The Ultimate List of All the Short Film Distribution Companies in 2024

For filmmakers, short film distribution is a vital step toward showcasing their work to a global audience, reaching new fans, and even generating revenue. However, finding the right distribution company can take time and effort given the range of options available. This guide covers some of the most reputable short film distributors worldwide, detailing what each offers and how they can help you get your film seen on TV, streaming platforms, and in-flight entertainment.

Top Film Distribution Companies to Amplify Your Short Film’s Reach in 2024

Whether you're an award-winning director or an emerging filmmaker, these companies offer the support and distribution channels needed to expand your film’s reach and impact. Here’s the ultimate list of distribution companies to consider in 2024.

1. Synapse TV (Brazil)

• Website: Synapse TV

• Specialization: Distributes short films (5 to 25 minutes) across all genres, requiring English subtitles.

• Presence: Frequently participates in film festivals, including Clermont-Ferrand, Cannes, MIPTV, and MIPCom.

• Contact:

  • Address: Rua Benjamin Batista 34/302, 22461-120 Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

  • Email: Julio Worcman, President - jworcman@synapse-brazil.com; Joao Worcman, Director of Development - joaoworcman@synapsedigital.com.br

2. Ouat Media (Canada)

• Website: Ouat Media

• Specialization: Acquires and distributes short films across various genres, with a focus on global reach.

• Contact:

  • Address: 2844 Dundas Street West, M6P 1Y7 Toronto, Canada

  • Email: Miguel Ortega, Acquisitions - miguel.ortega@ouatmedia.com; Kristine Estorninos, Head of Distribution - kristine.estorninos@ouatmedia.com

3. Ad Astra Films - Mix (France)

• Website: Ad Astra Films

• Specialization: Cannes-based distributor offering distribution for various genres of short films.

• Contact:

  • Address: 84, avenue de Lattre de Tassigny, 06400 Cannes, France

  • Email: Sébastien Aubert, Deputy Director - sales@adastra-films.com

4. Agence du Court-Métrage - The Short Film Agency (France)

• Website: Agence du Court-Métrage

• Specialization: Distributes short films up to 59 minutes across all genres, with a regular presence at major festivals.

• Contact:

  • Address: 2, rue de Tocqueville, 75017 Paris, France

  • Email: Philippe Germain, Executive Director - p.germain@agencecm.com

5. Premium Films (France)

• Website: Premium Films

• Specialization: Distributes short films (10 to 30 minutes) worldwide, excluding experimental films. Requires English subtitles.

• Contact:

  • Address: 130, rue de Turenne, 75003 Paris, France

  • Email: Olivier Heitz, Short Film Acquisitions - olivier.heitz@premium-films.com

6. Interfilm Berlin (Germany)

• Website: Interfilm Berlin

• Specialization: Distributes short films up to 30 minutes, with a preference for films around 20 minutes, across all genres.

• Contact:

  • Address: Tempelhofer Ufer 1A, 10961 Berlin, Germany

  • Email: Tillmann Allmer, Head of Distribution - tillmann@interfilm.de

7. Kurzfilm Agentur Hamburg E.V. (Germany)

• Website: Kurzfilm Agentur

• Specialization: Focuses on theatrical releases within Germany, Austria, and Switzerland for short films up to 10 minutes across all genres.

• Contact:

  • Address: Friedensallee 7, 22765 Hamburg, Germany

  • Email: Axel Behrens, Communication - verleih@shortfilm.com

8. Shorts TV/Shorts International (UK)

• Website: Shorts TV

• Specialization: A global network for short films, offering a mix of drama, comedy, animation, and documentary. Works with film markets and festivals worldwide.

• Contact:

  • Address: 6-8 Luke Street, EC2A 4XY London, UK

  • Email: Simon Young - s.young@shorts.tv; Chris Tidman - c.tidman@shorts.tv

9. Network Ireland Television (Ireland)

• Website: Network Ireland Television

• Specialization: Focuses on short films and independent content from Ireland and around the world, offering broadcast, cable, and digital platform distribution.

• Contact:

  • Address: 36 Merrion Square, Dublin, D02 RY62, Ireland

  • Email: sadhbh@network-irl-tv.com

10. SND Films (Netherlands)

• Website: SND Films

• Specialization: Distributes short fiction and animated films (5 to 15 minutes). Active at festivals like Clermont-Ferrand.

• Contact:

  • Address: P.O. Box 15703, 1001 NE Amsterdam, Netherlands

  • Email: Sydney Neter, Executive Director - info@sndfilms.com

11. Marvin & Wayne (Spain)

• Website: Marvin & Wayne

• Specialization: Based in Barcelona, this distributor focuses on Spanish and Latin American short films, emphasizing festival strategy and international sales.

• Contact:

  • Address: Calle Sant Joan de Malta 154, Bajos, 08018 Barcelona, Spain

  • Email: info@marvinwayne.com

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make money from distributing my short film?

Yes, certain distribution platforms offer monetization through ad revenue sharing, pay-per-view, and subscription models, allowing filmmakers to generate income from their work.

Should I submit my short film to multiple distribution platforms?

This depends on each platform’s exclusivity policy. Some distributors may allow you to submit to multiple platforms simultaneously, while others might require exclusivity, so be sure to review terms carefully.

Are film festivals important for short film distribution?

Film festivals are crucial for distribution, as they help build credibility, generate visibility, and attract the interest of potential distributors. Many short film distributors attend prominent festivals, such as Clermont-Ferrand, Cannes, and Berlinale, which can lead to wider distribution opportunities.

Strategic Multi-Platform Distribution: How Filmmaker Kaine Levy Expanded the Reach of The Seditionist

Filmmaker Kaine Levy employed a well-rounded, multi-platform approach to maximize the distribution and reach of his short film, The Seditionist. Levy began by releasing the film on YouTube and Film Shortage, leveraging these online platforms to build an initial audience and gain exposure in digital spaces. This first step allowed him to capture the attention of both casual viewers and dedicated short film enthusiasts, establishing a strong base of online support. Following this, Levy secured a distribution deal with Shorts TV, a global network known for showcasing short films. Through Shorts TV, The Seditionist reached a broader, more diverse audience and gained longevity in the film market. This multifaceted strategy allowed Levy not only to expand the film’s reach but also to enhance its relevance and accessibility well beyond its initial release, showcasing the potential of a carefully planned distribution path in today’s digital and broadcast landscape.

Expanding Your Short Film’s Audience

Leveraging these distribution companies can help filmmakers find the right platforms for their short films, expanding visibility, reach, and potential revenue. From specialized networks to festival-focused distribution strategies, the right mix of options can help filmmakers achieve a successful release across the global market.