodcastUnlocking Cinema's Data Advantage featuring Ben Johnson "The film value chain is very disconnected from today's online reality" Ben Johnson, Founder Gruvi In this episode we are joined by Ben Johson, Founder of the digital media agency, Gruvi. In a wide ranging conversation, Ben describes the lightbulb moment that led him to establish a film-specific model and why he believes the current value chain in the sector is out of sync with how audiences make decisions. We also talk about how and why cinemas have a distinct advantage in the film ecosystem (around their audience data) and how they can leverage this through greater c...
2024-11-1455 min
The Movie Marketing & Distribution PodcastThe Changing Landscape in the Nordics featuring Merete Christensen and Thor Sigurjónsson"It's a changing landscape, but people still want to see movies." Thor Sigurjónsson, Scanbox In this episode we meet the leading - and legendary - Nordic distributor, Scanbox Entertainment with their top executives Merete Christensen (COO and Head of Theatrical) and CEO Thor Sigurjónsson. In the conversation we discuss how the Nordic markets are transforming through shifting audience behaviour and technology - and how Scanbox is adroitly adjusting to this landscape. Topics include changing acquisition and releasing models, what is working well in cinemas right now and the company's move into production. In a wide ra...
2024-10-2451 min
The Movie Marketing & Distribution PodcastReinventing Recommendation featuring Luis Perez EndaraLuis Perez Endara is CEO of Gluon Media and Founder of Panoptico.tv, a new online community and recommendation engine for film and TV across Latin America. In this conversation, Luis explains how the current recommendation solutions, from algorithms to peer to peer services, are failing audiences. Drawing from his extensive experience in sales, marketing, distribution and curation, he reveals how Panoptico uses both 'top down' and 'bottom up' recommendation functionality to create a new type of recommendation engine. He also shares how Panoptico is designed to be home for movie lovers and a way for distributors and content...
2024-10-0249 min
ScreenME Podcast#14: Harnessing data and innovation in the film industry. A talk with Alex Stolz (Founder and CEO of Future of Film)In this episode of the ScreenMe podcast, Ulrike Rohn interviews Alex Stolz, the founder and CEO of Future of Film. They discuss the current dynamics in the European film industry, the role of data analytics in connecting films with audiences, and the importance of innovation and entrepreneurship in the industry. Alex also talks about the Future of Film Incubator, which supports filmmakers in developing and commercializing their ideas. The conversation highlights the need for filmmakers to be open-minded, learn new skills, and think about the commercial potential of their projects. Keywordsf...
2024-09-1240 min
The Movie Marketing & Distribution PodcastA New Blueprint for Filmmaker-First Distribution with the Founders of Blue Harbor Entertainment"The current distribution model is broken, and Blue Harbor is here to offer a different approach that benefits both filmmakers and audiences." Mike Messina, co-founder Blue Harbor Entertainment This episode is an insight into the obstacles and opportunities in the current releasing environment in a conversation with the founders of Blue Harbor Entertainment, the new service distribution company. Amanda Sherwin, Mike Messina and Seth Needle are industry veterans with decades of experience between them at the cutting edge of sales, acquisitions and distribution having previously come together as part of the senior leadership of Screen Media. Earlier this year they...
2024-09-0550 min
The Movie Marketing & Distribution PodcastMarina Kosten: Building a Future for Theatrical through Data"Optimising cinema businesses through better data strategies can transform the entire entertainment landscape." Marina Kosten Why the theatrical experience is so critical for the film and entertainment ecosystem and how it can be revitalised through a bold and innovative data-led strategy are some of the key topics explored here with the brilliant Marina Kosten. In the conversation Marina unpacks what first party data, how it can be harnessed and why it is so critical in today's entertainment economy as well as outlining her vision for regenerating the habit of moviegoing across the sector. A senior g...
2024-07-301h 08
The Movie Marketing & Distribution PodcastUrszula Piasecka: the Evolving Role of DistributionUrszula Piasecka is CEO of leading Polish distributor Kino Świat, part of the Studio Canal group. In this conversation we tap into Urszula's nearly 20 years' experience across film and media business, working in film production and distribution, to look ahead to how the role of the dsitributor can evolve. In addition, we gain insights on the centrality of the theatrical experience, how distributors and producers can work more closely, the current state of the Polish market as well as her thoughts on the upcoming blockbuster, Paddington in Peru! For 10 year Urszula was overseeing multi-territory deals and strategising volume packages as Di...
2024-07-1647 min
The Movie Marketing & Distribution PodcastLetterboxd: Building a Global Community of Film Lovers w David LarkinDavid Larkin is Head of Business and Parnerships at Letterboxd, the global social network for grass-roots film discussion and discovery. In this episode we go 'under the hood' of the only film-centric social platform, to understand more about how it has successfully built a loyal community of 14mm+ film fans across the world. This includes how Letterboxd supports targeted film campaigns, understanding different industry-use cases on the site and insight into Letterboxd's big decision about including TV content. In a wide ranging conversation, we also learn more about David's long and varied career as an executive and...
