How To Promote Your Film Online: A Simple Step-By-Step Guide For Filmmakers

Making a film is only half of the job done the main job is to get people to watch it, which is equally important. From creating a website and sharing behind-the-scenes content to reaching reviewers and using social media, here are some simple ways filmmakers can promote their projects online.

Every filmmaker wants their film to reach as many people as possible. However, uploading a trailer or posting once on social media is usually not enough. Film promotion works best when it is planned step by step.

Here are some simple ways to market a film online.

Create A Home For Your Film

Before asking people to watch your film, make sure there is one place where they can find all the information.

A website or landing page can include the trailer, synopsis, cast and crew details, posters, still photographs, festival selections and links to watch the film or book tickets. It can also include a press kit for journalists and bloggers who may want to cover the project.

Prepare Content Before Release

Many filmmakers focus only on the trailer, but audiences often connect more with smaller pieces of content.

Short clips from the film, behind-the-scenes videos, rehearsal footage, production updates and cast interactions can help keep people interested before release.

It also helps to prepare ready-made social media posts that cast and crew members can easily share on their own accounts.

Plan A Release Schedule

Treat the release as an event rather than simply uploading the film online.

Just a few weeks before the release, filmmakers can start sharing with teasers, countdown posts and behind-the-scenes content. On release day, all social media platforms should put posters and direct the viewers to where the film is available.

And after the release, continue with posting audience reactions, reviews and discussions to keep the film visible.

Find The Right Audience

Instead of trying to reach everyone, focus on people who are already interested in your genre/project.

Example: A Horror film can be shared in horror genre communities, likewise, a documentary can be promoted among audiences interested in that subject. Online groups and film members can help filmmakers connect directly with viewers who are more likely to watch the film.

Reach Out To Reviewers

Reviews can help more people discover a film.

Apart from large media organisations, filmmakers can contact independent reviewers, bloggers, YouTube creators and film websites that regularly cover similar content.

When reaching out, it is really important to keep the message simple, introduce the project clearly and provide viewing access if available.

Choose The Right Distribution Platform

In today’s time frame, filmmakers have multiple options for releasing their work.

Some choose self-distribution platforms such as YouTube or Vimeo, while others submit their films to festivals and look for distribution prospects later.

Film festivals can help create awareness and connect filmmakers with industry professionals. Submitting your films on their platforms, even has a chance of winning and having a wider audience.