Differences between Independent and Mainstream films

Independent films

• Not produced in major film studios.
• They are different styles that regular films but tend to have similar content.
• Tend to be distributed straight to DVD but sometimes are shown in smaller cinemas
• Usually attract a niche audience
• They have a smaller budget compared to mainstream films.
• They are not marketed as much as mainstream films and audiences are usually told about the film by word of mouth.

Mainstream films

• Widely released in cinemas
• Only in cinemas for a short period of time
• After being in cinema they are released for home use
• They have a lot of marketing and are highly commercialised so the attract a bigger audience
• The films storyline will attract a wide variety of audiences.
• Usually cast A-list actors/actresses so they attract a bigger audience.
• Usually film in popular and well-known location as they have high budgets.
• Distribute and market their film using the TV and Internet.