The Movie Marketing & Distribution Podcast

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May 2026

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About the show

Each episode, Alex Stolz - usheru Head of Film - speaks to leaders in Movie Marketing and Distribution to discuss the trends, tools and strategies that are shaping the entertainment ecosystem. At usheru we are passionate about data, innovation & movie marketing and we have combined all of this knowledge into digital solutions that are transforming traditional film marketing.

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May 7, 20261 hr 12 min

Self-Releasing a Micro-Budget Feature on 1,000 Screens featuring Markian Tarasiuk

"Know how you're going to market your film from day one." Markian Tarasiuk, Director, Hunting Matthew Nichols How do you take a $275,000 independent film from a 12-day shoot to more than 1,000 cinema screens across North America? In this episode, Alex Stolz speaks with Markian Tarasiuk about the release strategy behind Hunting Matthew Nichols — a genre-bending true-crime-style horror film that bypassed the traditional distribution playbook and went directly to exhibitors. Markian breaks down the realities of self-distribution at scale, including: why the team turned down conventional distribution deals how they built their marketing strategy years before release creating an audience-driven campaign blending ARGs, social storytelling and organic engagement working directly with cinema chains and the Fithian Group the economics and pressures of theatrical releasing what filmmakers should understand about audience, conversion and theatrical today The conversation also explores the wider challenges facing independent film distribution, from discoverability and marketing spend to the shrinking window for theatrical word-of-mouth. A candid and practical discussion about what it really takes to release an independent film theatrically in 2026. Powered by usheru, helping film distributors connect audiences with the films they love: www.usheru.com About Markian Tarasiuk Markian Tarasiuk is a Ukrainian Canadian actor, director, and producer working across film and television. As an actor, his credits include Surface, Virgin River, Blue Skies, and There's Someone Inside Your House, with nominations from both the Canadian Screen Awards and UBCP/ACTRA. He made his feature directorial debut with Hunting Matthew Nichols, a genre-bending mystery-thriller that blends true crime and found footage. The film was independently produced and theatrically released widely across North America, positioning Tarasiuk as part of a new wave of filmmakers taking a hands-on approach to both storytelling and distribution. Through both his work on screen and behind the camera, he continues to develop projects that push genre and audience expectations. About Alex Stolz Alex Stolz is Founder of Future of Film and Head of Audience at usheru, working at the intersection of storytelling, audience and ownership. His background spans leading audience strategy at the BFI and developing data-driven approaches to audience growth across film and media.

March 5, 202636 min

Relevance, Authenticity and Boldness in Film Marketing featuring Linda Fiolka

What does it take to market films at scale in a fragmented, fast-moving landscape? In this episode of the Marketing & Distribution Podcast, Alex Stolz speaks with Linda Fiolka, Head of Marketing at Constantin Film, one of Germany's leading production and distribution companies operating across the full value chain, from development and production through to theatrical, streaming and world sales. Linda shares how Constantin approaches audience strategy, from early-stage script involvement to campaign execution across theatrical and digital. The conversation explores practical as well as big picture insights including: • Why trailers and posters still matter • How TikTok Spotlight is shaping fandom and discovery • The challenge of platform fragmentation • Community-building before and after release • The balance between data insight and gut instinct • Why being relevant, authentic and bold is the key to marketing success in 2026 Linda also reflects on marketing franchises and IP, working with Gen Z audiences, and the realities of driving awareness and conversion in today's attention economy. A practical and optimistic look at how a European independent, creative studio is navigating the evolving world of film marketing. About Linda Fiolka Linda Fiolka is Head of Marketing at Constantin Film, one of Germany's leading production and distribution companies. She joined the company in 2010 and completed a dual study programme in Business Administration with a focus on Marketing while building her career within the organisation. After several years working as a Product Manager, she was appointed Head of Marketing in 2022. Over the course of her career at Constantin Film, Linda has played a key role in the marketing campaigns for some of Germany's most successful and widely recognised titles, including the Fack Ju Göhte films, the Eberhofer series, and Das Kanu des Manitu, as well as the streaming and television productions Wir Kinder vom Bahnhof Zoo and Die Wannseekonferenz.

