VCF Q&A with Distributor REP ~ Page Ostrow of Ostrow & Company ~

Let's TALK Distribution ~ Q&A with Page Ostrow of Ostrow & Company Distribution REP ~ Interviewed by Maria Marcus

VCF ~ When do you know a film has potential?

PAGE ~ 
We know a film has/doesn't have potential when it is screened by our acquisitions execs prior to the initial conference call. After the call, Page Ostrow and the board will make the final decision on whether to represent the film or not.

VCF ~ What are the challenges that filmmakers face today in terms of getting distribution?

Page ~
1. Filmmakers generally have challenges due to their high
expectations. Some filmmakers have an unrealistic belief that their film can garner a theatrical release next to big studio films with A-list stars like Brad Pitt and Tom Cruise. They are unaware of the challenges/money that releasing on this platform will encounter. Not to mention, that only some films can actually bring people into the seats at the local multiplex.

2. Filmmakers generally are unaware of the challenges that come with signing with distributors. They are unaware of the nuances of negotiating with distributors. Distributors generally buy product at the lowest possible rate.Filmmakers do not know their high/low negotiating point which causes them to lose money in a final deal.

VCF ~ Why should a Producer consider a Producer's Rep?
Page ~
1. We work for/with the filmmaker(s) and the film to get the best deal possible from the most platforms that can garner income. However, we never outright own the film. The filmmaker always retains ownership of their film and makes all the final decisions.

2. We track and collect for the life of the film and we have enough leverage with distributors to do this.

3. We work with the filmmaker to get the best, most appealing package to sell the film - from the synopsis to the logline to the poster and the website.

VCF ~ Do you have Distributors that you have often dealt with on a regular basis?
Page ~
Yes, most of the distributors deal with us on a regular basis and Page knows Presidents and VP's of the networks and distributors personally (she often has lunch with them).

VCF ~ What kind of strategy do you use to promote a film?
Page ~
1. Once a filmmaker retains us, we will schedule a strategy session with one of our distribution execs. This is to work out a marketing plan in order to give the most enticing package to the distributors.

2. We will create a list of all the distributors to send the film out to. This list can be added to by the filmmaker of any distributor we missed.

3. Our distribution team will then begin to send out screeners to each distributor.

4. We will gather feedback from each distributor and will add this to our distribution reports to indicate responses to the client.

5. Any offers received will immediately be presented to the client and they will make the final decision on how to proceed.