The Business Behind the Big Screen with John Moss
In this episode of Behind the Scenes Oklahoma, we had the pleasure of speaking with John Moss, the founder of Firebook Entertainment, a pioneering international film distribution company based in Tulsa, Oklahoma. With a focus on genre films, including horror, sci-fi, and thrillers, Firebook is making a mark on the global film industry. John shares insights into the intricacies of film distribution, the path to profitability, and how Firebook is growing the film industry in Oklahoma.
Understanding Film Distribution: From Production to Global Sales
Firebook Entertainment is not a production company but a distribution company, meaning they step in once a film is completed, handling its release and sales across the globe. John explains the two main strategies for releasing a film: the festival circuit and theatrical distribution. While blockbuster films can skip the festival route and go straight to theaters, independent films often rely on festivals to generate buzz and attract distributors.
Once a film finishes its festival run, distribution companies like Firebook work to sell the film to various territories around the world. With 44 key film territories worldwide, these deals allow distributors to sell films into theaters, stream them, or otherwise get them in front of an audience. Firebook’s distribution network even extends to theatrical releases, giving them control over films that might otherwise struggle to secure a good deal.
Watch the full episode on YouTube.
The Genre Film Advantage: Why Firebook Focuses on Horror and Sci-Fi
John’s strategy of focusing on genre films like horror and sci-fi is driven by a simple business principle: smaller budgets mean higher profit margins. As he explains, “The path to profitability is easier for these films because their budgets are smaller, making it simpler to recoup the costs and start generating returns.”
Firebook typically deals with films that have a budget under $5 million, especially those without A-list talent. This allows for quicker, more attainable returns. However, John also warns against the "dead zone" in the film industry—films with budgets between $5 million and $10 million. These projects are expensive enough that they require big-name actors to make a return, but not big enough to guarantee a major cast. This makes these projects more risky in terms of profitability.
The Complexities of Financing and Sales
Film financing and distribution can seem like a complex puzzle, and John is the puzzle master. To minimize the financial risk, Firebook often partners with producers in other countries, utilizing tax incentives and rebates to reduce the production cost. By strategically placing portions of a film’s production in different countries, Firebook can secure up to 70% of the film's budget through these incentives.
Despite this, the success of each film still depends heavily on external factors such as timing, market conditions, and even global politics. "A lot of it is luck," John admits. The market’s reception of a film can be unpredictable, and as John points out, "The timing has to be right for each project."
Supporting Oklahoma’s Film Community
Firebook’s impact extends beyond global film distribution. John and his team are committed to supporting Oklahoma’s growing film industry by fostering local talent and providing internship opportunities on sets. “It’s all about getting people into the industry, giving them opportunities to grow and learn,” John explains.
Moreover, the company is working to expand Oklahoma's film footprint by helping local filmmakers and actors find success. “We want to make sure that Oklahoma talent gets the opportunities they deserve,” says John.
The Future of Film in Oklahoma
As Firebook continues to make waves in the international film market, John sees a bright future for Oklahoma's film industry. However, he emphasizes the need for greater state support, especially in terms of tax incentives and rebates. “To remain competitive, we need to up the ante,” he says, noting that neighboring states like Texas are investing billions into their film industries.
Oklahoma has the potential to be a major player in the film world, but it needs to increase its financial incentives to match the competition. John’s vision is to continue building relationships with global partners while helping to cultivate a thriving film scene right here in Oklahoma.
For more insights into Firebook Entertainment and to follow their exciting projects, visit their website at firebookentertainment.com. Stay tuned for more updates on how Firebook is shaping the future of film in Oklahoma and beyond!
