Tubi & Kickstarter Launch Initiative To Help Indie Films

In a remarkable development for independent filmmakers, Tubi, a free streaming platform owned by Fox, has teamed up with Kickstarter, the well-known crowdfunding service, to launch the FilmStream Collective initiative. This collaboration seeks to provide essential funding and distribution support to indie filmmakers, a sector that has faced significant challenges in recent years. As the landscape of specialty cinema evolves, this partnership arrives at a crucial time when many arthouse exhibitors are grappling with the pressures posed by streaming services.

The FilmStream Collective Fund will be exclusive to Kickstarter, aiming specifically to assist with “final or near-final projects.” This strategic focus means that funding will help filmmakers cover various post-production expenses such as editing, sound design, marketing, and other crucial finishing touches. Notably, the initiative will back ten films directly through pledges made to their active Kickstarter campaigns, bolstering their chances of reaching funding goals.

Moreover, finished films supported by this new fund will find a home on Tubi, which boasts an impressive 97 million monthly active users and over 10 billion hours of viewing as of 2024. This extensive reach presents an invaluable opportunity for indie filmmakers to gain visibility and connect with a wide audience. Beyond the initial ten films, the partnership will also introduce more Kickstarter-funded projects into Tubi’s collection on a rolling basis, expanding its catalog to showcase over twenty films spanning various genres.

Tubi has been leaning into original feature films as part of its strategy to diversify its content offering. During a recent keynote session at the Stream TV Show in Denver, Tubi’s chief of content, Adam Lewinson, addressed the skepticism surrounding free, ad-supported streaming. He emphasized that it’s entirely possible to create a premium viewing experience within a free platform, a sentiment that has driven Tubi’s growth and acceptance in the media landscape.

In her remarks, Kickstarter CEO Everette Taylor expressed that this partnership aligns perfectly with the company’s mission, which has been consistent since its inception in 2009. Taylor stated, “Fulfilling that mission means reaching beyond our core crowdfunding service and finding aligned partners like Tubi who want to collaborate on reducing the barriers that stand in the way of creatives bringing their ideas to life.” This sentiment speaks to the heart of the indie film struggle, where many talented creators find it challenging to secure the resources and visibility required to launch their projects.

On the other hand, Tubi CEO Anjali Sud pointed out that the platform aims to be “the home for the next generation of Hollywood talent.” Through initiatives such as the FilmStream Collective, Tubi is committed to enabling a diverse range of storytellers. Whether it’s introducing crowd-funded films, adapting popular novels from Wattpad into movies, or giving fans a role in green-lighting projects, the platform is actively expanding pathways for creators to engage with audiences.

The collaboration between Tubi and Kickstarter represents a significant movement within the indie film community. Many independent filmmakers often struggle with funding and distribution, which are critical to bringing their artistic visions to life. By pooling resources, Tubi and Kickstarter are creating a supportive ecosystem that empowers creators to overcome these challenges.

As audiences increasingly gravitate toward streaming platforms and on-demand content, Tubi stands out by cultivating a unique position in the market. This partnership not only signals a commitment to indie filmmakers but also elevates the quality and diversity of content available to viewers. By integrating crowd-funded projects into its offerings, Tubi ensures that diverse stories are told and that unique voices find their place in the film landscape.

Moreover, the initiative could potentially inspire other platforms and studios to recognize the importance of supporting indie filmmakers. As the traditional movie business continues to adapt to the rapid evolution of technology and audience preferences, partnerships like these can pave the way for more innovative funding models and distribution solutions.

In conclusion, the FilmStream Collective initiative by Tubi and Kickstarter has the potential to reshape the independent filmmaking landscape. By providing vital financial resources and a platform for visibility, this collaboration aims to nurture a new generation of storytellers. As both platforms work tirelessly to reduce barriers for creatives, they embody a renewed commitment to diversity, creativity, and empowerment, setting a precedent for future initiatives across the industry. With the support of Tubi and Kickstarter, indie filmmakers can confidently share their unique narratives with audiences worldwide.

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