2024-06-2747 min
The Movie Marketing & Distribution PodcastSerge Zabbal on Innovating Distribution in the MENA MarketSerge Zabbal is Busines Director at Empire Entertainment, the 105 year old film production and distribution operation based out of Dubai. Focusing on the MENA region (Middle East and North Africa), Serge oversees all of Empire's English language and Arabic releases across the different markets. This includes the output of Sony Pictures Entertainment, as the studio's official partner for the region. Having had diverse experiences across a multitude of industries for more than 15 years in the Middle East, Serge brings a fresh perspectuve and innovative approach to the film and entertainment space. As well as serving as the...
2024-05-0951 min
The Movie Marketing & Distribution PodcastReimagining Distribution with Avril Speaks and Brandon PurdieIn this special episode of the Market and Distirbution Pdcast, we tap into our Reimagine the Ecosystem series, the series of discussions with leaders on the future of the industry. In this particular session, we addressed the fast evolving field of distribution itself, with Avril Speaks (Distribution Advocates) and Angel Studios' Brandon Purdie. With the distribution landscape having changed so much in recent years, how are studios, creators and labels approaching the market differently? What kind of new mechanisms and strategies are working particularly well and what is now less effective. But beyond tactics and...
2024-05-0947 min
The Movie Marketing & Distribution PodcastBenny Haesebrouck on doing Distribution Differently with MOOOVIn tis episode we explore alternative ways of distirbution with Benny Haesebrouck who is Head of Distirbution at MOOOV, the Belgian non-profit founded more than ten years ago. MOOOV's goal is to show a diverse world both on the big screen and beyond the cinema walls. Their mission to connect people through stories leads them to search all over the world for films and directors that combine artistic quality with relevant content - and bring them to Belgian audiences. In a wide ranging conversation, we learn how MOOOV do a number of things differently to traditional distirbution. This includes the w...
2024-04-0448 min
The Movie Marketing & Distribution PodcastKymberli Frueh: Trafalgar Releasing and the Business and Art of Event CinemaWhat have Taylor Swift, BTS, the National Theatre and Peppa Pig all have in common? One thing, at least, is that they have all been brought to the big screen by the leading event cinema company, Trafalgar Releasing. In this episode we speak with Trafalgar's SVP Programming and Content Acquisitions, Kymberli Frueh to discuss all aspects of the event cinema business - from how content is sourced to what makes a great cinema experience and the future of the theatrical business. From devleoping one night only and limited theatrical programs for event cinema in 2005, Kymberli's career spans t...
2024-03-1431 min
The Movie Marketing & Distribution PodcastMathieu Robinet on Engaging Younger Audiences for Theatrical ReleasesMathieu Robinet is an award-winning film producer and distributor from France. In 2020 he created TANDEM, a film distribution company devoted to up-and-coming filmmakers and innovative marketing strategies. He was involved in the financing and theatrical distribution of over 100 films, working with directors such as Wim Wenders, Ruben Ostlund, Kirill Serebrennikov and Park Chan Wook. In this episode we explore Mathieu's remarkable jounrey of setting up TANDEM during the pandemic, his commitment to theatrical distribution and strategies for bringing in younger audiences. In a wide ranging conversation, we also learn how TANDEM recently scored the most successful French ho...
2024-02-2249 min
The Movie Marketing & Distribution PodcastNikolaj Mathies: Effective Film Promotion on TikTokWith over 1.9 billion users globally, TikTok is the entertainment juggernaut that is impossible to ignore. And in 2023, its users in the UK spent more time on average on the platform than any other video platform - including Netflix. But how can film marketing professionals effecfively leverage TikTok to engage audiences in our releases? Nikolaj Mathies stands out as one of the few marketing professionals who have worked with a diverse array of film distributors across Europe and America to promote their films online. To date, he has contributed to well over 300 theatrical releases in more than 30 different co...
2024-02-1554 min
The Movie Marketing & Distribution PodcastElba McAllister on Distribution in LatAm, Exec Producing with the Streamers and the changing face of International Sales"As a distributor, I've learned that you have to be agile and ready to embrace change" Elba McAllister CEO and Co-Founder Cineplex Elba McAllister is the Co-founder of Cineplex, the Colombia-based Independent film distributor and other countries in Latin America since 1993. In this episode, Eliba discussed her distirbution jouney, the changing face of Colombian distirbution, international sales and how she found herself exec producing content for major streaming platforms. In her 30 years of the film distribution, Elba has succeeded in promoting over 500 titles in Colombia and Internationally in all media (theatrical, video & TV...
