Introduction to Media Distribution

by Scott Kirkpatrick

In this second edition, author Scott Kirkpatrick draws from over a decade of personal experience in the distribution arena to provide a clear and up-to-date overview of the entire film, television and new media distribution business. Readers will learn what fuels the distribution process and exactly how the distribution business works from beginning to end―not merely what happens to a film or television series upon acquisition, but how distributors develop, presell and broker deals on content before it even exists. This new edition considers a much more international approach to media distribution, with case studies and analyses from across the globe. It also reflects on the ever-increasing relevance of diversity and inclusiveness in the industry, as well as the new media verticals like podcasts and the effects of social media influencers on the media landscape. The book will be an integral guidebook for any student or professional wishing to understand both the basics and the subtleties of media distribution. The book also contains a robust appendix containing in-depth studies of legal definitions, material delivery requirements, territory-by-territory financial projections and more.

Genres: Film

292 pages, Paperback

Published December 4, 2023

Reviews

[Amy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent survey of the field with real-world perspective on how these deals work. Having worked with the kinds of legal documents described, I suspect the lower ratings of this book are people who find the business aspects themselves boring, because the author describes them in a personable and thorough manner, bringing as much life to the subject as you can without discussing specific films or business entities.

The author adds actionable advice for making a career in Hollywood. Very good resource for people familiar with the business somewhat but not yet inside. Highly recommend.