January 5, 202635 min

Data-Led Insights into the Oscar Bounce Featuring Stephen Follows

What actually happens to cinema screenings when a film receives an Oscar nomination or wins Best Picture? In this episode of the Marketing and Distribution Podcast, Alex Stolz welcomes back leading film industry analyst Stephen Follows to unpack usheru-backed research into the real impact of awards on theatrical exhibition. Drawing on multiple years of Best Picture data, the conversation examines how cinema screenings shift around Oscar nominations and the awards ceremony itself. Stephen explains why nominations tend to spread benefit across multiple films, while winning concentrates attention on a single title, creating a sharp but time-limited surge in screenings. Rather than treating the "Oscar bounce" as a simple marketing effect, the episode reframes awards as a confidence signal within a structured, human decision-making environment, where exhibitors operate under tight constraints and short booking windows. The discussion also explores why film size, release timing, and distributor readiness make such a difference, and why even with better data, awards season remains a high-stakes exercise in professional judgement rather than a predictable formula. An essential listen for distributors, exhibitors, and marketers navigating awards season in today's volatile theatrical ecosystem. To read Stephen's report head to https://stephenfollows.com/ About Stephen Follows Stephen Follows is a world-leading film industry analyst whose research has been featured in almost every major newspaper and magazine, including The New York Times, The Guardian, and The Times. He is a consultant for Guinness World Records and the chairman of the Central Film School. Stephen's expertise is sought by major Hollywood studios, and he has taught producers, filmmakers, and students around the world.

December 4, 202548 min

How to Score in Hollywood: Audience Insight, Data and the Evolution of Movie Marketing featuring Kevin Goetz and Bob Levin

In this episode, Alex is joined by two industry leaders with unparalleled insight into how films truly reach and resonate with audiences. Kevin Goetz, founder and CEO of Screen Engine ASI, and legendary studio marketer Bob Levin share the thinking, decision processes and real-world experience behind their new book How to Score in Hollywood. Together, they discuss the realities of greenlighting, the role of audience understanding in shaping creative and commercial choices, and how the relationship between marketing, research and storytelling has evolved. From capability testing and concept clarity to the challenges of releasing films in today's fragmented environment, Kevin and Bob offer a grounded and highly practical look at what drives film success. For anyone working in distribution, marketing or greenlightng, this conversation lifts the lid on how smarter decisions, stronger insights and clearer positioning help films connect and perform in an increasingly competitive marketplace. About Kevin Goetz Kevin Goetz is the founder and CEO of Screen Engine, a global leader in entertainment research and strategy serving all the major film studios, television networks, and streaming services. Throughout his career, he has been at the forefront of Hollywood, having personally tested over 5,000 film titles, where his work significantly impacts how movies are made, marketed, and released. In 2024, Kevin received American Cinematheque's prestigious Power of Cinema Award for his contributions to the film industry. He is the author of two books: the bestselling Audience•ology: How Moviegoers Shape the Films We Love (Simon & Schuster, 2021), offering an inside look at the power of audience pre-release movie test screenings, and How to Score in Hollywood (Simon & Schuster, November 2025), exploring the secrets to success in the movie business. Kevin brings his expertise to life as the host of the popular podcast, Don't Kill the Messenger (Apple Top 100), and continues educating the filmmaking community through keynote speeches and global presentations. He has produced twelve TV movies, including the Emmy-winning Wild Iris, and the 2026 documentary Children in the Fire. A member of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, the Television Academy, and the Producers Guild of America, Kevin also serves on the boards of six nonprofit organizations. He currently resides in Beverly Hills with his husband, Neil, a producer and former creative advertising executive, and their labradoodle, Kasha. About Bob Levin Bob Levin is a legendary movie marketing executive, having for over two decades holding the position of president, worldwide marketing at first Disney, then Sony and MGM. As well as being a key member of each studio's greenlight committee, he led the advertising, publicity, promotion, and research programs that helped launch hundreds of films, breaking numerous box office records throughout his career. Bob came out of semi-retirement when Kevin Goetz invited him to join Screen Engine/ASI as president and chief operating officer, where he has played a pivotal role in the company's continued success. His first book, How to Score in Hollywood, cowritten with Kevin, reveals the secrets to a movie's success and profitability, exploring how smart, data-driven decisions—from development to release—help filmmakers minimize risks and maximize returns. Bob lives in Los Angeles with his wife, Hilda Wynn.

