The internet has changed the definition of business as usual in the entertainment world. When it comes to film, the very definition of the term has changed. Not long ago we thought in binary terms: feature film and TV shows. Features were the crown jewels. That was the medium that attracted the top actors, writers and directors. Now the playing field has changed. There are now a myriad new avenues of distribution. Technology has also changed the movie world in other ways.

Quality projects are being made on shoestring budgets outside of the traditional system. The chances of you getting that dream project produced are greater than ever before. Yet one issue remains: once your project is produced, how does it find its audience? How do you secure distribution or find your target market?  For independent filmmakers, producers and directors, launching a personal marketing and PR campaign is more important than ever. It’s important not only to create awareness and a buzz for your project, but to establish your brand as a filmmaker.

Social media and other forms of internet-oriented outreach are vital, but PR is essential. Why? It offers you and your movie the validation and credibility of being featured in magazines and newspapers as well as on TV and the radio. That type of coverage helps create a buzz and builds a brand for you and your film.   That type of press coverage also separates your film from the completion. It establishes your film in the marketplace and you as a player. Once you have that component in place, you can effectively broaden your marketing approach. As you start to garner some media coverage, start a social media campaign to amplify and magnify it. Melding your PR and social media campaigns you end up with effective overall marketing strategy.

Never forget that the bottom line when creating an effective PR campaign for your film is to have stories that will interest the media. What make both you and your film interesting? What makes you and your journey as a filmmaker compelling? You’ve used your creativity to make a film; now use that same creativity to make it a success. Come up with different ways you can generate interest in your project. Don’t limit yourself. Consider humor, sex, controversy… you get the idea.   Remember, your goal here is not simply to draw attention to and promote your film; you also want to focus on building your own personal brand as a filmmaker.