Film Distribution

Distributing movies has always been an interesting subject. Film distribution is becoming even more interesting because of VOD (video on demand). Distributing used to include theatrical releases, selling, renting, or other exhibitions such as festivals. Feature films are usually first released at a premiere, which attracts stars and media coverage. Then films may be released in wide, limited, or exclusive release. Wide release opens in hundreds of theaters simultaneously. This was introduced in 1975 by Steven Spielberg's Jaws. Limited release means a film may only be released in major cities. Exclusive release films premiere in only one or two locations. Some films, such as Jurassic Park and Star Wars, have been released theatrically multiple times. Some recent films have been released straight to DVD or VOD. Films often move their release dates to avoid competition with other films. The Matrix moved it's release date to avoid competition with Star Wars: Episode I, Mission Impossible: Rogue Nation moved to July to avoid Star Wars: The Force Awakens, and Batman v Superman to avoid Captain America: Civil War.