Direct-to-video releases are films that are not released in theaters, often due to cost-saving measures or distribution disputes. They are not necessarily inferior, and some excellent productions are released directly to the video market. Direct-to-video releases can also be distributed through the internet. They are commonly used for sequels, low-budget films, or independent productions that cannot guarantee distribution. Television networks may also use this technique for canceled shows or supplemental material. Sometimes, a planned direct-to-video release may end up in theaters.
A direct-to-video release is a theatrical release that isn’t released theatrically. There are a variety of reasons why a studio or producer chooses to release a title this way, ranging from a desire to reduce costs to disputes over distribution contracts. People sometimes use “direct-to-video” derogatorily, to suggest that such releases are inferior, but in reality many excellent productions are released directly to the video market without spending time in the theatre.
Videotapes are in decline, leading some people to refer to direct-to-video releases as “direct-to-DVD,” referring to the most popular distribution format. Some filmmakers have also used the internet to distribute their content, in a direct-to-internet version that allows people to stream content or pay to download content.
One of the most common reasons for choosing a direct-to-video release is that it tends to be less expensive than a theatrical release. Distribution contracts for cinemas can become quite complex and very expensive, requiring supportive marketing campaigns and the costly duplication and distribution of the physical film used in screenings. Sequels, low-budget films, or films that dislike large audiences can be released direct-to-video to save costs.
Some productions cannot guarantee distribution, a common problem for independent filmmakers. Lack of affiliation with a major studio can make it very difficult to get a film to theaters, which is why filmmakers fiercely compete at events like the Sundance Film Festival to get their films from major theatrical distributors. A producer may also make a conscious choice to avoid the politics and complexities of film distribution for fear it will undermine production.
Television networks have also been known to use direct-to-video technique for canceled shows. In some cases, shows that don’t perform well on air end up having very strong DVD sales, allowing the network to recoup their production costs. Direct-to-video releases can also be used for supplemental material such as bonus material and spin-offs that the network does not want to air. Many networks specifically design content like this for Internet distribution, luring fans to the network’s website with promises of deleted scenes, webisodes, and other content that doesn’t air.
Sometimes, a planned direct-to-video release will wind up in theaters. Studios can change their minds and decide that a film is viable theatrically, or a film can acquire a distribution deal at the last minute, allowing it to play theatrically. Sometimes, these last-minute suspensions pave the way for big hits.
Protect your devices with Threat Protection by NordVPN