2024-02-0144 min
The Movie Marketing & Distribution PodcastBrandon Purdie on the Pay it Forward Triumph of SOUND OF FREEDOMIn 2023, outside of the phenomenon of 'Barbenheimer', one film and release stands out as truly remarkable: SOUND OF FREEDOM. The hard hitting thriller, starring Jim Caviezel and Mira Sorvino, currrently stands at a colossal box office of $184m in the US and Canada and over $220m globallly. In this episode, we meet one of the key architects of this success, Angel Studios' EVP Global Theatrical Distribution, Brandon Purdie. In this conversation, Brandon sheds light on Angel Studios' unique model for acquistions and approach to distirbution, including how the innovative 'Pay it Forward' model - so key to the film's...
2023-12-2155 min
The Movie Marketing & Distribution PodcastReimagine the Greenlight with Ted Hope, irina Albita and Anjali MidhaIn an increasingly competitive and congested distribution marketplace, better and more informed decision making upstream is increasingly essential. However, formulaic and algorithmically influenced content continues to enter the system, often leaving audiences cold. Is there a better way? How can we support intuitive creativity with robust data analytics, audience insights and distribution intelligence? What are the tools, resources and information that can underpin more effective commissioning or investment decisions? Where are the information blindspots and how can filmmakers formulate a more robust investment opportunity? How can we create more inclusiveness in the greenlight process? These...
2023-12-0756 min
The Movie Marketing & Distribution PodcastEnrique Costa on Elastica, Unlocking New Audiences and the Importance of Building a BrandEnrique Costa is CEO of the Spanish production and distribution company Elastica Films, which he co founded In 2021 together with María Zamora. In a little over 2 years the company has built a reputation for dynamic markeing and savvy acquisitons, releasing the last 2 Palm D'or Winners "Triangle of Sadness" and "Anatomy of a Fall" as well as prestige titles such as "Drive my Car," "The Worst Person in the World", "Aftersun" and more. In this conversation, Enrique talks about the jounrey of establishing Elastica, his principles on marketing (and poster design), acquistion strategies and techniques fo...
2023-11-3052 min
The Movie Marketing & Distribution PodcastReimagining Film FestivalsWhere do film festivals stand in a transformed and often fragmented film landscape? What is the underlying value that they can provide and how can we measure and capture that value? In a film ecosystem that often feels siloed, how can festivals become more robust and connected to other parts of the value chain, particularly with distribution? Is there an argument for festivals to work across the year to deliver that value and are there innovative business models or funding venues that can help sustain this activity? These are some of the topics that our expert panel...
2023-11-1459 min
The Movie Marketing & Distribution PodcastCo-creating Entertainment with Brands: Matt Rotondo of Sugar23 on Transforming the Production ProcessIn this episode we welcome to the show Matt Rotondo, Head of Brand Division at Sugar23. Matt reveals how Sugar23 are shaking up the entertainment space through an innovative co-creation process with brands from the earliest deevelopment stages. With extensive experience in advertising and brand partnerships, Matt shares insights into how he is helping brands to strategically leverage entertainment to impact business positively - and create exciting new projects. Traversing the development of projects like scripted comedies, and the distribution process, the converstion delves into the power of brand partnerships, with Matt sharing success stories of brands like Mattel...
2023-10-2552 min
The Movie Marketing & Distribution PodcastSarah Mosses on Creating Impact and Building Optimised Systems in DistributionIn this podcast episode, Sarah Mosses, the founder and CEO of Together Films, shares her unique perspective on film marketing and distribution. Sarah discusses her Impact based approach to film distribution, using films as a tool for community mobilization, citing her strategy of rallying passionate individuals, partnering with NGOs and influential platforms to create impactful releases. Sarah also discusses the evolution and growth of Together Films and how they managed to grow during the Pandemic as well as highlighting how efficient systems enable them to operate on a large scale with a small team. Sarah al...
2023-09-0745 min
The Movie Marketing & Distribution PodcastMaking Data-Driven Decisions in Entertainment with Anjali Midha"Marketing is about breaking through to audiences ... but also inspiring enthusiasm so that everyone else also finds out about your content, because marketing dollars can really only go so far." Anjali Midha co-founder and CEO of Diesel Labs. Anjali Midha, an entrepreneur with a passion for driving innovation in media and marketing analytics. She is the co-founder & CEO of Diesel Labs, a content analytics company that addresses the toughest questions facing media companies today. Before starting Diesel Labs, she was the Global Director of Media Research at Twitter where she developed the 'playbook' for television - illuminating...
2023-07-0433 min
The Movie Marketing & Distribution PodcastTega Williams on Building Brand Activations in Movie Marketing"For FastX, we wanted to do something different... we created an unforgettable experience that brought people to the cinema and brought audiences to the brands. It's giving value to everyone in the whole system." Tega Williams Tega Williams Uwagho is Marketing Manager for Silverbird Film Distribution (SFD). Based in Lagos, Nigeria, SFD holds the exclusive rights to distribute Universal and Paramount Pictures titles in West Africa. Tega has over eight years working experience in Marketing, Public relation and Event activation earned Diploma in Digital marketing from Team7Project academy Lagos. Project Management professionals (PMP) a graduate of st...
