If you’re an independent filmmaker, getting your film seen by a large audience can be a daunting task. There are a multitude of strategies you can use to reach potential viewers, and it’s important to measure the results of your efforts in order to optimize for the best returns. In this blog post, we’ll discuss some of the ways you can build large audiences for your independent feature film, including through web sites, social media channels, and YouTube videos. We’ll also discuss different approaches for cinema release, streaming release, and broadcast television.

Online Strategies

#1 Web Site

One of the most effective ways to build a large audience for your film is through a well-designed website. Your website should provide information about your film, including a synopsis, cast and crew bios, and trailers. You should also include links to your social media channels and any other relevant content, such as interviews or behind-the-scenes footage.

#2 Social Media

Social media is another crucial tool for building an audience for your film. Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram are all great platforms for promoting your film and engaging with potential viewers. Be sure to regularly post updates about your film, including trailers, behind-the-scenes photos, and news about upcoming screenings or releases. You can also use social media to run contests or giveaways, which can help to generate buzz and attract new followers.

#3 Pinterest

Pinterest is a particularly good platform for reaching women, as more than 80% of its users are female. By creating a Pinterest account for your film, you can share images and other visual content that will help to promote your film and attract potential viewers. You can also use Pinterest to reach specific demographics by targeting your pins to users who are interested in similar films or genres. Just be sure to regularly update your account with new content, and consider running Pinterest-specific contests or giveaways to help generate buzz and attract new followers.

#4 YouTube

YouTube is another powerful platform for promoting your film. By creating a dedicated channel for your film, you can share trailers, interviews, and other content that will help to build interest and attract viewers. You can also use YouTube to reach specific demographics by targeting your ads to users who are interested in similar films or genres.

Offline Strategies

In addition to these online strategies, there are also a number of offline tactics you can use to build an audience for your film.

Cinema Release

If you’re planning to release your independent feature film in cinemas, it’s important to have a marketing campaign in place to drive people to buy tickets. One key strategy is to match your campaigns to the specific country release dates and locations of your film. This will help to ensure that you’re targeting the right audience at the right time.

In the months leading up to the opening weekend, you should focus on driving people to buy tickets for your film. This can be done through a variety of tactics, including social media promotions, targeted ads, and partnerships with local organizations or businesses. You can also consider offering special incentives, such as discounted tickets or exclusive content, to encourage people to see your film.

A strong opening weekend is crucial for the success of your film, as it can generate momentum and help to build buzz. This is reflected on platforms like BoxOfficeMojo and IMDB, which track box office performance and provide data on the success of individual films. A strong opening weekend can also lead to a larger budget for your next film, as studios and investors are more likely to invest in projects that have proven their appeal to audiences.

Festival Release

Another option is to screen your film at film festivals, which can help to generate buzz and attract industry attention. You can also try to secure a traditional cinema release, which can be a more challenging route but can also result in a wider release and more visibility for your film.

Streaming Release

Streaming platforms like Netflix, Amazon Prime, and Hulu are another option for getting your film seen by a large audience. These platforms have millions of subscribers, and releasing your film on one of them can give you a significant boost in visibility. However, it’s important to keep in mind that streaming platforms are highly competitive, and it can be difficult to get your film picked up by one of them.

Broadcast TV

Finally, you can consider releasing your film on broadcast television. While this option may not be as lucrative as a streaming release, it can still help to get your film in front of a large audience. You can try to secure a deal with a cable network or a local station, or you can try to sell your film to a broadcast syndicator.

Wrapping it Up

Keep in mind that building a large audience for your film is a long-term process that requires ongoing effort and attention. By using a combination of online and offline marketing techniques, and measuring the results of your efforts, you can build a large and engaged audience for your independent feature film.

Clearly there are many different strategies you can use to build an audience for your independent feature film. It can be a complex and challenging process, but there is an easier way: partnering with a marketing agency like Resonant Blue.