But it's not just the releases themselves that push these films to financial success, it's the way they're released. Fox Searchlight doesn't rush their films into theaters, and their movies certainly don't open with a bang and then fade quickly. The way they make money is more of a slow-burn. Fox Searchlight loves to keep their films in limited release for a while, before launching them into wider play. Sideways sat in limited release for a whopping 14 weekends before playing in over 1,000 theaters. Little Miss Sunshine played in limited release for four weekends, and Juno's theater count stayed low for three. Slumdog Millionaire hasn't yet played in more than 614 theaters, and it's been out for eight weeks. Why does this make sense? Well, by keeping these movies in limited release, Fox Searchlight assures that buzz will percolate and venue averages will remain high, which persuades other theater owners to want the film playing in their own theater. Thus, when the film is ready to expand, there are many people who want to play it. But Fox Searchlight doesn't stop there. Once their films initially move into wide release, they often continue to expand into more and more theaters. In fact, Juno increased its theater count six weekends in a row! After that, it's a long road of small drops on way to profitability and awards show success.
And now to end this veritable love letter to Fox Searchlight, a suggestion: Please put Slumdog Millionaire into wide release. Everyone who sees this movie loves it, it has already been a great box office performer, and it's winning awards. It's been in 600 theaters for long enough, and you should strike while the iron's hot! Start increasing its theater count, and watch the money roll in. Honestly, I am not going to be satisfied until this awesome film grosses at least $75 million. But I'm sure you already know that and are planning a major expansion. Otherwise, I'm taking back everything I've written.
Article comments
1 - Arlo J. Wiley
Yes, I've admired Fox Searchlight these past few years; their movies are usually top-notch, and they know how to work 'em.
Though, and this might break your heart, I did not care for Slumdog Millionaire. ;-)
2 - Shannon Howard
Doesn't Miramax also have a reputation for holding a monopoly over the Academy voters?
3 - Grady Smith
Arlo: it's okay, I'll forgive you, even if I don't understand how that's possible...
Shannon: I think you're right about Miramax, but this is Hollywood, where trends change with a snap of the fingers, and Fox Searchlight has been rocking the Academy for the past five years.