Distributor (media)

A distributor delivers media properties from a production company to market. Content generators in music, film, television, internet, and other media partner with distributors so that their content can reach a broader audience, or an audience at all. Distributors make media available through retail, broadcast, live venues or other channels.

Film distribution

A film distributor is responsible for the marketing of a film. The distribution company is usually different from the production company. Distribution deals are an important part of financing a film.

The distributor may set the release date of a film and the method by which a film is to be exhibited or made available for viewing; for example, directly to the public either theatrically or for home viewing (DVD, video-on-demand, download, television programs through broadcast syndication etc.). A distributor may do this directly, if the distributor owns the theaters or film distribution networks, or through theatrical exhibitors and other sub-distributors. A limited distributor may deal only with particular products, such as DVDs or Blu-ray, or may act in a particular country or market. The Primary distributor will often receive credit in the film's credits, one sheet or other marketing material.