Film Distribution Checklist
Everything you need to prepare your film for distribution across streaming platforms and film festivals.
This comprehensive checklist covers every aspect of preparing your film for distribution. Use it to ensure nothing falls through the cracks before submitting to platforms or festivals.
1
Technical Specifications
- Verify resolution meets platform requirements (typically 1920x1080 or 3840x2160)
- Confirm frame rate matches deliverable requirements (23.976fps, 24fps, 25fps, 29.97fps)
- 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 (SRT, VTT, STL)
- Confirm color space and gamma (Rec.709, Rec.2020, P3)
- Prepare separate files for different delivery requirements
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 and archived
- Verify location permits and release forms
- Confirm E&O insurance is in place
- Register copyright for your film
- Prepare credits file with proper credits list
3
Marketing Materials
- Create poster artwork in required dimensions
- Prepare trailer (30 sec, 60 sec, 2 min versions)
- Write logline and synopsis (50 words, 100 words, 250 words)
- Compile cast & crew list with headshots
- Write director's statement and biography
- Prepare production stills (minimum 5 high-res)
- Create key art for different platforms
- Write press release and press kit
4
Platform Requirements
- Research specific requirements for each target platform
- Complete platform application forms
- Prepare territory and territorial restrictions list
- Set pricing strategy (AVOD, SVOD, TVOD, Free)
- Prepare content ratings and maturity classifications
- Create platform-specific metadata
- Set up distribution account on each platform
- Prepare regional blackout lists if applicable
5
Metadata & Assets
- Write keyword-rich descriptions for discoverability
- Prepare genre tags and category selections
- Create multiple language metadata versions
- Prepare dubbed and subtitle versions
- Set up digital delivery via Hightail, Aspera, or platform portal
- Prepare screening links for platform reviewers
- Create project folder with organized file structure
- Prepare backup copies of all materials
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
- Check aspect ratio and safe zones
- Review color grading consistency
- Verify chapter markers and timestamps
- Get final sign-off from all stakeholders
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