FILM RELEASE PATTERNS

What are exclusive and limited runs?

Exclusing and limited runs begin with engagements at a limited number of screens, tradionally in large urban areas (such as what happened for This is England.) Based of positive word-of-mouth and favourable reviews the film may move to additional theatres.

What type of film is this used for?

Films with specific, niche target audiences and small budgets, such as Shifty which was produced through the Microwave Scheme.

What is the modified wide release?

When the film will be open in a few major markets and expand week by week to build awareness and allow positive word-of-mouth to develop.

What would support this type of release?

Initially spot-advertising would support this type of release (advertising in a specific geographical region) and may then move to national advertising once it expands to other markets.

What is territorial saturation?

It involves saturating a territory with bookings, heavy advertising and promotion, before moving onto another territory.

What is wide release?

The most common release pattern, in which the film is released nationally in all markets.

Who uses this type of release and why?

Used by the majors, since this type of release patterns requires a heavy investment in prints and national advertising which is very expensive.

What do the producers and distributors gain from wide release?

They can gain revenues to recoup their investment in a shorter time period (provided the film is successful). Revenues from DVD/Blu-ray sales can also be released faster from a quickly-executed theatrical release which increases the potential for income.

What type of films is this release pattern used for?

Typically it is used for upscale 'arthouse' films or foreign films and may be part of a platforming strategy, where critical acclaim in an important market will assist in providing momentum for a wide release.