The Producer's Business Handbook, 2nd Edition

Chapter 2

U.S. Theatrical Distributors

This chapter reviews how major U.S. distributors function, and more particularly, looks at the three traditional relationship categories these studios engage in with independent producers:

•  In-house studio production

•  Negative pickup

•  Distribution agreement

Motion picture distributors, especially the major studio distributors, are the greatest advocates of independent producers. The more producers understand how studios operate, the various relationships they may have with them, and why studios function the way they do, the more producers will be able to appreciate these studios and forge more productive relationships with them.

The Major and Minor Distributors

The nine major distributor/studios are ...