2023-06-2030 min
The Movie Marketing & Distribution PodcastInnovating the Theatrical Experience with Thaddeus BouchardIn this episode, Thaddeus Bouchard, president of Screendollars, discusses the evolution of movie theatre advertising and how the industry is navigating the current movie consuming landscape. Providing a compelling overview of the industry's dramatic last few years - and an insightful analysis of its current status, Thaddeus identifies the challenges and opportunities facing today's movie theaters highlights the crucial role of marketing in exhibition. Drawing from his experience working with theatres across across North America as well as a rich family history in the industry, Thadddeus also outlines how cinemas can enhance the customer experience and attract new audiences...
2023-06-0847 min
The Movie Marketing & Distribution PodcastEduardo Escudero on Innovation, FAST Channels and 'Reaching the Ocean'Eduardo Escudero the founding partner and business manager of A Contracorriente Films, a Spanish leading independent distribution and production company, which manages also 4 cinemas in Madrid and Barcelona and its own SVOD platform Acontra+. A Contracorriente Films also has 2 x Cinema FAST channels. Eduardo graduated from the University of Barcelona with a degree in Law and an MBA in Audiovisual Business Management from Ramon Llull University. From 1998 to 2000, he was Responsible for Business Affairs at Filmax. From 2001 to 2004, he worked at DeAPlaneta, first as Head of Business affairs and then as Head of TV Sales. He was...
2023-05-1654 min
The Movie Marketing & Distribution PodcastChristie Marchese: Building Community, Unlocking new Screening Spaces and the Power of Impact DistributionChristie Marchese is the founder and CEO of Kinema, a social cinema platform building a world-wide network of screening hosts, filmmakers, and filmgoers. Under her helm, the company raised a $2M seed round led by Kindred Ventures and is actively expanding access to engaging film and effectively eliminating theater deserts. Prior to launching Kinema, Marchese founded a consulting practice that turned into the leading impact agency Picture Motion, and served as CEO for 9 years generating over $10M in revenue and boasting a client roster that included award-winning filmmakers, major studios & streamers, brands and foundations. There she led a...
2023-05-0242 min
The Movie Marketing & Distribution PodcastNoortje van der Sande on the Hybrid Consumer and the Intersection of Online and In-Cinema ExperiencesIn this episode, Noortje van der Sande, founder of the pioneering virtual cinema platform Picl.nl, discusses the innovative ways in which movie marketing and distribution are being transformed. Noortje shares insights into the development of Picl, which allows cinemas to offer films online simultaneously with their theatrical releases. Noortje delves into the concept of the "hybrid consumer" and reveals research that the same people often watch movies both online and in cinemas, making virtual cinema a valuable tool for fostering loyalty among customers. We also explore how offering an online component to in-cinema can enhance the...
2023-04-0638 min
The Movie Marketing & Distribution PodcastBreaking Boundaries in Film Festivals: Algirdas Ramaška on Innovation, Adaptation, and Audience ConnectionIn this episode, Algirdas Ramaška, CEO of the Vilnius Film Festival and Kino Pavasaris Distribution, discusses the festival's incredible journey, including overcoming COVID-19 shutdowns, adapting with innovative approaches, and maintaining a deep connection to their audience. Algirdas shares how the Vilnius Film Festival has survived and thrived by adapting to unique circumstances, such as hosting film screenings in hotel rooms and setting up drive-in cinemas at an airport. The conversation also covers the importance of creativity in creating a successful film festival experience, connecting film festival screenings and distribution, and the need for generational change in the film i...
2023-03-2349 min
The Movie Marketing & Distribution PodcastTilane Jones on Leaning into CommunityTilane Jones is the President of ARRAY, the multi-platform arts and social impact collective dedicated to narrative change founded by filmmaker Ava DuVernay in 2011. Jones leads ARRAY Alliance, the non-profit group, as well as programming and production hub ARRAY Creative Campus. She continues to oversee ARRAY Releasing, the company's film distribution arm, where she is responsible for the acquisition, booking and marketing of more than 40 independent feature films. Jones was recently honored with the Slamdance Founders Award, the film festival's highest accolade. She is the fifth recipient and first woman and person of color to receive the award which...
2023-03-0945 min
The Movie Marketing & Distribution PodcastKate Gerova and Mandy Kean on the Elevated Customer ExperienceMandy Kean is Founder + CEO of Mustard Studio Pioneer of cinema's wow factor, Founder & CEO Mandy Kean, knows about personalised experiences. Previously International Director of Cinema for Soho House & Co, including the world-renowned Electric Cinema brand, Mandy is well versed in the value of elevated hospitality and cinema. Her approach and vision were echoed in her international operations from Berlin to Hong Kong ensuring complete consistency from brand to delivery. As a creative producer of sensory and visual events, she is also the Immersive Cinema Director for Dirty Soup, trailblazers in creating content that will s...
