Independent filmmakers face a fast-evolving landscape: rising costs, fragmented audiences, and tougher routes to market. Yet with more platforms and opportunities than ever before, smart strategies can still give films the best chance to succeed.

In this episode, Alex Stolz speaks with Jonathan Sadler — veteran marketer and author of Film Marketing and Distribution: An Independent Filmmaker’s Guide. With over two decades of experience at companies including Universal Pictures, Momentum, Revolver, Warner Music and Arrow Films, Jonathan has worked on everything from Amélie and Lost in Translation to Donnie Darko and The Mummy.

Together, they explore:

• Why casting is also a marketing decision

• The importance of product-market fit for indie films

• Practical steps filmmakers can take upstream to maximise audience reach

• How evolving distribution models create new opportunities

This is an essential conversation for anyone who wants to understand how independent films can not just survive, but thrive, in today’s marketplace.

About Jonathan Sadler

Jonathan Sadler has been marketing filmed entertainment content since 1998, first at Universal Pictures before spending over 5 years at Momentum Pictures as home entertainment marketing director. He headed up marketing at Revolver Entertainment, Warner Music International and Arrow Films. Sadler has launched or worked on the re-release of iconic films such as Amelie, American Beauty, The Mummy, Lost in Translation, Cinema Paradiso, Heathers, Anuvahood, Edie, The Hunt, Donnie Darko and Love is All You Need. Film Marketing & Distribution: An Independent Filmmaker’s Guide is his first book.