How Film Distributors Can Win at SEO

In the world of film, a digital presence is just as crucial as the silver screen. Film websites serve as the virtual ticket booths to a movie’s success, and optimising these online platforms is essential for attracting and growing the right audience. 

Film distributors SEO (Search Engine Optimisation) is an unmissable step in website management to ensure film content rises to the fore in search engine results, delivering maximum organic discovery and bolstering the best possible paid strategy. 

Below are the 5 steps to deliver success for your film marketing website.

1. Keywords, Keywords, Keywords

Keywords are the foundation of effective SEO. Utilising popular keywords throughout the copy on your website, in each page title and description will mean your content reaches audiences who are searching for – and looking to discover – the content you’re offering.

Keywords in one of Altitude's articles
  • Research the popular terms used that are relevant to your release (think film titles, actors, directors, genres). 
  • Include these terms in your copy, in image descriptions, page titles and page descriptions.
  • Regularly monitor what searches are driving traffic to your website, using Google Search Console or similar tools and modify your copy to support these searches.

2. Keep It Fresh

Fresh content will give your search ranking a boost so always ensure to keep your website updated.

  • Plan to consistently update your website with fresh, relevant, and engaging content.
  • Automation tools can support this, for example updating your showtime and streaming availability. 
  • Think of what will attract film fans, including exclusive cast and crew interviews, behind-the-scenes features, and more. 
  • Content that tells the story behind the movie not only captivates your audience but also ranks well in search engine results.
showtimes altitude
Whitney showtimes on Altitude's website

3. Think Mobile

Google and other search engines prioritise mobile optimised websites in their ranking algorithm. Film distributors SEO also includes responsive design that makes your content readable on all devices.

  • Responsive design ensures that your content looks great and functions smoothly on various devices, from smartphones to tablets and desktops. 
  • A mobile-responsive site not only enhances user experience but also boosts your SEO.
Mobile-optimized page on Altitude's website

4. User Experience (UX)

A user-friendly website is the key to success. Google considers user experience as a ranking factor. It is therefore a part of film distributors SEO.

  • Make sure your film website loads quickly.
  • Aim for easy navigation, just like on Altitude’s Mean Streets page.
  • Avoid annoying pop-ups, autoplaying audio or anything that disrupts a smooth user experience. 
  • For film marketing websites, high quality images and video are a priority but always ensure that these don’t negatively impact page load speeds by using optimisation tools.
Showtimes widget - where to watch

A positive user experience not only encourages users to stay but also reduces bounce rates, signalling to search engines that your content is valuable.

5. The Meta-Details

Each webpage has meta tags used in search engine management. These include:

  • Meta Title (the title of your page as it appears in search and on your browser tab 
  • Meta description (a description of your page as it appears in search results and in social media sharing) 
  • Image meta descriptions (these are another great way to boost your site in search so don’t skip this step- add a title and description using relevant keywords to all of your images.)

The best way to optimise this is to ensure you always use relevant keywords and make them appealing to users. A well-optimised meta description can encourage users to click through to your website.

6. Backlinks and Promotion

Backlinks from reputable websites are a powerful signal to search engines that your content is credible and relevant.

  • Collaborate with film-related influencers, bloggers, and industry websites to build quality backlinks. 
  • Leverage social media and email marketing to promote your film website. 
  • The more your content is shared, the more likely it is to gain visibility in search engine results.

7. Technical Film Distributors SEO

Technical SEO is the backbone of a well-optimised website. This includes ensuring that your site has a secure HTTPS connection, improving site speed, optimising image sizes, and fixing broken links. These technical aspects might not be visible to users, but they significantly impact your search engine ranking.

The Importance of SEO Strategies for Film Websites

A strong online presence can be the difference between box office success and obscurity. SEO for film websites is not just a marketing strategy; it’s an essential tool for connecting with your audience, increasing visibility, and building anticipation for your projects. 

By carefully implementing the strategies outlined above, filmmakers and studios can ensure that their online platforms become the premier destinations for film enthusiasts and drive their productions to new heights of success in the digital age.

usheru’s Content Discovery Platform is what can help you started with your SEO distributors journey.

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