2023-02-1645 min
The Movie Marketing & Distribution PodcastEmma Jamieson on Embracing New Marketing ChannelsEmma Jamieson is a freelancer marketing and social media consultant specialising in film, creative arts and hospitality. Emma has been a marketeer for over 12 years, working across both hospitality and tourism, luxury brands and entertainments sectors for PR agency PRCo, PPHE Hotel Group, Merlin Entertainments amongst others. Since 2020 Emma has pivoted to film - as a self-confessed lifelong movie-nerd, bringing her knowledge, experience and fresh ideas to the industry and starting her own freelance consultancy full-time in 2022. She is Head of Marketing for the UK-wide French Film Festival and for the past year she has...
2023-01-2636 min2023-01-1238 minThe Movie Marketing & Distribution PodcastJohn Donnelly on the Changing Landscape in ExhibitionJohn Donnelly has 32 years of experience in the cinema industry. He launched the first UCI Cinemas multiplexes in Ireland in the 1990s before moving to Poland to establish multiplexes under the Multikino brand as Managing Director. In 2004, he became Managing Director of UCI Kinowelt in Germany heading up the turnaround of the company's operations in Germany. Following the acquisition of UCI/Odeon by Terra Firma, John moved to Spain as Operations Director for the group responsible for the expansion of the company in Spain, Italy, Portugal, Austria, and Germany, opening and acquiring 54...
2022-12-1540 minThe Movie Marketing & Distribution PodcastNikki Stier Justice on Building Brand Communities for Films Nikki Stier Justice is an independent producer and seasoned entertainment executive with a background in film production and distribution. In 2014, she moved to start-up production company Good Deed Entertainment (GDE), where she helped grow the company into a multi-million dollar studio. As Chief Operating Officer she oversaw development, financing, production, distribution, corporate branding and marketing on a slate of 7-10 releases a year. As Head of Distribution for Buffalo 8, Justice helps to champion diverse voices and support the independent filmmaking community. Justice also teaches at UConn in the Digital Media & Design Department.
2022-11-2249 minThe Movie Marketing & Distribution PodcastMichael Matrenza on Marketing, Madman and the Evolving Market in OzMichael Matrenza is a senior marketer with over fourteen years of experience working in distribution in Australia. Having previously worked at Roadshow Films and on Melbourne International Film Festival, Michael has worked in the marketing team at Madman Entertainment since 2011, currently heading up marketing for the business across theatrical, home entertainment and streaming platform DocPlay. With a passion for collaborating with local filmmaking teams to define audience strategies and finding local audience for international cinema, some of Michael's favourite campaigns include High Ground, Nitram, Parasite, Ali's Wedding, That Sugar Film, The Death of Stalin, Searching for Sugar Man an...
2022-11-1042 minThe Movie Marketing & Distribution PodcastPatrick O'Neill on the Irish Market and Unlocking New TalentPatrick O'Neill is Founder and Managing Director of Wildcard, Ireland's leading film distributor working across Theatrical, Video on Demand, and TV in Ireland and the UK. Wildcard projects include The Young Offenders, Bobby Sands: 66 Days, Cardboard Gangsters, Black 47, The Hole in the Ground, Wolfwalkers, and Deadly Cuts. Wildcard regularly manage Irish distribution campaigns on behalf of UK Distributors and Platforms, with clients including Amazon, Altitude, Apple, Netflix, and Vertigo. Patrick's Executive Producer film credits include The Hole in the Ground, Black 47, Extra Ordinary, Redemption of a Rogue, and KATIE, and he is Co-Producer on Crock of Gold...
2022-10-2736 minThe Movie Marketing & Distribution PodcastDorothee Pfistner on the Art of AcquisitionsDorothee Pfistner spearheads acquisitions, TV sales as well as distribution strategies at Neue Visionen Filmverleih since 2014, a leading independent Berlin based film distributor, after several years at France's production and sales outfit MK2. Neue Visionen was founded in 1997 by Torsten Frehse and Wulf Sörgel and has been under the joint management of Torsten Frehse and Sylvia Müller since 2017. We bring an average of 14 first showings to the big screen every year. Neue Visionen emerges from a collective cinema enterprise. The first film releases by Neue Vision after it was founded in 1997 included a revival of the surrealist film "Blac...
2022-10-0650 minThe Movie Marketing & Distribution PodcastNick Camacho on Building a Distribution BrandFor seven years Nicholas Camacho has been director of marketing for the boutique distributor Oscilloscope Laboratories and has worked on theatrical, VOD, and home video releases for dozens of acclaimed and cult favorite films including Embrace of the Serpent, Kedi, The Love Witch, Buzzard, and Saint Frances. His branding and film marketing efforts aim to position Oscilloscope as an outspoken champion of the underdog, both cinematically and culturally.
