Documentary distribution has rapidly changed from an era of expansion to shrinking opportunities. It’s become a cliche that if a film isn’t about crime or celebrity, then the streamers are likely to pass. Seeking an alternative to this new normal comes Jolt, a boutique video-on-demand service that works with filmmaking teams to steer niche audiences to independent films.
The platform launched in March, led by investors who have a track record funding independent documentaries at Impact Partners. This month, they have their highest profile title yet in The Bibi Files, by Oscar-winning producer Alex Gibney and director Alexis Bloom. The film draws upon a vast trove of leaked footage to explore the corruption investigation into Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. When The Bibi Files was announced as a work-in-progress at the Toronto International Film Festival, Netanyahu sought a court order to block the screening. That motion failed and now the finished film is on Jolt coinciding with a limited theatrical run and with Netanyhu finally going to trial after years of delays.
I spoke to CEO Tara Hein-Phillips about entropy in the film distribution landscape and how Jolt provides a fresh approach for entrepreneurial filmmakers.
Now until January 1, Doc Voices readers can access Jolt for a discounted price of $5 per film using the Pure Nonfiction x Jolt page, where you can watch The Bibi Files, Gaucho Gaucho, Hollywoodgate, No One Asked You and Zurawski v Texas.
Click the podcast above to listen or scroll on to read an edited version of my conversation with Tara.
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