Distribution and Exhibition

Further infoKKS

Film distribution has its own unique procedures.

Success or failure of a cinema release determines how the DVD and TV releases will be handled subsequently.

In the international film business, the rights to screen a film are sold in respect of distinct ‘territories’ such as the UK.

Film Distribution in the UK

Most Hollywood films are distributed directly by the studio which financed the film.

In the UK the cinema box office is dominated by a handful of major distributors.

In any year, the 5 major distributors will account for 90% of the box-office rentals.

Film Distribution in the UK

Distributor Number of

Films

Films

UIP (Paramount/ Universal/ UA/MGM)

7 Shrek, Bridget Jones, Shark Tale, Van Helsing, Lemony Snicket, Bourne Supremacy, School of Rock

Warner Bros 4 Harry Potter, Troy, Scooby Doo Too, The Last Samurai

Buena Vista (Disney)

3 The Incredibles, Starsky & Hutch, The Village

20th Century Fox 3 The Day After Tomorrow, I Robot, Dodge-Ball

Sony Pictures 1 Spiderman 2

Independents 2 Passion of the Christ (Icon), Lost in Translation (Momentum)

Top 20 Box Office Films in 2004:

Cinema Chain Number of screens

Odeon/ UCI 930

Cine UK and UGC 780

Vue 580

Showcase 250

Others 1000

The Exhibitors (cinema chains) in 2004:

Only Showcase remains in American hands, but all the other chains are deeply committed to

distributing American films.

A Hollywood blockbuster is released ‘wide’ with one or more prints sent to each multiplex. Typically 400-500 prints, each costing £1000. So, a significant investment.

The wide release depends on blanket promotional and advertising coverage for the first weekend to create a ‘buzz’ about the film.

Free trailer packages and electronic press kits are sent to radio and TV stations and newspapers. Preview screenings for journalists are arranged. Stars give interviews and newspaper and TV advertising guarantees exposure.

Cost – over £1m but rely on opening £2m or more at box office

Typical Practice: Wide Release