2022-09-2242 minThe Movie Marketing & Distribution PodcastRoxanne Avent Taylor on Building Audiences from the Ground UpRoxanne Avent Taylor is emerging as one of Hollywood's most prolific and successful independent producers as well as the driving force behind several social justice and youth advocacy initiatives. As co-founder of Hidden Empire Film Group with husband director Deon Taylor, Ms. Taylor has developed, packaged and produced an impressive slate of films. Her most recent, Lionsgate's "Fatale," stars two-time Academy Award® winner Hilary Swank and Golden Globe® nominee Michael Ealy is currently a box office leader while simultaneously steaming up PVOD streaming platforms. Additional theatrically releases include Sony Pictures' "Black and Blue" starring Academy Award no...
2022-09-0844 minThe Movie Marketing & Distribution PodcastNiels Alberg: bringing audience insight into movie developmentNiels Alberg is CEO and co-founder of PUBLIKUM.io. For the past 20 years, Niels has worked in applied research, strategy and creative business development. Niels specializes in designing innovative research methods for a large number of clients in projects that combine human insight and business strategy with the goal of developing new, creative connections between companies, organisations and people. Niels holds a Master's Degree in Sociology from the University of Copenhagen.
2022-08-1843 minThe Movie Marketing & Distribution PodcastTyler DiNapoli on the Marketing Funnel for Independent FilmDiNapoli serves as President of Marketing for Bleecker Street where he oversees media, research and brand strategy for the NYC based film studio. He has been with the company since its inception and worked on 50+ Bleecker Street films including: THE ASSISTANT, LOGAN LUCKY, HOTEL MUMBAI, CAPTAIN FANTASTIC (Academy Award Nominated), DISOBEDIENCE, TRUMBO (Academy Award Nominated), LEAVE NO TRACE and most recently, MR MALCOLM'S LIST. Prior to Bleecker Street, Tyler was Vice President of Advertising & Field Marketing at Focus Features and oversaw teams who conceptualized, created, and executed on the positioning and promotion of Focus films across all v...
2022-07-2746 minThe Movie Marketing & Distribution PodcastBill Guentzler on Acquiring Titles for a Global AudiencesBill Guentzler joined Gravitas Ventures as Senior Director of Acquisitions in 2021. After spending a summer studying in Berlin in 1998, Bill joined the Cleveland International Film Festival as an intern and grew with the organization, ultimately being named Artistic Director in 2005, a position he held for 15 years. During his time at CIFF, he was part of the team making the festival one of the largest and most well-respected film festivals in the US and one of the first in the world to transition to an online format in 2020. In his brief hiatus from the film industry, he worked for Medworks...
2022-07-1445 minThe Movie Marketing & Distribution PodcastDavid Kapur on How to Grow GenZ Audiences for FilmStarting out with BA Hon's in both art and business David has established a unique career & network combining entrepreneurialism with creativity. Excelling in product creation and trend spotting within film and cinema. David is currently a Barbican Trust board member and co-founder of award winning agency elevenfiftyfive. Career highlights include key roles in the development of iconic Orange Wednesday & Secret Cinema as well as creating industry wide Virgin Media Shorts, E4 Slackers Club, ourscreen and recently BFI & National Lottery backed MASSIVE Cinema: https://www.massive-cinema.com/about
2022-06-3041 minThe Movie Marketing & Distribution PodcastSanne Junker Pedersen: Bringing Filmmakers Closer to the AudienceSanne Juncker Pedersen is Head of the initiative ´Closer to the Audience´ launched by The Danish Film Institute in 2020. Backed by the funding scheme AudienceFocus she has worked closely with the Danish film industry and new partners to create innovation and progress within the field of audience research and audience awareness in development stage and pre-production. The Danish Film Institute has so far aided 35 projects, which among other things have studied audiences' perspectives, feelings, opinions and considerations in relation to Danish films in development or pre-production. In December 2021, she was also behind the launch of a new knowledge sh...
2022-06-1451 min
The Movie Marketing & Distribution PodcastWomen Innovators in Film LIVE from Cannes '22Recorded live on stage at the Cannes Film Festival 2022, this special conversation features a stellar lineup of senior leaders from national film organisations from across the world: Kjersti Mo, Director of the Norwegian Film Institute (NFI) Teresa McGrane, Deputy Chief Executive at Screen Ireland Francesca Accinelli, VP Promotion, Communications & International Relations at Telefilm Canada Annette Novak, CEO at Swedish Film Institute (SFI) In a wide ranging conversation, the guests discuss how film can respond to an entertainment ecosystem massively disrupted and transformed in recent years - and consider how...
