2015 is the start of a new era for Independent Film! (Part 1)
by Benjamin Oberman
January 4, 2015
Whether you realize it or not, the world has changed. The release of The Interview at the end of 2014 confirmed my theory and signaled the end of the digital infancy. According to the LA Times and FOX Business, the “day-and-date” release of THE INTERVIEW, forever changed the game.
The close of 2014 signaled the end of an era for the Indie.
For those of you who don’t know all the details… Following the major theater chains and digital platforms canceling the Christmas release, deeming the film too risky for exhibition, the Art House Convergence community and the Alamo Drafthouse theater chain, rescued Sony with a petition to screen the film and stand up against Cyberterrorism.
Not only were the participating art house theaters sold out, the initial digital release of the film on Google Play and YouTube was the top performing movie on these platforms for 2014. Before expanding to iTunes, the film set Sony’s all-time record for online sales. Following the successful release, major theater chains were angered and an expanded digital release was announced as the major digital platforms rushed in.
2015 begins a new era for Independent Films.
In the midst of this changing landscape, we see great opportunity for the Independent film community.Film Festival Flix is building a parallel universe, seeking to be your trusted resource to discover and watch quality indie, art-house, foreign language, and niche market films. We are launching a number of initiatives to champion the Indie. In 2015 be sure to check out our theatrical premiere series, award-winning films, online film festivals, short film competition, and join our e-mail list to be invited to exclusive parties and events.
THINK INDEPENDENTLY embodies every message we send out, each film we acquire and distribute, the audience we attract, our approach to marketing and business, and the overall attitude of our Film Festival Flix community.
Thank you for your support which has empowered us to build a company that can positively impact the world through intelligent, award-winning films and the passionate artists who devoted years of their lives to bring these stories to the big screen. We are the farmer’s market of film distribution serving all your specialty needs. We look forward to sharing an amazing year of films and events with you!
Independently Yours,
Benjamin Oberman
President / CEO
