Navigating the New Landscape of Film Distribution

The Tennessee Film & Entertainment Webinar Series is gearing up for an enlightening session titled "Navigating the New Landscape of Film Distribution." This webinar, part of the ongoing series, offers a unique opportunity for industry enthusiasts to delve into the dynamic landscape of film distribution. Expert panelists will bring diverse perspectives to the discussion and attendees can expect insights from professionals in distribution and marketing, programming, directing, and entertainment law. The session aims to provide valuable information and perspectives on navigating the evolving landscape of film distribution, making it a must-attend for those looking to stay abreast of the latest trends and strategies in the industry.

Moderator:

Sarah Finklea has worked to bring films to audiences for over two decades, distributing hundreds of classic, independent, and international films to theaters, TV, streaming, and home video. She has worked with Janus Films, the Criterion Collection, Cowboy Pictures, and as an independent consultant here in Nashville. She currently manages sales operations at Blueprint.Inc.

Panelists:

Kayla Myers is a film programmer, writer,  and filmmaker. Currently, she works as a programmer and Black Creators Forum Manager at Indie Memphis. She’s previously held roles as the Series Producer for The DocYard in Cambridge, MA, and as a Features Programmer for the 2021 and 2022 San Francisco Documentary Festivals. In addition, Kayla’s writing has appeared in Filmmaker Magazine, Them., and Vox Magazine. She is passionate about intersectional feminist practices within film, making films more accessible to those not living in large filmmaking centers, and developing audiences with a thoughtful, community-centered approach.

Kirk T. Schroder is a seasoned legal expert specializing in Media & Entertainment Law, with his practice based in the District of Columbia and Virginia. Kirk is a former Chair of the American Bar Association's Entertainment & Sports law section and he is a Co-Editor of the "The Essential Guide To Entertainment Law". Kirk has carved out a niche in film and television transactional work, including aspects of financing, development, production, and distribution. His expertise also extends to representing literary authors and handling matters related to merchandise and licensing. Kirk's notable work includes leading high-profile cases and negotiations. He has served as counsel for Hulu's television deal for Beth Macy's book “Dopesick” and negotiated literary and documentary film matters for James Nestor, including his appearance on the BBC's “Maestro” series. In addition, he has been instrumental in negotiating successive MTV series renewals and production matters for Viacom’s MTV stars Catelynn and Tyler Baltierra. He is a frequent national lecturer on entertainment law topics

Neal Block is Head of Distribution and Marketing for Magnolia Pictures. Over his 18-year tenure at the company, Block has overseen the releases of RBG, I Am Not Your Negro, John Lewis: Good Trouble, and many others. Prior to Magnolia, Block worked for Samuel Goldwyn Films and Palm Pictures.

Ricky Burchell, Director,  has a more than 20-year career in the entertainment industry. He began his career as a performer but soon went on to host, and produce his own hip-hop TV show, “Mixx Master’s Lounge” which was seen in 120 million homes worldwide. Over the years, he worked with Billboard charting artists Kurtis Blow, Lecrae, NewsBoys, Earnest Pugh, Struggle Jennings, Jelly Roll, and many more. Producing music and/or music videos. Ricky also partnered with Abingdon Press where he wrote and produced over 100 children’s songs, 20 music videos, and 7 short films and documentaries. Ricky has also written and directed a large number of commercials as well as writing, performing, and producing the theme song for ESPN2 show “King of the Strip”.

In 2015, Ricky wrote and directed his first feature-length film, “Where is Good?”. With a small budget and a local cast, the film gained international success after signing a worldwide distribution deal which included Netflix Brazil, streaming services throughout Latin America and Africa and a Walmart Distribution deal. The film won an award for Best Editing and Best Leading Actress from the Faith Film Festival. He currently has 4 films out that he has written and directed including “3 Strangers”, “AM Radio” starring Omar Gooding, “One More Dream” and "Anybody".  He has 3 films currently in post-production scheduled to be released in 2024. “AM Radio” was featured at the Las Vegas Film Festival where it was awarded “Best Actor” for Omar Gooding’s performance.

The Arts & Business Council's TN Film & Entertainment Webinar Series is made possible by support from the Tennessee Entertainment Commission. CreateTN.com