2022-05-3147 minThe Movie Marketing & Distribution PodcastMark Hirzberger-Taylor on Bringing Classic Films back to CinemasWith over 25 years' experience, Mark Hirzberger-Taylor has worked for major studios including Paramount, Universal, Disney and MGM in territories as varied as Austria, Indonesia and Turkey. Since March 2019 Mark is CEO of Park Circus Group, a worldwide film distributor and sales agent representing all major Hollywood and British studios with offices in Glasgow, London, LA and Paris. Mark is also a member of the project commission for the Austrian Film Institute
2022-05-1037 minThe Movie Marketing & Distribution PodcastThe Changing Face of US Distribution with James Shapiro"Especially in the independent space, the most successful distributors are the ones that have a data-driven approach" James Shapiro, Executive Vice President, US Distribution XYZ Films James Emanuel Shapiro is an entertainment executive veteran for twenty years and has been the COO of both Drafthouse Films and NEON where we helped build both distribution companies from the ground up. He's worked on several academy award campaigns including BULLHEAD, THE ACT OF KILLING, THE LOOK OF SILENCE, and I, TONYA. He most recently started the analytics department and helped build the booking department at the Alamo Drafthouse. He's...
2022-04-2149 minThe Movie Marketing & Distribution PodcastStudio Canal CEO Alex Hamilton on Evolving Release PatternsAlex was President, International, Film and Managing Director of Entertainment One UK. Since joining eOne in 2008, Alex spearheaded eOne UK's film business, with full overall responsibility for acquiring and exploiting through all media an extensive range of feature films, including Twilight, 12 Years a Slave, Dallas Buyers Club, Stan & Ollie and Green Book.With his vast industry experience and passion for film, Alex is the perfect fit to manage STUDIOCANAL UK and to further develop our operations in the UK, a key territory for STUDIOCANAL.
2022-04-0747 minThe Movie Marketing & Distribution PodcastInnovating Distribution in West Africa with Moses BabatopeMoses Babatope has over 20 years of experience in cinema operations management, film production and film distribution, gained from several locations around the world, including the UK and Nigeria. He is currently the deputy managing director of Filmhouse Group and Managing Director of FilmOne Entertainment, Nigeria. FilmOne Entertainment and Filmhouse Cinemas have a combined workforce of over 500 employees and generated an annual turnover of $11m in 2019. Filmhouse is the largest cinema chain in west Africa and partners with cinema premium format companies – IMAX, Mediation (MX4D) and DBOX. FilmOne Entertainment is the fastest-growing studio-styled organization and leading film distributor in wes...
2022-03-2346 minThe Movie Marketing & Distribution PodcastAvtar Panesar on launching Bollywood titles to a global marketAvtar Panesar is VP Special Projects at Yash Raj Films and an industry veteran with rare experience of helming international film and home entertainment markets for Indian cinema overseas. He has developed sustainable relationships in the complex space of international film distribution and contributed towards building the YRF brand both within the diaspora as well as non-traditional markets across the globe. Since 1997, Avtar has gradually seeded and developed inroads in film, home video and music markets in challenging international markets like UK and UAE as well as others. Using his previous professional learnings, he spearheaded music publishing, design and print...
2022-03-1044 minThe Movie Marketing & Distribution PodcastNick Savva on how to successfully launch content on VODNick Savva is the General Manager for Giant Pictures, a digital distribution label placing movies, documentaries and episodic TV on VOD and streaming platforms in North America and worldwide. Based in New York, Nick began his film career at BBC Films in his native London and later worked at Tribeca Films. He has specialized in digital distribution for independent movies and documentaries for the past 20 years. The company also has established itself as a trusted digital partner for multiple indie labels, including Drafthouse Films, Tribeca Film Festival, Topic Studios, Participant Media and Abramorama. Giant Pictures has more than...
2022-02-2446 min
The Movie Marketing & Distribution PodcastLia Devlin examines audience behaviour with Alex StolzLia Devlin is Managing Director of Altitude Film Distribution and has been with the company since its inception in 2014 releasing over 150 films ranging from the Academy and BAFTA Award Winners MOONLIGHT, ROCKS, MINARI, 20 FEET FROM STARDOM, AMY and critically acclaimed THE FLORIDA PROJECT, DIEGO MARADONA, LADY MACBETH and more. Prior to that Lia specialised in Marketing for both independent and studio films. She was Marketing Director at leading independent distributor Momentum Pictures for 7 years, integral to breaking out a number of foreign and arthouse films and beating British box office records for others.
2022-02-1042 min
The Movie Marketing & Distribution PodcastKevin Goetz discusses how films are influenced by audiences and moreNicknamed "the doctor of audience-ology," Kevin Goetz has been at the center of what Hollywood calls the movie research industry for more than thirty years. His firm, Screen Engine/ASI, conducts research for a majority of all movies that are widely released in America and around the world. With decades of experience, Goetz has worked alongside all of the major film studio chiefs, network and streaming platform executives, and production company decision-makers. The Los Angeles Times Magazine counted him as one of the 100 most powerful and influential people in Southern California.
