Kozhikode-based Minimal Cinema has launched video-on-demand distribution of around 20 works including feature films and documentaries, which are available on ‘rent’ or ‘purchase’ options.
Kozhikode-based Minimal Cinema has launched video-on-demand distribution of around 20 works including feature films and documentaries, which are available on ‘rent’ or ‘purchase’ options.
A group of cine aspirants in Kerala are helping indie filmmakers to increase their worldwide visibility by taking the Video on Demand (VOD) route. Minimal Cinema, which was launched in Kozhikode in 2015 to support independent and experimental cinema in its production and screenings, has done VOD distribution of around 20 works, including feature films and documentaries, since it began offering the service last year. Had it. Out of this, about 10 feature films had VOD premieres. The curated catalog available on the Collective’s website (www.minimalcinema.in) includes feature films and documentaries in Malayalam and Tamil.
“The decision to explore the growing potential of the VOD system was taken after the pandemic worsened the already shrinking space for independent filmmakers to showcase their works. Film festivals were canceled and there was no opportunity for indie films in commercially operated OTT platforms,” says Pratap Joseph, cinematographer and co-founder of Minimal Cinema, who is also a member of Federation of Film Societies of India . The people behind Collective took an annual subscription to a video hosting platform based in the United States to upload content. Feature films and documentaries are available on rent or purchase option.
pricing factor
“The pricing, which has been decided as per the suggestions given by the filmmakers, ranges between one and two dollars for a 48-hour streaming period to rent. We charge only 10% return for meeting technical needs like content digitization and delivery while handing over the rest of the earnings to the producers,” says Mr. Pratap, who cranked the camera for award-winning films. sexy durga And CR Number: 89,
Filmmaker Srikrishnan KP, whose feature films marupathai (Tamil) and Oru Karayakkum Mattanekangalakumidayil (Malayalam) Minimal Cinemas says independent filmmakers have to explore multiple distribution channels to expand their footprint and VOD remains a major option. “My films distributed by Minimal Cinema were seen by audiences in different parts of India, as well as by staunch supporters of independent cinema in Europe and the United States,” he says.