This Webinar is now archived and ready for download.

The Blair Witch Project became one of the most profitable films of all time by making the Internet part of the story, creating a captive, rapt audience before the film was even in theaters. Ten years later, social-media platforms like Facebook and Twitter are hugely influential and traditional distribution channels have foundered. Shouldn't it be time for filmmakers to leverage social media to build new audiences and take control of their own distribution destiny?

But it's not that simple. Cheap digital cameras and DIY desktop tools means there are now more filmmakers than ever looking for innovative ways to grab eyeballs online. And no matter how good your movies might be, that makes it hard for you to stand out from the crowd, let alone build a Twitter following.

Studio has invited a panel of filmmakers and marketing professionals to talk through the tough issues, speaking from experience to give you the information you need to build an effective presence on Twitter and elsewhere — and to avoid the mistakes that make you look like just another starving filmmaker desperate for one more pair of eyeballs.

At this Webinar, you will learn about:

• The untold story of The Blair Witch Project's blockbuster marketing plan
• How to extend your film's narrative into social media
• How platforms like Facebook and Twitpic can become part of your plan
• How to sell your work without looking like a salesperson
• Using Twitter to increase traffic to your Web site
• Monitoring what's being said about your work online
• Who to follow and how to attract followers
• Strategies for becoming part of online conversations
• Reaching out to the media — including the critics
• Connecting with collaborators
• Using Twitter tools and resources
• The difference between self-promotion and conversation
• What gimmicks work — and which ones don't

You’ll have the unique opportunity to hear from communicators who are experts in using Twitter and social media in the entertainment space. You'll hear about the dos and don'ts, you'll learn what has worked for others and why, and you'll get ideas for actionable strategies that can be applied to your own career. The webinar includes a live Q&A with all of the speakers, so come loaded with questions.

Speakers:

Mike Monello (@mikemonello) Co-founder and executive creative director, Campfire Co-producer, The Blair Witch Project www.campfirenyc.com

Erik Proulx (@eproulx) Freelance ACD/copywriter/employment activist/social entrepreneur Creator/Writer/Executive Producer, Lemonade www.lemonademovie.com www.pleasefeedtheanimals.com

Ian Schafer (@ischafer) CEO, Deep Focus interactive marketing agency www.deep-focus.net

Paul Klinke and Tobin Nageotte (@37click) Producers, Sony Computer Entertainment Co-founders, thirtysevenclick thirtysevenclick.com

Moderator: Bryant Frazer (@Bryant_Frazer) Editor-in-Chief, Film & Video www.filmandvideomagazine.com