2022-01-2445 min
The Movie Marketing & Distribution PodcastThe importance of building an audience base with Karol Martesko-FensterKarol is an Austrian-born American entrepreneur and media industry innovator with a broad motion picture, Internet, blockchain, broadcast, publishing and event backgrounds. He has produced over a dozen award-winning films and his career spans two decades including leadership in the American independent film industry. Karol is Partner & COO of global media distribution and marketing company Abramorama and Chief Content Officer of Thought Engine Partners. Karol was the President of Film for Michael Cohl's S2BN Entertainment, EVP of Film & Animation at Babel Networks, President/Publisher of Silicon Alley Reporter, and Head of Film at Chris Blackwell's Palm Pictures. Karol...
2022-01-1345 minThe Movie Marketing & Distribution PodcastDiscussing movie distribution with Jakob AbrahamssonJakob Abrahamsson is coowner and CEO of Nordic and Baltic upmarket distributor NonStop Entertainment and Bio & Bistro Capitol, an Electric/Everyman style cinema in Stockholm. He is an alumni of Inside Pictures and serves on the board of the Swedish Distributor's Association. He has a background as a freelance writer and programmer for the Stockholm Int Film Festival. NonStop Entertainment acquires all rights for Nordics and Baltics and operates in the following different areas: Upmarket releases for cinemas such as The Father, Pig and Tove. Documentaries such as The Dissident, Amazing Grace and Yung Lean – in your he...
2021-12-0242 min
The Movie Marketing & Distribution Podcast'The huge threat to online film marketing ', a conversation with Jake Garriock'Things that are hits are big hits now because everyone is talking about them on social media - the spread of information is quicker, it snowballs', states Jake, Head of Distribution Strategy and Group Publicity at Curzon, during a new podcast encounter with Alex Stolz. Jake Garriock joined Curzon in 2008, as Head of Distribution Strategy and Group Publicity, leading numerous in-house PR and awards campaigns. Now responsible for publicity across the group and strategic rollout of distribution titles.
2021-12-0239 min
The Movie Marketing & Distribution PodcastGetting that 'cultural hype', a conversation with Eve Gabereau"People still want to go to the cinema, but they don't have the sense of urgency with films...so how do you get that cultural hype?', shares Eve Gabereau, Chief Executive Officer of Modern Films, during the session with Alex Stolz.
2021-12-0249 min
The Movie Marketing & Distribution PodcastIndie films & the 'traditional model' ?, with Delphine Lievens'Pre-pandemic indie films were moving away from the traditional model but the pandemic has accelerated it so studios are using different streams as well', says Delphine Lievens Head of Distribution at Bohemia Media, a UK based distribution company that focuses their output on diverse stories and uplifting marginalised voices. Delphine Lievens is Head of Distribution at Bohemia Media, a UK based distribution company that focuses their output on diverse stories and uplifting marginalised voices. She joins Bohemia as they prepare to release Iris Prize Best Feature winner REBEL DYKES, and Berlinale 2021 selection BLISS (GLÜCK). Previously she h...
2021-12-0233 min
Future of Film Podcast42. The Future of Film MarketingWhat is the future of film marketing? This episode provides answers with an expert panel of guest speakers from film, tech and entertainment.
Some of the topics we cover in the conversation include:
- digital marketing strategies
- developing a direct to consumer strategy
- how to test your digital marketing's effectiveness and measure attribution
- what we film learn from other industries such as games and retail
- launching film as a digital product
- the impact of Covid on film marketing
This episode originates from the usheru Future of Film Marketing Series and includes the following speakers:
Catherine...
2020-07-2339 min
Future of Film Podcast40. Can Tech Startups Save the Film Industry?Can tech save the film industry? That's the question posed to three tech founders in this special episode of Film Disruptors, recorded live at the 2020 Berlin Film Festival. Nadira Azermai of Scriptbook, Maria Tanjala of Film Chain and usheru's Catherine Downes discuss their growing businesses and how they are bringing innovative solutions to film development, finance and distribution.
This episode was produced during the 21st edition of the FilmTech Meetup Berlin, in collaboration with Filmtech Office www.filmtechoffice.com
and EFM Horizon https://www.efm-berlinale.de/en/horizon/home/horizon, the European Film Market's platform focusing on the future of...
2020-04-151h 13
The Innovation ShowUsherU Founder Ollie Fegan shares his storyFrom his experience with shuttering Tempster to his new venture. UsherU Founder Ollie Fegan shares his story.
2016-10-2919 min
The Innovation ShowEP 8 - Mike Feinberg, KIPP, Pointy Founders Charles Bibby & Mark Cummins, UsherU Founder Ollie FeganEpisode 8 - Mike Feinberg, co-founder of KIPP on the founding of KIPP, on diversity in education and building grit in children. Pointy Founders Charles Bibby & Mark Cummins on the building of Pointy. UsherU Founder Alex Fegan shares his story.
2016-10-2700 min