Nathania Johnson August 8th, 2007
Hi, I’m Nathania. I’m Josh’s wife. Josh has been so busy filming the Rejects, so I thought I’d hijack his blog.
Today, I’d like to share with you a few companies that can help you with DVD production and distribution. Sure, you could burn your own DVDs, print your own covers and assemble the final product. But wouldn’t you rather spend your time on your next film project? I thought so.
Here are some time-saving options:
Lulu.com is based right here in the Carolinas. If you’re really into local, then this company is for you. They have a great reputation and you can also market your DVDs through their site. Unfortunately, it’s a bit on the pricey side. 100 discs = $658, 500=$3,260
CreateSpace, formerly CustomFlix Labs, is an Amazon company. That alone has a ton of implications. You can sell your DVD on Amazon, offer it for download on Amazon Unbox, sell through a CreateSpace Estore or simply order duplication/replication services. Duplication of 100 DVDs = $297 (it was not clear whether you can do this w/o selling on Amazon/CreateSpace). Replication of 500 retail ready DVD-9 = $1295.
esystor.com is not a particularly flashy site, but they do offer DVD Replication Services. 500 retail ready DVD-9 = $1365
FilmBaby - If you’re familiar with CDBaby, then this is a no brainer. Sell your film on FilmBaby - they keep $4 for every sale. You set your price so profits vary among filmmakers, but FilmBaby claims an 80% average profit for their filmmakers.
What to Consider:
Distribution
If you don’t want to mail each individual DVD order yourself, then you should consider using a service that will do the mailing for you. Technically, you won’t make as much of a profit, but time is money. If your personal mailing assembly line is keeping you from working on your next project, then you could be delaying profits in the long run.
Price and Profit
Amazon will keep more of a profit than other services, but they also have a HUGE reach. The good news is that it costs you nothing, since they print on-demand.
Read the Fine Print
Will you get your mailed materials back? Do you get to proof a copy of the DVD before they’re sold or printed? Do your homework. Make sure you know exactly what your duplication and/or distribution service is offering.
Greenlight Yourself
Hey - why wait for Hollywood to notice you? Embrace the digital age where the world truly is your oyster. Make a name for yourself. Don’t let anyone decide who you are, what story you should tell or what your style should be. Be your own studio. Greenlight your next project. What are you waiting for?