What is Publicity / Public Relations?
The strategies and activities undertaken to generate public awareness, interest, and excitement about a film. The most common type of publicity is coverage of your film in news, industry, and entertainment publications. Publicity work includes but is not limited to:
- Press Releases: Distributing information about the movie to media outlets.
- Press Junkets: Organizing interviews and meetings between the movie's cast, crew, and the press.
- Media Appearances: Arranging for the cast and crew to appear on television, radio, podcasts, and other media platforms.
- Trailers and Teasers: Releasing promotional videos that highlight the movie's key elements.
- Premieres and Screenings: Hosting special events where the film is shown to select audiences, often including critics and influencers and members of the press.
- Influencer Partnerships: This can sometimes fall more under social media, but more often influencers are seen as publishers and a valuable part of a publicity campaign.
What does a publicist do for your film?
A publicist will strategize, coordinate, and execute some or all of the aforementioned services. A skilled publicist will have direct and robust relationships with journalists to secure coverage, most often that is favorable to your film.
How much does a publicist cost?
There is always a range based on experience, length of service and scope of work. Budgets range between $2k - $20K a month for typically a minimum of 3 months.
Can I do my own publicity?
Of course! But the benefit of working with a publicist is that they have the best direct relationships and expertise. If you don’t have the budget, here are some things you can do on your own.
- Create an EPK (see below)
- Create a Target List of press outlets and influencers. The more specific and relevant to your film, the better.
- Draft a concise pitch on why that publication should cover your film.