Exploring the Hidden Gems: 2025 Popcorn List Pop Up Series Unveils Undistributed Films

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Self-reliant Films Gain Wider Exposure Through ‘The Popcorn List’ Screening Initiative

A Novel Program Aims to Connect Undistributed Films With Audiences, Offering a Unique Model for Promotion and Revenue Sharing.

September 5,2024

The Popcorn List,a curated selection of critically acclaimed but previously undistributed feature films,is expanding its reach with a series of pop-up screenings across the United States. Entering its second year, the initiative will host both theatrical and virtual events starting September 2nd, showcasing eight standout films selected by festival programmers. This move represents a significant step forward for The Popcorn List, aiming to provide a platform for these deserving works.

A Collaborative Approach to Film Distribution

The Pop Up series will feature seven films from first-time directors and six helmed by women, encompassing three documentaries and five fiction features. A core tenet of the program is its “collective and transparent model,” where filmmakers and partners collaborate on a unified promotional strategy spearheaded by Product of Culture. This approach not only boosts visibility for individual projects but also elevates the entire Popcorn List catalog.

Beyond a standard 50/50 box office split, a portion of each ticket sale will contribute to a filmmaker solidarity pool, distributed equally among all participating titles, fostering a supportive surroundings within the independent film community. Filmmakers retain full ownership of their respective films.

Feature	Director	Genre	Screening Format
Ashima	Kenji Tsukamoto	Documentary	Virtual
Brooklyn,Minnesota	Jessica Blank,Erik jensen	Fiction	virtual
Clocked	Noah Salzman	Documentary	Virtual
Everything You have Is yours	Tatyana tenenbaum	Documentary	Virtual
if That Mockingbird Don’t Sing	Sadie Bones	Fiction	In Person
New Wave	Elizabeth Ai	Documentary	In Person
the everything Pot	Sherise Dorf	Fiction	In Person
To Kill a Wolf	Kelsey Taylor	fiction	Virtual

“For any film in today’s landscape,finding new audience touchpoints is essential – and working collaboratively to support each others’ films is an exciting model,” stated Lela Meadow-Conner and Kathy Susca of The Film Collaborative. “We hope this will be a brand building possibility for them as storytellers, and exciting for audiences who are looking for new stories, now and in the future.”

Screening Locations and Access

In-person screenings are scheduled at theaters in Philadelphia (cinéSPEAK), Milwaukee (The Downer Theatre), Iowa City (FilmScene), Charlotte (The Independent Picture House), San Francisco (The Roxie Theater), Birmingham (Sidewalk Cinema), Seattle (SIFF Film Center), Traverse City (The State Theatre), Akron (The Nightlight Cinema), and Los Angeles (Vidiots) between September 2nd and 28th. All screenings will feature pre-recorded introductions from filmmakers and the festival programmers who championed their work.Virtual screenings will take place September 25-30 via Eventive, also including pre-recorded introductions.

The Growing Importance of Independent Film Support

The success of initiatives like The Popcorn List highlights a growing demand for diverse and innovative storytelling. According to a 2023 report by the Independent Film & Television Alliance (IFTA), independent film production rebounded strongly post-pandemic, with a 37% increase in overall production volume. However, distribution remains a significant challenge for many independent filmmakers. Programs that facilitate access to audiences, like the pop-up series, are vital for the sustainability of the independent film ecosystem.As streaming services increasingly dominate the film landscape, curated events and community-focused distribution models offer a valuable alternative for cinephiles seeking unique and thought-provoking cinematic experiences.

Pro Tip: Support independent cinemas and film festivals in your area. they play a crucial role in showcasing new voices and fostering a vibrant film community.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is The popcorn List?

The Popcorn List is a curated selection of acclaimed, but previously undistributed, feature films recommended by film festival programmers.

How can I access the virtual screenings?

Virtual screenings will be available September 25-30 via Eventive.

What is the filmmaker solidarity pool?

A portion of ticket sales will be allocated to a pool and distributed equally amongst all filmmakers participating in the program.

Where are the in-person screenings taking place?

In-person screenings will be held at theaters in ten cities across the United States,ranging from Philadelphia to Los Angeles.

Is there a way to support The Popcorn List directly?

tax-deductible donations can be made through TFC’s Fiscal Sponsorship program here.

What are your thoughts on the increasing need for alternative distribution models for independent films? Do you think pop-up screenings are an effective way to reach new audiences?