Sales Agent
Company that licenses film distribution rights to buyers across international territories.
Definition
A sales agent represents films to potential distributors and buyers worldwide. They attend film markets (Cannes, AFM, Berlin), pitch to buyers, negotiate deals, and manage contract execution. Sales agents typically receive 10-25% commission on sales plus marketing expenses.
Sales agents are essential for independent films seeking international distribution without studio infrastructure.
Why It Matters
Sales agents provide access to global buyers that producers cannot reach independently. Their relationships, market knowledge, and negotiation expertise maximize distribution value.
Choosing the right sales agent significantly impacts a film's commercial success and revenue.
Examples in Practice
A sales agent pre-sells a thriller to 12 territories at Cannes, financing 60% of budget.
A prestigious sales agent attachment increases a project's credibility with potential financiers.
A sales agent negotiates holdbacks to protect streaming deals from early theatrical releases.