Independent Film Marketing Checklist:

From early on in the development of a film, it is important to consider who the target audience is and how best to speak to them.  From the phrasing of the one liner, tag line and synopsis, to the key art and one-sheet, to the professionalism of the press kit and the announcement of the film to the press, an independent film can compete with the studio films – it’s all in the presentation.   Bringing the studio mentality of marketing to independents starts with the below strategic elements:

Pre-Production (two-four weeks)
	Breakdown script for publicity shots (shot list to unit photographer)
	Synopsis – paragraph and one liner versions
	Generate creative ideas for one-sheet, partner with graphic designer and manage production of key art
	IMDB and production listings management
	Publicity – press release to the trades announcing principal photography
	Design ideas for website
Production (five weeks)
	Write content for website and digital press kit (bios/about/synopsis/production notes/trailer)
	Key art and one-sheet creation
	Design website and manage website design firm
	Publicity – coordinate with local press as needed
	Create digital press kit - DVD of trailer plus content from the website including hi-res downloadable and reproducible key art and publicity stills - used for publicity, festivals and distributor reps
	EPK shoot with actors/producers on set
Post Production (five to seven weeks)
	Select final publicity stills (from the library of photos)
	Edit EPK for footage on the digital press kit and for DVD content
	Complete one-sheet and print
	Update IMDB with photos, content
	Update production listings
	Submit application to festivals
	Complete website and launch
	Complete digital press kit
	Publicity as needed
	Design postcard invite for screenings
	Coordinate screenings (test or distributor)
Additional Services:
Focus Group Festival Representation Distributor rep coordination Theatrical Release marketing services (advertising, publicity)