Tubi, the free, ad-supported streaming service, offers independent filmmakers a compelling platform to reach a vast audience. Successfully submitting your movie to Tubi requires understanding their acquisition process, technical specifications, and the importance of a compelling pitch.
Understanding Tubi’s Acquisition Process
Getting your movie on Tubi isn’t as simple as uploading a file. It involves a carefully orchestrated process of acquisition, quality control, and metadata integration. Tubi primarily acquires content through aggregators, distributors, and directly from rights holders. Focusing your efforts on one or more of these channels will significantly increase your chances of success.
Finding the Right Channel: Aggregators, Distributors, or Direct Submission?
Your choice of submission channel depends on your budget, experience, and the level of control you wish to maintain.
Working with Aggregators
Aggregators act as intermediaries between filmmakers and streaming platforms like Tubi. They handle the technical encoding, metadata creation, and delivery of your film to multiple platforms, streamlining the process for you. While they typically take a percentage of your revenue, they offer a valuable service, especially for independent filmmakers without extensive resources. Popular aggregators include Filmhub, Distribber, and Quiver Distribution. Research each aggregator carefully, comparing their fees, services, and platform relationships.
Partnering with Distributors
Distributors are more involved than aggregators, often offering marketing and promotion services alongside technical distribution. They may also provide advances or guarantees against future revenue, but they typically take a larger percentage of the profits. Choose a distributor with a proven track record of placing films on platforms like Tubi and a strong understanding of your target audience.
Direct Submission: A Challenging but Rewarding Path
While Tubi doesn’t openly advertise a direct submission portal for unsolicited content, it’s not entirely impossible. This path requires building a strong relationship with a Tubi acquisitions executive, usually through networking at film festivals or industry events. Having a proven track record of success and a high-quality film are crucial for direct consideration. Be prepared to present a compelling pitch that highlights your film’s unique selling points and its potential appeal to Tubi’s audience. This is generally the least viable and most challenging route for filmmakers to pursue.
Preparing Your Film for Submission: Technical Specifications
Before submitting your film through any channel, ensure it meets Tubi’s strict technical requirements. Failure to do so can result in rejection. Key aspects include:
Video and Audio Standards
Tubi requires high-definition (HD) video, typically in 1080p or 4K resolution. Accepted video codecs include H.264 and ProRes. Audio must be clear and professionally mixed, ideally in 5.1 surround sound or stereo. Ensure your film is free of any technical flaws, such as dropouts, glitches, or audio distortion.
Metadata and Artwork
Accurate and compelling metadata is crucial for discoverability on Tubi. This includes the title, synopsis, genre, cast and crew information, and keywords. High-quality artwork, including posters and thumbnails, is essential to attract viewers. Invest in professional design to create visually appealing assets that reflect the tone and quality of your film.
Legal Considerations: Rights and Clearances
Ensure you have all necessary rights and clearances for your film, including music rights, actor releases, and location permits. Tubi will require proof of ownership and may conduct due diligence to verify the validity of your claims. Failure to secure the necessary rights can lead to legal issues and removal from the platform.
Crafting Your Pitch: Selling Your Film to Tubi
Whether working with an aggregator, distributor, or attempting direct submission, a compelling pitch is essential. Highlight the following aspects:
Target Audience and Genre
Clearly define your film’s target audience and genre. Explain why your film will resonate with Tubi’s viewers, considering their demographic profile and content preferences. Tubi is known for its diverse library, including classic films, independent features, and genre-specific content, so understand where your film fits within their catalog.
Unique Selling Points
Identify what makes your film stand out from the competition. Highlight unique themes, compelling characters, innovative storytelling, or any other aspects that make your film memorable.
Marketing and Promotion Plans
Outline your marketing and promotion plans for your film. This demonstrates your commitment to driving viewership and helps Tubi assess the potential return on investment. Consider social media campaigns, influencer outreach, and other strategies to generate buzz around your film.
Navigating the Agreement: Understanding Revenue Sharing
Once Tubi accepts your film, you’ll need to negotiate a revenue-sharing agreement. The specifics of these agreements vary depending on the submission channel and the terms negotiated. Carefully review the contract to understand the revenue split, payment schedule, and any other contractual obligations. Seek legal counsel if needed to ensure your interests are protected.
FAQs: Your Questions Answered
Here are some frequently asked questions to further clarify the process of submitting your movie to Tubi:
1. Does Tubi charge a fee for submitting a movie?
No, Tubi does not charge a submission fee. However, you may incur costs associated with working with aggregators or distributors, such as encoding fees or revenue-sharing agreements.
2. What genres of movies is Tubi most interested in?
Tubi features a diverse range of genres, including horror, action, thriller, drama, comedy, and family-friendly content. They also have a growing interest in international films and documentaries. Research Tubi’s current catalog to identify gaps and opportunities for your film.
3. How long does it take to get a movie accepted onto Tubi?
The timeline varies depending on the submission channel and the complexity of the negotiation process. It can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months to get a movie accepted and available on Tubi.
4. What are the ideal video and audio specifications for Tubi?
Tubi prefers HD video (1080p or 4K) with H.264 or ProRes codecs. Audio should be in 5.1 surround sound or stereo. Ensure your film meets Tubi’s detailed technical specifications to avoid rejection.
5. What kind of metadata is important for submitting to Tubi?
Essential metadata includes the film title, synopsis, genre, cast and crew information, keywords, and any relevant ratings or awards. Accurate and compelling metadata is crucial for discoverability.
6. Do I need to have distribution experience to submit my film to Tubi?
While prior distribution experience is helpful, it’s not essential. Working with an aggregator can compensate for a lack of experience by handling the technical aspects of distribution.
7. Can I submit my short film to Tubi?
Tubi primarily focuses on feature-length films. However, they may occasionally acquire short film content. Explore platforms like Vimeo or Film Shortage for short film distribution.
8. How can I find a reputable film aggregator or distributor?
Research aggregators and distributors online, read reviews, and compare their services and fees. Attend film festivals and industry events to network with potential partners.
9. What are the key factors Tubi considers when acquiring a film?
Tubi considers factors such as the film’s target audience, genre, production quality, marketing potential, and rights availability.
10. How does Tubi pay filmmakers?
Tubi typically pays filmmakers based on a revenue-sharing model, where you receive a percentage of the advertising revenue generated by your film. The payment schedule is usually outlined in the agreement.
11. What is the best way to contact Tubi’s acquisitions team?
Networking at film festivals and industry events is the most effective way to connect with Tubi’s acquisitions team. Building relationships with aggregators or distributors who have existing relationships with Tubi can also open doors.
12. What rights does Tubi require when acquiring a film?
Tubi typically requires the exclusive streaming rights to your film for a specific territory and duration. Carefully review the agreement to understand the scope of the rights being granted.
By understanding Tubi’s acquisition process, technical specifications, and the importance of a compelling pitch, you can significantly increase your chances of getting your movie on the platform and reaching millions of viewers. Remember to choose the right submission channel, prepare your film meticulously, and negotiate a fair agreement. Good luck!