TIMECRIMES & the Indie Distribution Problem

A very clever independent Science Fiction film titled TIMECRIMES (aka LOS CRONOCRIMENES, CRONOCRIMES) opened last month theatrically and had to compete with these entries:

THE DAY THE EARTH STOOD STILL with Keanu Reeves, Jennifer Connelly
DOUBT with Meryl Streep, Phillip Seymour Hoffman
GRAN TORINO with Clint Eastwood
READER with Kate Winslet and Ralph Fienes
WHAT DOESN'T KILL YOU with Mark Ruffalo and Ethan Hawke
DELGO - Big names voiced this indie 3D animated film

Going up against big names like Clint, Keanu, Meryl, Ethan, Kate, Ralph and others? Good luck with any low-budget film! In a situation like this, it's easy for even a GREAT indie to get lost in the crowd. According to boxofficemojo.com, TIMECRIMES took in $23,389. and it's widest release was in seven theaters. Luckily it made $413,308. worldwide.

This example illustrates the plight of all independent film in competing theatrically with Hollywood films. Even with big names, DELGO was slaughtered at the box office earning $694,782. with a Wide Release in 2,160 theaters. One of the WORST openings EVER.

Kevin Geiger on indie film business plans

Excerpt 2 of 4 from Kevin Geiger's informal presentation on independent film business planning, delivered at the Griffith University Film School in Brisbane, May 2008. Kevin discusses indie film development funding and business plans, with specific attention to development & advisory teams, and investor presentations.

Kevin Geiger on indie film business plans

Excerpt 1 of 4 from Kevin Geiger's informal presentation on independent film business planning, delivered at the Griffith University Film School in Brisbane, May 2008. Kevin discusses the distinctions and relationships between production companies, development companies and producing companies.