This book is about the business of distribution, around which the international film business revolves. Considering sales agents and distributors as primary gatekeepers, the book examines the networks in which they operate, how they operate, how their practices have evolved, and the power and control they exert over the business of independent film distribution. Critically, it also considers how they are affected by the powerful influence of Netflix and Amazon in the online era. At a time of disruption and change to traditional business models and industry professions, Roderik Smits argues that gatekeepers remain equally – if not more – crucial to the distribution and circulation of films in international markets.
Roderik Smits
Film distribution Film sales agents Film distributors video-on-demand VOD Film business Hollywood studio Netflix Amazon Studios Media industries
“Situated at the intersection of Film Studies and Media Industry Studies, this is a much-needed examination of gatekeeping in the independent sector of the film distribution business. Smits uses highly original industry research to explore the little understood ways in which sales agents, distributors, digital content aggregators and online platforms enable (some) films to reach audiences.” (Professor Andrew Higson, University of York, UK)
“This monograph is a much-needed addition to both Distribution Studies and Media Industry Studies. It provides an empirically rich exploration of some previously under-researched intermediaries (e.g. distributors, sales agents and content aggregators). The book also provides a fascinating discussion of the development of film markets (/festivals) and the political machinations that have led some to grow and others to falter.” (Dr Virginia Crisp, King's College London, UK)
“This monograph is incredibly timely and critically necessary. It establishes a foundational understanding of sales agents and the gatekeeping role they perform in the screen industries at a time of significant disruption to traditional business models. Media industry scholars take note: we need more investigations like this one, not only for the benefit of our research, but also our teaching.” (Dr Kevin Sanson, Queensland University of Technology, Australia)
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