What does it mean to distribute a film impactfully? How can new filmmakers ensure that the movie they have spent so much time and effort on reaches its full potential? Rachel Gordon answers these questions and more in her new release, The Documentary Distribution Toolkit. The book is a comprehensive guide to documentary self-distribution, providing advice from experienced filmmakers and industry representatives. It is the ultimate source for any filmmaker hoping to expand the reach of their documentary.
The process of writing The Documentary Distribution Toolkit began when media and communications librarian at Ithaca College, Cathy Michael, reached out to Gordon regarding a blog post she had written about documentary distribution. Noticing a gap in educational resources for this topic, Michael suggested Gordon seek out publishing. Rachel Gordon contacted the publisher Michael buys books from, Focal Press, and after submitting one of her MBA graduate papers, she was offered a book deal within a week.
The Documentary Distribution Toolkit is a reference for the 21st century, including both tried-and-true advice from professionals, as well as innovative distribution methods. The book describes the power of community and partnerships in the distribution world, as well as documentary organizations and events to be aware of. The Documentary Distribution Toolkit includes ways to take advantage of technology and the current digital landscape, including public broadcasters, specialty TV, and streaming online. The book also provides advice on how to reach the educational community and an understanding of how documentaries are used in schools.
Gordon’s book is truly a global reference guide, utilizing interviews and case studies from filmmakers worldwide. Filmmakers interviewed include Alice Elliot, a documentary director, writer, and member of New Day Films. The Documentary Distribution Toolkit also includes insights from public television stations like ARTE, ZDF, Al Jazeera, TRT (Turkey), and NHK. Rachel Gordon also draws on her personal experience in the film industry.
Gordon has over 20 years of experience in documentary distribution. She has worked on numerous independent short films, which have been screened at film festivals across the United States and the U.K. At the National Film Board of Canada, Gordon honed her grassroots skills and went on to establish Rachel Gordon Media/Energized Films to help independent creators reach a larger audience. She utilizes the targeted distribution strategies she has learned throughout her career to help films reach their full potential in the public world.
The main goal of The Documentary Distribution Toolkit is to empower filmmakers to distribute their films in an impactful way. Both straightforward and innovative, Gordon’s book is the perfect companion for any filmmaker ushering a new film into the world. The Documentary Distribution Toolkit is available to purchase now.