So, you’ve got your film made and now you’re deciding between Film Festivals or Putting it Online?
Well, let’s take a look at the benefits of Film Festivals vs Putting Films Online.
There are many reasons why filmmaker should attend Film Festivals, here are just a few:
- Networking: Film Festivals provide a huge resource for filmmakers to find like-minded people in the business as well as audiences that, potentially, come from all over the world.
- Publicity: You’ll find fans and members of the press (Like Film Fervor!) who will write about you, review your film, and interview you about your process to share to their existing audiences. No matter your experience level, you can find new people and talent to help you along your career.
- Awards: Although some Film Festivals offer cash prizes, a more important thing is the laurels and awards. You’ll blow through whatever cash prize you get rather quickly, but the notoriety and fame that comes with getting awards at prestigious festivals is priceless.
- Education: One thing many do not realize about film festivals is the educational opportunities they provide. Many festivals provide workshops, hosted by respected film professionals, that can help you learn new things and be exposed to huge talent.
These are just some of the benefits of attending festivals and getting your films showcased. That said, I do think there are huge benefits to putting your film online and letting people see it. There’s no reason you can’t do both, but I always recommend going to festivals first so you can reap the benefits listed above.
What do you want from a film festival? The exposure? All about the Benjamins? Let us know below!
We’ll be attending festivals and posting behind the scenes video, interviews, distributor watch-lists, and more on our YouTube Channel starting in 2017.