Film Distribution Checklist

A comprehensive guide to preparing your film for distribution across streaming platforms and film festivals.

1. Technical Specifications

• Verify resolution meets platform requirements (typically 1920x1080 or 3840x2160)
• Confirm frame rate matches deliverable requirements
• Check audio specifications (stereo, 5.1, Dolby Digital Plus)
• Ensure correct codec for delivery (ProRes, DNxHD, H.264, H.265)
• Verify bitrate meets platform minimums
• Check subtitle and closed caption file formats
• Confirm color space and gamma

2. Legal Clearances

• Obtain chain of title documentation
• Secure music rights and sync licenses
• Clear all footage and images used
• Ensure talent release forms are signed
• Verify location permits and release forms
• Confirm E&O insurance is in place
• Register copyright for your film

3. Marketing Materials

• Create poster artwork in required dimensions
• Prepare trailer versions (30 sec, 60 sec, 2 min)
• Write logline and synopsis
• Compile cast & crew list
• Prepare director's statement and biography
• Create production stills

4. Platform Requirements

• Research specific requirements for each target platform
• Complete platform application forms
• Prepare territory restrictions list
• Set pricing strategy
• Create platform-specific metadata

5. Metadata & Assets

• Write keyword-rich descriptions
• Prepare genre tags and category selections
• Create multiple language metadata versions
• Prepare dubbed and subtitle versions

6. Quality Control

• Run technical QC on all video files
• Check audio levels and loudness normalization
• Verify subtitle timing and accuracy
• Test on multiple playback devices