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Distribution

Sales Agent

Definition

A person or company that represents a filmmaker's film to distributors and platforms, negotiating deals and securing placements. Sales agents typically attend film markets like Cannes, AFM, and Berlin to pitch films to international buyers. They charge a commission, usually 15% to 25% of revenue, and often secure minimum guarantees or licensing deals that a filmmaker could not negotiate alone.

Example

A sales agent pitches your horror film at the American Film Market and secures distribution deals for Germany, Japan, and the UK, each with a $10,000 minimum guarantee. Their 20% commission is $6,000 total across the three deals.

Related Terms

Read our in-depth guide: how to get sales agent at film festival

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