The Shifting Sands Of Series Distribution

In the past I’ve emphasized how there’s no market for independently produced series but due to recent strike-related events, the tides are changing PLUS how to leverage the podcast-to-series boom.

I’m going to just come right out and say something controversial (at least in these parts) and that is I’m seeing new opportunities for completed series distribution.

In the past I’ve emphasized how there’s no market for independently produced series but due to recent strike-related events, the tides are changing and I’m dialing back my stance.

In the last couple of weeks alone I’ve had three or four conversations with filmmakers and producers who have completed unscripted and documentary series that we’re finding interest from distributors for. These are broadcast length and quality, shot and finished on 4K, and are delivery-ready.

There’s a couple cases where we have only pilots or sizzle reels but the producers have the means to execute on an entire series should we find distribution partners, so we’re using those assets to take the project to market. Essentially it’s vetting an idea before investing in the production of the entire series.

My take on all this is that similar to the feature film world, there’s a short term spike in demand for certain types of content that can be programmed over the next twelve months as supply chains temporarily dwindle. We’re seeing it in feature films and now we’re seeing it in series too.

So if you’ve got something in the can (feature or series) that you’d like to explore distribution for, get in touch! I’m offering specialized consulting services in this area but even if I can’t get involved in that capacity, I’ll try and point you in the right direction anyway. Email me at stacey@filmspecific.com with more details and a link to what you’ve got.

---

---

The Podcast To Series Boom

Another area where I’m seeing new opportunities is in the podcast-to-series space. A couple of producers I know have either self funded a podcast that they were later able to flip into a series, or partner with a podcast network on a story they had originally developed for TV but then adapted it for audio. In both cases what we’re seeing is a well-worn path from one medium (podcast) to another (TV/streaming), particularly in the unscripted true crime space.

The added benefit here is while many tv/streaming productions are shut down at the moment due to strikes, folks are pivoting to audio to keep the creative momentum going and develop an asset along the way.

Are you able to capitalize on this trend yourself? If so, I’d love to hear about it - hit me up in the comments section below and let me know any questions you have.

Podcast series can be developed from existing IP and then leveraged on their own as IP. They come with their own set of challenges however and shouldn’t be seen as a no-brainer adaptation of a tv series concept for example. Ideally, you’ll have someone on your team who is an experienced podcast producer who can guide you through the process.

---

With that, I’ll wrap things up here for today. I hope you have a wonderful day ahead and I’ll speak to you again soon…

To your success,

Stacey

+++++++++++++++