November 4, 202543 min

Building a Sustainable Ecosystem for World Cinema featuring Meret Ruggle

How can independent distributors build a sustainable future for world cinema in an era of content saturation and shrinking public support? In this episode, Alex Stolz speaks with Meret Ruggle, Co-head of Trigon Film, the Swiss foundation and distributor that has spent more than three decades championing outstanding films from Latin America, Asia, Africa and Eastern Europe. Meret shares how Trigon has developed a holistic and community-driven model for distribution, combining theatrical releases, educational outreach and its own VoD platform Filmingo to extend the life of its films and connect directly with audiences. The conversation explores: Trigon's mission and the challenge of sustaining it amid the loss of key public funding Balancing cultural purpose with commercial realities Building direct relationships and trust with audiences The evolving tastes of Swiss arthouse viewers Lessons from a truly global approach to curation A candid and inspiring look at what it takes to keep diverse storytelling alive - and why community, innovation and creativity matter more than ever in the world of film marketing, distribution and audiences. About Meret Ruggle Meret Ruggle is Co-head of the Swiss film distributor trigon-film. The film foundation has been releasing carefully selected films from Latin America, Asia, Africa and Eastern Europe since 1988 and runs its own DVD edition and the video-on-demand platform filmingo. Meret has been working for trigon-film for the last 12 years and is also involved in the Swiss Film Fund visions sud est, both as a member of the Board and an expert in the selection committee. Since 2024 she is also member of the board of the Winterthur Short Film Days (kurzfilmtage.ch).

October 2, 202549 min

How Independent Films Can Thrive in a Changing Market featuring Jonathan Sadler

Independent filmmakers face a fast-evolving landscape: rising costs, fragmented audiences, and tougher routes to market. Yet with more platforms and opportunities than ever before, smart strategies can still give films the best chance to succeed. In this episode, Alex Stolz speaks with Jonathan Sadler — veteran marketer and author of Film Marketing and Distribution: An Independent Filmmaker's Guide. With over two decades of experience at companies including Universal Pictures, Momentum, Revolver, Warner Music and Arrow Films, Jonathan has worked on everything from Amélie and Lost in Translation to Donnie Darko and The Mummy. Together, they explore: Why casting is also a marketing decision The importance of product-market fit for indie films Practical steps filmmakers can take upstream to maximise audience reach How evolving distribution models create new opportunities This is an essential conversation for anyone who wants to understand how independent films can not just survive, but thrive, in today's marketplace. About Jonathan Sadler Jonathan Sadler has been marketing filmed entertainment content since 1998, first at Universal Pictures before spending over 5 years at Momentum Pictures as home entertainment marketing director. He headed up marketing at Revolver Entertainment, Warner Music International and Arrow Films. Sadler has launched or worked on the re-release of iconic films such as Amelie, American Beauty, The Mummy, Lost in Translation, Cinema Paradiso, Heathers, Anuvahood, Edie, The Hunt, Donnie Darko and Love is All You Need. Film Marketing & Distribution: An Independent Filmmaker's Guide is his first book.

September 11, 202549 min

From KNEECAP to FLOW: Inside Curzon's Marketing Playbook featuring Susie Bould

In this episode of the Marketing and Distribution Podcast, host Alex Stolz speaks with Susie Bould, Marketing Director at Curzon, the iconic UK exhibitor, distributor, and streaming platform. Susie shares how Curzon's unique ecosystem and real-time audience data shape its marketing strategy, enabling bold, authentic campaigns that connect deeply with film lovers. She reveals how Curzon successfully shifted its demographic toward a younger audience, the creative tactics behind indie breakouts like Kneecap and Flow, and how agility and authenticity are driving modern film marketing. Susie also speaks candidly about her experience becoming disabled early in her career, how it shaped her leadership and problem-solving skills, and her views on inclusion and progress in the film industry. From data-driven decisions to cheeky Oscar-winning posters, from immersive family cinema to ensuring accessibility, this conversation offers a rare, inspiring look into how one of the UK's oldest cinema brands and distributor continue to innovate and bring in audiences for original stories. About Susie Bould Susie is Marketing Director at Curzon with 19 years experience in film and entertainment. Formerly at Lionsgate, Think Jam and Hyperlaunch, she is passionate about strategy, creativity, and connecting audiences with great cinema.

