Gigantic Prospect for Small Films

“Independent films in theaters is over,” says former Miramax and IFC executive Mark Lipsky, “and by independent, I mean really independent -- films without stars, known directors, banked reviews from A-list critics, and money in the bank. Because those films are not independent, they just aren’t.” Lipsky moved from Arizona where he was working on a start-up (“at a really bad time to work on a start-up”) to become president of the New York-based Gigantic Releasing, which constitutes Gigantic Pictures, Gigantic Music and now Gigantic Digital, the newly launched website and the first of its kind to distribute commercial-free, first-run films over the Internet. Although there are other websites that stream films, Gigantic Releasing is different in that it offers exceptional quality viewing of films online alongside their theatrical release. “It’s a completely unique situation,” says Lipsky, a tallish and lovely-looking fellow with calm eyes and palpable intent.

The intent behind Gigantic Digital is for people everywhere to be able to see real independent films online, anytime, anywhere (with a computer) for $2.99 a pop. “It’s like buying a movie ticket but not having to pay $12 for popcorn, and you can watch the movies as much as you want for three days.” Independent films used to be able to find their audiences in small theaters without the burdensome expectation of doing huge box office numbers. But that’s all changed, and again, Lipsky emphasizes the difference between an “independent” film (“Juno cost $15 million just to market! That’s insane! That’s not an independent film.”) and an independent film made by the next Jarmusches and Lees. “In an atmosphere where it’s never been easier to make a film, it’s never been harder to get the good ones seen. Gigantic Digital is going to change everything.”

For free ticket to check out the films currently streaming on Gigantic Digital (Year of the Fish and The Doorman), send a request to: marketing@giganticnyc.com -- and make your own damn popcorn!