Getting your movie listed on IMDb, the Internet Movie Database, is crucial for visibility, credibility, and even potential distribution. The answer to how to put your movie on IMDb is multifaceted, involving careful preparation, adherence to specific guidelines, and a clear understanding of IMDb’s data structure. It boils down to creating a new title listing through IMDb’s Contributor tool, meticulously providing accurate and verifiable information, and ensuring your submission meets their stringent eligibility criteria.
Why IMDb Matters for Filmmakers
IMDb is more than just a website; it’s the industry standard for film and television information. A listing on IMDb lends legitimacy to your project, allowing potential investors, distributors, and viewers to find details about your movie, cast, and crew. It acts as a digital resume for everyone involved and is often a prerequisite for entering film festivals and securing distribution deals. Being listed allows you to build an online presence and track the success of your film, even at the independent level.
The Path to IMDb Listing: A Step-by-Step Guide
Here’s a breakdown of the process for getting your movie listed on IMDb:
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Verify Eligibility: Before anything else, ensure your film meets IMDb’s eligibility requirements. Generally, this means the film must have been publicly screened, broadcasted, or distributed. Student films, private screenings, or films solely intended for personal use typically don’t qualify. Having a physical or digital distribution deal significantly increases your chances.
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Gather Your Information: This is arguably the most critical step. Compile all the necessary information about your film, including:
- Title: The official title of your movie.
- Release Date: The date the film was first publicly screened or distributed.
- Running Time: The total length of the film in minutes.
- Genre: The primary genre(s) of the movie.
- Plot Outline: A concise summary of the film’s plot.
- Credits: Full names of the cast and crew, along with their roles (e.g., director, producer, actor). Ensure accuracy!
- Production Companies: The names of the companies involved in the film’s production.
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Create an IMDb Account (if you don’t have one already): Go to IMDb.com and create a free account. You’ll need a valid email address.
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Subscribe to IMDbPro (Recommended): While you can submit information without an IMDbPro subscription, it’s highly recommended. IMDbPro provides several advantages:
- Faster Processing: Submissions from IMDbPro members often get prioritized.
- More Control: You have more control over your profile and the information displayed about your film.
- Verification: It adds credibility to your submissions, reducing the likelihood of rejection.
- Profile Pages: Individual cast and crew members can create and manage their own IMDb pages.
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Use the IMDb Contribution Tool: Log in to your IMDb account and navigate to the “Contribute” section. Look for the option to “Add a new title.” You’ll be presented with a series of forms to fill out with the information you gathered.
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Select the Correct Title Type: Carefully choose the correct title type (e.g., Feature Film, TV Movie, Short Film, etc.).
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Enter Information Meticulously: Fill out all the fields accurately and thoroughly. Pay close attention to spelling, grammar, and formatting. Double-check every detail before submitting. Use official sources, such as press releases or distribution contracts, to verify information.
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Provide Verifiable Proof (if possible): Whenever possible, provide verifiable proof to support your submissions. This could include links to official websites, press releases, or distribution agreements.
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Submit Your Contribution: Once you’ve completed all the forms, carefully review your submission one last time. Then, submit it to IMDb.
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Be Patient: IMDb’s data editors review all submissions, and the processing time can vary. It may take several days or even weeks for your film to be listed.
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Follow Up (if necessary): If you haven’t heard back from IMDb after a reasonable amount of time, you can check the status of your submission and follow up with them through their Help Center.
The Importance of Accuracy and Verifiability
IMDb prioritizes accuracy and verifiability above all else. Submitting inaccurate or unverifiable information can lead to rejection or even account suspension. Always double-check your information and provide sources whenever possible.
Utilizing IMDbPro to Your Advantage
As mentioned, IMDbPro is a valuable tool for filmmakers. In addition to faster processing and more control, it allows you to claim your film’s page, add photos and videos, and track its performance.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Getting Your Movie on IMDb
Here are 12 common questions about listing your movie on IMDb, with comprehensive answers to guide you:
1. How much does it cost to list my movie on IMDb?
Listing your movie on IMDb itself is free. However, an IMDbPro subscription is highly recommended for faster processing, more control, and increased credibility. IMDbPro subscription costs vary, so check their website for current pricing.
2. What if my film is still in production? Can I still list it?
You can create a listing for a film in production, but it’s crucial to indicate its “status.” Select “Filming,” “Pre-production,” or “Post-production” in the submission form. IMDb prefers complete and released films, so your listing might have limited visibility until the film is publicly available.
3. My film is a student project. Can I list it on IMDb?
Generally, student films are not eligible for inclusion unless they meet specific criteria, such as being publicly screened at a recognized film festival or having a distribution deal. IMDb primarily focuses on commercially released films.
4. What constitutes a “public screening” for IMDb’s eligibility requirements?
A public screening means the film was shown in a theater, film festival, or other venue open to the general public. A private screening for friends and family does not qualify. Evidence of public screening, like festival program listings, is beneficial.
5. How long does it take for IMDb to approve my submission?
The processing time varies. Submissions from IMDbPro members often get prioritized and processed faster, typically within a few days to a week. Non-IMDbPro submissions can take several weeks or even longer.
6. What if my film has multiple titles (e.g., original language title and English title)?
Submit the original title of the film first. Then, you can add the alternative title or “Also Known As” (AKA) title through the contribution tool. Make sure to clearly indicate which is the original title.
7. Can I edit or update my film’s information on IMDb after it’s been listed?
Yes, you can edit and update your film’s information using the contribution tool. This includes correcting errors, adding new cast members, or updating the plot summary. With IMDbPro, you have even more control over your page.
8. What if IMDb rejects my submission? What can I do?
If your submission is rejected, IMDb will usually provide a reason. Carefully review the reason and correct any issues with your submission. Ensure you have verifiable proof and adhere to IMDb’s guidelines. You can then resubmit your film for consideration.
9. How can I add a poster or images to my film’s IMDb page?
If you are an IMDbPro member, you can directly upload posters and images to your film’s page. Otherwise, you can submit them through the contribution tool, providing evidence that you own the rights to the images.
10. Is it better to wait until my film has secured distribution before submitting to IMDb?
Yes, securing distribution significantly increases the likelihood of your film being accepted on IMDb. Distribution provides verifiable proof of public availability, which is a key criterion.
11. How can I prevent incorrect information from being added to my film’s IMDb page?
The best way to prevent incorrect information is to actively monitor your film’s page and promptly correct any errors you find. An IMDbPro subscription allows you to have greater control and be notified of changes.
12. What are the ethical considerations when adding credits to IMDb?
Only list individuals who genuinely contributed to the film. Ensure accurate spelling of names and correct roles. Getting credits wrong is unprofessional and can damage your reputation. Obtain permission from individuals before adding their names if you’re unsure.
Conclusion: Making Your Mark on the Industry’s Database
Getting your movie listed on IMDb is an essential step for any filmmaker seeking recognition and credibility. By following these guidelines, meticulously preparing your information, and understanding IMDb’s policies, you can successfully navigate the submission process and ensure your film gets the visibility it deserves. Invest in accuracy, consider IMDbPro, and be persistent. Your IMDb listing is a valuable tool in your filmmaking journey.