Internet v. Film Festivals

By Anthony Mathews


Young film makers are always looking for a way to tell the world about their films but what is the best way to do that? While some film makers argue that film festivals and in-person viewings of the movie are your best bet others say that you are better off using internet sites that let you post films such as YouTube, Vimeo, and DailyMotion. Jordee Wester, a film maker, believes his best way of getting his films into a noticeable position is through film festivals and social media. Depending on the quality and the potential he sees in it he will post to YouTube or another site. He is also someone who never posts his films or even links to them on blogs. Though he admits to using film festivals and in-person interactions to his benefit, Wester also thinks the internet works just as well in its own way. "The internet is good with reaching large and vast audiences quick." said Wester, "your content has potential to spread a lot quicker over the internet." Something he really likes about going to film festivals is the networking and being around people that think the same as you and the people he has opportunities to work with now because of these festivals. Wester had this to say, "Most of the people I work with now are because of interactions I've had at film festivals. It's awesome to see people from around the country creating amazing films." Though Wester has a point, not everyone feels the same way about this topic. Andres Cardenas Jr., actor, film maker, and director, loves his work with a passion and believes that the internet is how to really spread the word. Cardenas uses websites like YouTube, BuzzFeed, and Pinterest to advertise his works like previews and covers of projects. Social media is one way he spreads his message, "Any and all other social medias, are of most used sources especially hastags." said Cardenas. He admits to not being much of a blogger because he feels it is not as noticed at other social medias but is not against the idea. When it comes down to his choice though, Cardenas chooses internet marketing over film festivals. "Not many have the ability to attend a film festival. Internet is worldwide." says Cardenas, "leading thing of anything." With internet views growing, it's hard to even argue that it is not the best possible way to market yourself and career. YouTube alone has film makers produce over 10,000 videos and generated more than 1 billion views with 70+ million hours of watch time. Marketing your work over the internet is definitely a great way to get your name out there. In the end though you choose but stats do not lie.