July 31, 202538 min

Bringing International Actions Films to the US Market featuring Maxwell Riesberg

In this episode of the Marketing and Distribution Podcast, Alex Stolz is joined by Maxwell Riesberg, founder and CEO of Rascal (RSCL) Films – a bold new theatrical-first studio on a mission to bring international action films the big-screen releases they deserve. With a background that includes award-winning campaigns for A Quiet Place and Bumblebee, Maxwell shares how Rascal aims to become the 'A24 of action cinema' by combining cutting-edge AI dubbing technology, premium marketing, and a community-first approach to distribution. He explains how Rascal is building an identity-driven brand that speaks directly to underserved action fans across the U.S., why theatrical still matters, and how user-generated content is shaping the future of film marketing. A deep dive into genre strategy, branding, AI, and the power of building direct audience relationships — this is a must-listen for anyone shaping the future of film distribution. About Maxwell Riesberg Maxwell Riesberg is an accomplished producer, storyteller, and creative advertising professional, as well a seasoned entrepreneur with two successful exits. He is the Founder of RSCL, the first film distribution company devoted exclusively to action cinema. Built as a consumer-facing lifestyle brand, RSCL represents a radical rethinking of film distribution for the AI era, focused on building meaningful, direct relationships with audiences through exceptional international action films, innovative partnerships, and community building. Previously, Maxwell founded Paradise Creative, an advertising agency that specializes in theatrical trailers & digital campaigns for films and TV shows. Maxwell led the company from a two-person upstart into an industry powerhouse, cementing the agency's status as a go-to partner for clients including Amazon Studios, Warner Bros, Paramount, Sony Pictures, Hulu, HBO Max, Netflix, and many others. In addition to generating millions of box office dollars and delivering untold eyeballs to streaming titles, Maxwell & the Paradise team garnered many notable awards, including seven wins at the prestigious Clio Awards. Maxwell was Chief Executive Officer of the agency, until engineering his exit in 2021. Before that, Maxwell founded Lord Danger, a boutique commercial production company. He developed an in-demand roster of bold commercial directors, sourcing their campaigns and managing their career trajectories. Clients included Lawrence Lamont, Mike Diva, and Gille Klabin. Maxwell worked hand-in-hand as producer on his clients' works, from conceptualization all the way through post-production. Lord Danger created music videos for some of the biggest acts in music (Major Lazer, J. Cole, Steve Aoki, Big Sean, et al) as well as iconic commercials for house-name brands including 1-800-Contacts & Meow Mix. Maxwell was Co-Chief Executive Officer of the company, leading it to its acquisition in 2015. Maxwell's work has been written about extensively, including in The Hollywood Reporter, Ad Age, Fast Company, Deadline, Entertainment Weekly, Billboard, Indiewire, and CNN. And Eater LA. Maxwell loves to travel, both abroad but also to the furthest reaches of Los Angeles in search of its best food. When he's not on the road, he enjoys seeing (almost) every movie in theatres, appreciating dogs, rooting for Red Bull Formula 1 and (tragically) the Chicago Bears, and working on his tennis game.

July 10, 202543 min

Distributors on the Move: Insights from Europa Distribution's Groundbreaking Programme featuring Elin Boijens and Giulia Amadio

