Buzz
The filming process is complete, the editing is done, and now it's time to release your movie. But how can you ensure that people will attend the screening? By initiating early promotional efforts and generating excitement among fans, you can create anticipation for your film even before its release. Consider employing one or more of these strategies to promote your movie and inform the public about your new and thrilling project.
Steps
Develop a dedicated website for the movie.
Consolidate all essential movie information into one accessible location. Establish a webpage containing the movie trailer, posters, release date, and any other pertinent details for your audience. Additionally, offer the option for visitors to subscribe to a newsletter to receive updates on your film and future endeavors.
- To achieve a highly professional website appearance, consider hiring a web designer if it fits within your budget.
- If you lack the confidence to build a website from scratch, explore utilizing templates provided by platforms like Wix or Weebly.
Establish social media profiles.
Utilize platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, YouTube, and TikTok. Share exclusive behind-the-scenes content, movie posters, and updates related to the filmmaking journey. If feasible, allocate funds for social media advertising to broaden your reach.
- Incorporate relevant hashtags to enhance the visibility of your posts. Examples include: #moviepromo, #studentfilm, or genre-specific hashtags like #romcom and #horrormovie.
- Expand your social media presence by encouraging friends and family to engage with and share your content.
Create a captivating movie poster.
Ensure instant recognition of your movie through its poster. Collaborate with a graphic designer or illustrator to craft a poster featuring the movie title, imagery, and release date. Distribute physical copies or opt for digital dissemination to raise awareness about your film.
- Display posters at local cinemas, cafes, libraries, and nearby universities.
- Alternatively, showcase the poster on your website, social media profiles, and newsletters.
- Emphasize the movie title prominently for enhanced visibility.
Maintain an online journal and share it with your audience.
Engage your audience by documenting the movie production journey. As the movie release date approaches, share excerpts from your journal on your website or social media platforms. Discuss aspects such as casting decisions, prop creation, behind-the-scenes footage, and hidden surprises within the movie.
- Many directors unveil their journals prior to the movie premiere to stimulate discussion.
- Despite its traditional appeal, audiences relish glimpses behind the scenes.
Distribute a newsletter.
Keep your loyal supporters informed about release dates and teaser updates. Encourage visitors to your website or social media profiles to subscribe and provide their email addresses. Aim to dispatch a newsletter approximately once a week to maintain your fans' interest.
- Incentivize newsletter sign-ups by offering exclusive early access or streaming dates.
- Incorporate exclusive previews and behind-the-scenes content to sustain interest in your movie.
Compose a press release.
Approach your local newspaper to feature a story about your movie. If they agree, craft a compelling press release with an attention-grabbing headline and comprehensive movie details. For instance:
- “Exploration of societal norms set to premiere on August 3rd. Debut filmmaker Alexandra Hecke will unveil her inaugural project titled “In the Winter” next month. This touching narrative delves into the dynamic between humanity and the societal structures we inhabit.”
- Aim for a press release length of 3 to 5 paragraphs, prioritizing essential information like release dates and the movie title in the opening paragraph.
- If you're a student, consider approaching your school's newspaper for potential publication of your press release.
Submit your film to an online platform for student filmmakers.
Explore film platforms if you're an emerging or student filmmaker. Once accepted, these platforms assist in promoting and distributing your film online. Submit your film along with a brief description of yourself and your filmmaking journey.
- Most platforms charge an entry fee of approximately $75.
- Consider platforms such as WithoutABox, Short-Filmz.com, IndieReign, and Distribber.
Unveil a teaser.
Introduce your film's ambiance with a 15 to 20-second snippet. Avoid revealing plot details (reserve those for the trailer), but provide insight into the characters and overall atmosphere of your film. Create multiple teasers to build anticipation for your movie!
- For instance, a teaser for a Spider-Man movie might showcase Spider-Man swinging through New York to confront the main antagonist.
- A romantic drama teaser could focus on the two main characters, featuring moments of laughter and tears.
- Share teasers on your website or social media platforms, if available.
Craft a trailer.
Outline the main storyline of your movie to your audience. Craft a trailer lasting from 30 seconds to 2 minutes, focusing on introducing the central plot without revealing too much. Release your trailer a few months prior to the movie's debut.
- For instance, if your movie revolves around a band, consider opening the trailer with a scene of them performing onstage, followed by shots of band members conversing offstage. To convey conflict or struggle, depict members engaging in a heated argument or walking off in frustration.
- Showcase your trailer on your movie's website and across any active social media platforms.
- Consider creating multiple trailer versions to heighten anticipation among viewers.
Advertise at a film festival.
Participate in film festivals to access a wide audience. Submit your movie online for an opportunity to gain exposure on the big screen and benefit from free publicity.
- Sundance, Cannes Film Festival, and Clermont Film Festival are prestigious international events worth considering. Additionally, explore local festivals in your area for further submission opportunities.
- Each film festival adheres to its own set of categories and regulations, so ensure to review them online prior to submission.
Pointers
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Encourage your acquaintances to spread word-of-mouth about your movie to their social circles.
