When your film doesn’t get into festivals, it’s not the end of the road. Self-distribution can still put your work in front of millions — if you prepare the right way.

Step 1: Pick Your Platform

Platform	Cost to Upload	Revenue Model	Notes
Tubi	Free (via aggregator)	Ad-supported (paid per view)	Wide reach, no upfront fee, needs aggregator like Filmhub
Plex	Free (via aggregator)	Ad-supported	Similar to Tubi, emerging indie-friendly platform
Vimeo On Demand	Monthly fee	You set the price	Full control, but you handle 100% of marketing
YouTube Rentals	Free to list	Revenue split with YouTube	Easy entry, built-in audience, discoverability matters
Amazon Video Direct	Discontinued for indie films	Use a distributor	Amazon now requires an approved distributor like BitMAX or Filmhub

Step 2: Legal Must-Haves Before You Upload

Deliverable	Why It Matters
E&O Insurance	May be required by distributors & platforms — protects from legal claims
Actor Releases	Every face on screen needs a signed agreement
Music Licenses	Sync + Master + Festival + Pass-through rights — all in writing
Work-for-Hire Agreements	Proves you own editor/composer/animator contributions
Chain of Title	Clear ownership documents from script to screen
Likeness Release	Critical if using crowds or social media clips
Trademark Clearance	Remove or clear logos/marks unless you have rights

⚠️ Note: Platforms don’t check your contracts. If someone files a takedown, your film can be removed — or worse.

Step 3: Marketing Basics

Ask yourself before launch:

• Do you have a trailer and poster ready?
• Do you have an email list or social following to drive views?
• Have you built a press kit or deck?
• Are you submitting to blogs, podcasts, or reviewers?
• Are you offering bonus content (behind-the-scenes, director’s cut, etc.)?

💡 Reminder: Self-distribution is not “upload and hope.” You need an audience before you go live.

Step 4: Optional Tools

• Filmhub – Distributes to Tubi, Plex, Apple TV, and more (rev-share model)
• BitMAX – Delivers to Amazon and other major streamers
• Mailchimp / ConvertKit – Build your fanbase through email
• Canva / PosterMyWall – Quick, professional marketing assets

Lex Nova Bonus Tip

“No deal” doesn’t mean “no shot.”
But your legal house and marketing plan need to be airtight — or your film will sit on a server with no views, no recoupment, and no reach.