In this special episode, Alex Stolz is joined by Elin Boijens (Searchers, Netherlands) and Giulia Amadio (BIM Distribuzione, Italy), two participants in Distributors on the Move, Europa Distribution's pioneering professional exchange programme. Together, they reflect on the transformative impact of spending time embedded within each other's companies and exploring the day-to-day realities of film distribution in a different market. Giulia and Elin dive deep into the structural and strategic contrasts between the Italian and Benelux cinema landscapes—from differences in audience behavior, cinema-going habits, and marketing approaches to infrastructure realities, dubbing vs. subtitling preferences, and the role of distributor-owned cinemas. They discuss the challenge of attracting younger audiences in Italy, the power of subscription models in the Netherlands, and how local market conditions influence everything from trailer design to influencer collaborations. The episode also explores how each company tackled recent releases like The Apprentice and I'm Still Here, highlighting the nuances of political positioning, poster artwork choices, and physical event strategies. Listeners will get a behind-the-scenes look at what it means to build campaigns for niche vs. broad audiences, the growing importance of creator partnerships, and the limitations of using digital campaign data in territories without direct ticketing insight. Offering a compelling case for greater cross-border learning and cooperation, Elin and Giulia speak to the intangible but powerful benefits of the exchange—how simply being in another distributor's office and absorbing their team dynamics, workflows, and problem-solving approaches can inspire new thinking and lasting relationships. Through this process they suggest how shared challenges—and creative responses—can enrich the entire European film industry. About Elin Boijens Elin Boijens is the marketing coordinator of independent Benelux distributor Searchers. Her passion for promoting cinema started at various film theaters as well as children's film festivals and -education. Her background in exhibition provides her with valuable insights into the desires, needs, and obstacles for the moviegoing audience. As a young film marketing professional, Elin is thrilled to currently operate on the crossroads between arthouse and commercial films, challenged to reach an audience for the wide variety of films Searchers releases. About Giulia Amadio Giulia Amadio is a marketing officer at BIM Distribuzione, an independent film distributor based in Rome, Italy. With an academic background in cinema and filmmaking, she has cultivated her passion for film promotion through a variety of professional experiences at film festivals and creative agencies. These roles have provided her with a well-rounded perspective on the film industry, blending strategic communication with a strong visual sensibility. Giulia is passionate about working at the intersection of creativity and strategy, helping to bring distinctive and diverse films to an ever-growing, engaged audience. About Europa Distribution and Distributors on the Move Europa Distribution is the international association of independent film publishers and distributors, created in 2006. With around 130 leading independent distributors representing 32 countries in Europe and beyond, it acts as a network, a think tank and serves as the voice of the sector. Distributors on the Move is designed to offer marketing professionals who work in film distribution an immersive experience in a company abroad. The aim is to help creating personal and professional connections between distribution companies and their employees and to enhance international collaborations based on specific necessities.

June 10, 202541 min

Building a New Theatrical Marketplace featuring Jackie Brenneman

In this episode of The Marketing and Distribution Podcast, host Alex Stolz welcomes Jackie Brenneman — a trailblazer in the cinema industry and President & CEO of Attend Theatrical Marketplace, Jackie shares the journey behind ATTEND, the groundbreaking platform she helped launch to empower filmmakers and exhibitors through smarter, more transparent theatrical distribution. A founding partner of The Fithian Group, Jackie brings years of leadership in policy, legal advocacy, and industry innovation. Previously Executive Vice President and General Counsel at the National Association of Theatre Owners (NATO), she played a pivotal role during the pandemic, securing over $16 billion in relief for entertainment venues through the "Save Our Stages" program. Jackie also founded the Cinema Foundation, launched National Cinema Day in the U.S., and spearheaded the first-ever State of the Cinema Industry Report. Jackie and Alex dive deep into the structural challenges of theatrical distribution, the opportunity for growth through data and partnership, and why the cinema remains a powerful — and deeply human — space for storytelling. A must-listen for anyone passionate about the future of film, audience connection, and rewriting the rules of theatrical success. In the episode you'll discover: Why ATTEND is reimagining theatrical distribution with a "matchmaking" platform for filmmakers and exhibitors How data transparency and flexible deal terms can drive higher occupancy and lower distribution costs The role exhibitors can play in supporting mid-range films and rebuilding moviegoing habits What the creator economy means for the future of film marketing and distribution Lessons from launching National Cinema Day and securing historic government funding for theaters Why pricing, programming, and audience identity all matter more than ever in driving cinema attendance About Jackie Brenneman Jackie Brenneman is a founding partner of The Fithian Group, a global cinema industry consultancy that partners with the creative community, movie theater owners, leading research firms and innovators to bring custom, market-ready solutions to the marketplace. Jackie is also the President and CEO of the Attend Theatrical Marketplace, Inc., a revolutionary new theatrical marketplace developed by The Fithian Group that aims to grow the theatrical marketplace by increasing both the number and range of movies exhibitors can offer and helping them program and market the titles. Prior to forming The Fithian Group, Jackie was Executive Vice President and General Counsel to the National Association of Theatre Owners. In those roles, Jackie was a frequent speaker and panelist at global exhibition events on the importance of data and optimism in shaping the narrative and future of the industry. During the pandemic she achieved $16.1 billion for venue-specific "Save Our Stages" COVID relief grants, with specific grants targeted for movie theater owners. She also formed the Cinema Foundation and acted as its founding President. In that role, she implemented first-ever National Cinema Day in the United States and oversaw the release of the inaugural State of the Cinema Industry Report. Jackie has been awarded the Top Woman in Global Exhibition (2023), Industry Figure of the Year (2022) and Ken Mason Award for achievement in cinema (2022).